We did it - we got a puppy and it’s our first! To say I’m in love is an understatement. Did I know what I was in for? Maybe not quite!
I knew raising a puppy would be a lot of work. However, I was up for the challenge. I mean seriously, I raised two children, and survived other challenges... how difficult could it be? I’ll bring him home, snuggle him, feed him, take him for walks and he will be the perfect little Angel! I will have a companion, protector, and unconditional love! Sure…
The one thing that I wasn’t prepared for was that he might possibly be a monster! Ha! I knew the breed we were getting was high energy and would require many walks daily, but WTF are “zoomies?” After the first episode, I thought, “he’s no match for me! I’m one of the calmest people I know, I’ll just teach him to meditate!” Haha!
And then, there’s the crate training! He is a doll at night, and sleeps in his crate from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. I’m very grateful for that. Daytime, however, is a whole other story. He wants nothing to do with being in there. As of today, the battle continues. I don’t think he realizes that I am also incredibly stubborn. I will win this battle!
With all that, he has already taught me to see the world through new eyes and ears. His curiosity is so endearing. Birds, grass, snow, dogs, people, cars – these are all new experiences for him! He hears every sound and smells absolutely everything. He is teaching me how to be more mindful in nature. I now have a mindfulness teacher! He has helped me to connect with my inner child.
Also, he is hilarious! We sit and watch him play for hours! What did we do with our time before? I am struggling with getting anything done! He’s afraid of the laundry basket, suitcase, and even his own shadow. He would much rather play in a box than the toys we bought him! He’s also starting to use his paws and pounces on everything. He loves chasing blowing leaves…it really is adorable!
Although this first year will be challenging, he has brought us so much joy in his first couple of weeks at home. There are the snuggles, the kisses, the puddles on the floor, the biting, and even the zoomies. But, I can’t complain because I chose him and I know, this too shall pass.
He is actually doing so well in 1 short week, but it’s been a lot of work. I’m exhausted, to say the least! So, to all of you who are considering getting a puppy - I challenge you to think long and hard. It is a HUGE responsibility!
The blog this week is shorter! I’m sure after reading it you know why! Somebody has to pee…
Until next time…