3rd Child I never had, weapon I'll never own (My Boxer)

I am not only a Mommy to my two beautiful children, I am also a Mommy to an 80lb Boxer. He is "Man's Best Friend", but he is the third child I never had, and the weapon I will never own.
Buster is one-of-a-kind. He is so incredibly muscular, energetic, solid, and truly the best guard dog a family could ask for. His love & devotion goes above and beyond the loyalties of most people in a lifetime.
I once read a quote:  "Whoever said you can't buy happiness forgot about puppies." This holds true for me. I have always had a dog at my side, and at times, even a cat. I will not compare the two, because their affections are so diverse. They express their love in different ways, but love you just the same? If that makes any sense!
It saddens me to see a home without a pet. I think every child should have a pet, be it big or small. I think that pets teach our children how to respect, love unconditionally, and develop a tender, nurturing side. On the darker, yet deeper end of that, it teaches them that something so loved and cherished, dies. A pet teaches them about loss, and that is a coping mechanism that is never perfected, but it should be something taught young. Again, another war wage amongst us parents! Some parents would disagree that a child can develop more tenderness from having a pet. Guess I'll have to have a comment page or chat page on my web for that one!
I simply cannot write a blog about my kids, and not include Buster. For those who know me, know I am an animal lover to the core. I am a member of the Humane Society, WWF, PETA, Save the Tigers, Boxer Rescue, Anti-Circus, and many more. Please, give your child the gift of a pet, that pet becomes so important to them, and the pet will not let you down. All animals need to be loved. Adopt. There are rescue shelters for all breeds, and there is the ASPCA, Humane Societies, and even ads in the paper from people having no other option but to get rid of their pet.You always have extra love for an animal, I promise you that. Visit the attached video below to see one rescue group for Boxers. Thank you!