Today is my birthday.
Someone placed a little outfit around me and told me this was supposed to be a happy day. I tried to sit nicely. I lifted my head. I even gave the best smile I could.
But people often look at my mouth first.
My teeth do not sit the way other dogs’ teeth do. My face looks unusual, and sometimes strangers stare, laugh, or turn away before they have the chance to know me.
I do not understand why looking different makes me easier to ignore.
I still get excited when someone says my name.
I still lean into gentle hands.
I still dream of a warm bed, a full bowl, and one person who will look beyond my face and see the small heart waiting underneath.
Today, I am not asking for presents.
I do not need a large cake or a room filled with balloons.
I only want to know that I have not become invisible simply because I was born different.
So before you scroll away, could you stop for just one moment?
Could you look into my eyes instead of at my teeth?
Could you leave me one small birthday wish, so this day does not pass in silence?
Today is my birthday.
Please tell me that a face like mine is still worthy of love.
