Dog people only on this; if you're not a dog people, you'll think I'm being trivial....

We looked at puppies yesterday, and came home puppyless, which for us is like walking across the sahara and then saying, oh, no water thanks, I'll just have this bit of dried toast here.

We lost our beloved old girl 5 years ago, the one who had seen us through most of LD -- was a dreadful year for many other reasons. Then, a year ago, puppy we got after Toezles died had to be put down after a life of constant illness (definitely non-lyme major immune system failures). Living through the second dog's constant illness was unbearably sad, especially since we knew exactly how he felt.

I thought a new puppy would do us both good, but my husband sort of struggled through the puppy inspection with little interest. If Dr. Doolittle suddenly renounced animals, you couldn't have a bigger or more shocking change.

There are so many arguments against a dog -- we'll almost certainly have to move to a smaller and possibly non-dog friendly place in the fairly near future; what if we have to move back to tick country; dogs can tie you down; and then what if we miraculously feel well and want to take a year and hike Bulgaria? Or get a job overseas and can't take the dog? (HA! But the hubby had an offer like this before he took disability and it still stands if he gets well. So far.)

Dogs are such a huge commitment, and we SO don't know what even our short term future looks like.

But I want a puppy. Next litters won't be until Jan. at the earliest, and I'd like to have the hubby home with a dog when I go back to work in Nov (hopefully that's when I go back). I really am worried about leaving him alone while I'm off -- depression, LD, and these long northern winters don't mix.

I probably have about an hour to make up my mind and call the owner back to see if the puppy I liked is even available. I've cried over this decision more than I have over anything for a long, long time.

I feel stupid getting so wrought up about this but there you are. I guess it represents everything that's gotten fubared since LD.

So somebody say something.
 

I know how it is ...have taken poor lost ones in and those eyes just melt my heart! due to that reaction...we are at three..lucky our vet is a good friend and the barter system is still alive.

I know you are weighing the good wiyh the ultimate responsibility in order to give them the best possible care...it is alot of time,tears and hugs and ...you know.

Anyway...the joy they bring and the warmth and the mental support they provide is important to people suffering chronic diseases.They help us to heal.

My pups have given me unconditional love and I thank God for providing such caring creatures!!
 

My way of handling a similar situation may or may not be good advise in your situation..not sure at all about that..

My husdband's dog had died a year before, suddenly, and when we moved upstate I was ready for my pup. A frustrated dog lover at heart, grew up with my Dad who breeds beagles..I had to settle for just my kitties for 15 years living in Manhattan.

We had the "talk"..and strangly, I got all the same kinds of arguements..not ready to make the decision..blah, blah..

But there was a litter of American Bulldog pups calling my name (this was my favorite dog, I "knew" one in the city, sweetest thing)

I listened and talked..and in the end proceeded to take a ride and pick up Miles myself..brought him home in a cardboard box..and set him down in the middle of the living room.

Hubby kept saying he couldn't believe I went and did that, while smiling at the dog..but there was Miles' face suddenly in on the discussion, and that was that.

Then again, Bullies are stubborn, tough to train adolecents..and there was three months of some festering resentment as he had to help with Miles unabashedly, consitantly peeing on the floor and being a particularly bad boy as this breed is known to be tough to train (ok..pain in the @$$)..but, then they grow into the most sweet and obediant dogs and great with everyone and the kids, so hubby got over that, too.
Now they make out every night.

Here I am suggesting that you consider going against hubsters thoughts on this..(shocker coming from me, eh?) but..I don't know. We're talking about a little fuzz face with puppy breath here..not like you're considering picking up a cabana boy, or buying a $700 pair of Joan and David boots.. (look how I justify..scary, isn't it better take my advise with a fistful of salt )

No, seriously, it takes careful thought, and only you know well enough whether his hesitation is strong and real..or if it may be just a bit of foot dragging.

At the very least, I would think you should keep expressing your feelings, so you guys can get to the bottom of it..it's not silly at all to want a puppy!

Mo

[This message has been edited by Mo (edited 13 September 2004).]
 

Listen to Mo. Our lives are way too short to not have these small joys. I'm for the puppy!!! Hubby will love him/her!

lifeline
 

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Always had a dog in the home growing up as a kid.

Life changes...

Adopted my first cats from a shelter....never regretted the decision.

Rented so couldn't own a dog.

Have thought about getting a dog but ...yes...they ARE alot of work and right now, I am working hard and trying to fight anymore TBDs!!!

Soooo, for me,the decision for getting a dog is on the back burner...

In the meantime, I have done some volunteer work at a shelter, farm rescue, and would consider raising a dog for the blind...

It has been VERY rewarding AND I can stop when I feel tired.

Maybe an alternative for you too until you feel definite about it?

Just a thought.

Or you know what? Those retired Greyhounds - I know 2 and I think they don't require alot of exercise. It might be worth exploring.

Thing is, my dog has Lyme too, but when she has bursts of energy, guess who doesn't really have the energy to match?

I feel like she has had an unfair time of this, because she is directly effected by my energy level.

All the best to you

Alyssa. (dog owner/lover)
 

"So somebody say something."

If it feels good.. do it!

I moped around yesterday, thinking and thinking.

My husband said, You can still go get the puppy, you know.

I said No, I think she will be gone by now.

He said, Naw, you could still get her.

I said, No, dammit, she's probably gone, I'd have to call the owner and see, and I don't want to call her unless I'm sure.

He said, I already called. She's holding the puppy for you. Life is too short.

So anyway, brought her home today. I have no idea what her name is; she'll let me know when she's ready. She's quite, quite perfect.

And yes, despite my frivolous interlude, I did contact the governor, and asked all my friends to do so too.
 

I am happy for the puppy.

She found you.

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What a sweet story! Hubster's a softy, eh?

Puppy breath is good stuff. I think they come equipped with unbelievable cuteness to off-set the peeing on the floor.

Congratulations!!!

Mo
 

I say, OVER-RULE HIM! Sometimes people are confused that's all.

Go for it!