A sign above the pet store, read “PUPPIES FOR SALE”.

These signs are designed to grab people’s attention including children, to the possibility of getting their own puppy, perhaps their first pet!

Soon a little boy appeared at the sign and asked, “how much are you going to sell those puppies for?” The store owner replied, “Anywhere from £30-£50.” The little boy reached into his pocket and pulled out some change. “I have £2.37, can I look at them?” The store owner smiled and whistled.

From the kennels 5 dogs came running out.  One puppy was lagging considerably behind. Immediately the little boy singled out the lagging, limping puppy. He asked, “What’s wrong with that little dog?”

The man explained that when the puppy was born the vet said that this puppy had a bad hip socket and would limp for the rest of his life. The little boy got really excited and said, “That’s the puppy I want to buy!” The store owner replied, “No, you don’t want to pay for that little dog. If you really want him, I’ll give him to you.”

The little boy got upset. He looked straight into the man’s eyes and said “I don’t want you to give him to me. He is worth every bit as much as the other dogs and I’ll pay the full price. In fact, I will give you £2.37 now and 50 pence every month until I have him paid for.” The store owner countered, “You really don’t want to buy this puppy son. He is never going to be able to run, jump and play like other puppies.”

The little boy reached down and rolled up his trouser leg to reveal a badly twisted, crippled left leg supported by a big metal brace. He looked up at the store owner and said, “Well, I don’t run so well myself and the little puppy will need someone who understands.”

The man was now biting his bottom lip. Tears welled up in his eyes… the store owner smiled and said, “Son, I hope and pray that each and every one of these puppies will have an owner such as you.”

(Author unknown)