We found Rossi’s adoption listing on the labradory.info forum.

At the time, we already had a whirlwind of a Labrador – our girl Mira.

But we called the shelter in Zielona Góra on November 10, 2014, curious to know more.

We scheduled a visit for the very next day – November 11 – to see how Mira, our kids, and Rossi would get along.

The fact that we lived way up in Chojnice, on the Baltic coast?

Just a good excuse for a family road trip.

And yes – we came back with a new passenger.

A shiny black one.

We chose adoption because shelters are full.

Especially with Labradors.

Everyone wants the perfect puppy from a breeder.

But shelter dogs? Not enough people choose them.

And honestly?

Adoption was easy.

We signed the paperwork, committed to neutering and chip registration, and that was it.

Rossi quickly became Rolnik (which means "Farmer" in Polish – fitting, you’ll see why).

He settled in at lightning speed.

The moment he crossed the threshold, he flopped his sweet, heavy body onto the couch…

and immediately started trying to charm our jealous Mira.

Two days of romantic chaos.

On the third?

Neutering.

By day seven, they were curled up together like long-lost littermates.

That’s when the chaos began –

Christmas ornaments vanished.

Pillows spontaneously exploded.

Meals mysteriously disappeared.

We love our giant goofball for his gentleness and patience.

But maybe most of all… we love him for the mischief.

For the stolen pork necks.

The shredded blankets.

The new coat sleeve that no longer exists.

The countless, eaten slippers.

For his big, soft eyes.

For being a total klutz.

For throwing himself into cuddles like his life depends on it.

For his massive grin when I fall off my chair and he can finally pounce.

For belly nibbles when he's overcome with joy.

And most of all – for making boredom impossible.

And the independence!

You should see him picking cherries straight off the tree.

Then apples. Then pears. Even redcurrants.

Radishes? Not his favorite. But he’ll try.

The butter dish on the counter? Consider it claimed.

Oh, and the arm-yanking on walks?

Let’s just say: I’ve never been in better shape.

I always recommend adoption. Always.

To me, it’s the best thing that can happen –

to a dog, and to a human.

These bonds are different. Deeper.

An adopted dog loves with his whole being.

(And if you need proof – I’ve got the bruises on my legs to show for it.)

Our next dog will also be adopted – no question.

We can't imagine life without Rolnik.

He’s the reason we finally moved to the countryside.

Now we’re proud caretakers of our own lawn and garden –

and Rolnik is, of course, its official master.