Southwestern College Santa Fe, NM
I moved to Santa Fe from Texas in August 2012 to start my first year at Southwestern College. It was a hard move for me because I basically uprooted myself from a place I called home for 15 years, leaving my family and friends behind. It was rather lonely for me until I met Paloma in November 2012. My friend Claudia Escareno-Clark, Paloma’s Godmother, found her as a stray in her neighborhood and took her to the shelter. Claudia had heard me considering adopting a dog but I wasn’t completely sure. I was hesitant about adopting a dog because I knew how much of a commitment it was going to be to train since she was going to be an indoor dog. I lived on a ranch in Texas so I never had to worry about that. Claudia called me saying she found the perfect dog for me so we went to the shelter to visit Paloma. Later that afternoon I signed the paperwork and was taking Paloma home. From time to time, I still can’t believe I have a dog!
Paloma is a 4 year old hound/beagle mix who is well behaved, lovable, and friendly. Her name means “dove” in Spanish. A dove represents peace which is why I named her “Paloma” because of her calming peaceful nature. She always wants to meet new people and pets when we go on walks. I have always heard dogs resemble their owners which I found comical, but after having Paloma for almost a year I have seen how she is me in dog form. Paloma and I share a bubbly and spunky personality. Paloma is also a mentor for me. She is a daily reminder of unconditional love, forgiveness, faithfulness, and to slow life down to appreciate the good things.
Paloma truly is the perfect dog for me. She is the best thing that happened to me since my move to New Mexico, and I could not imagine my life without her. Life is better with my Paloma! 
