My oh my. What a crazy few weeks it's been. I'm sure no one wants to read about my stress at work, but it's been enough to give me an ulcer. I think it's starting to work its way out, but it's been difficult. Exciting, but difficult.
But the real excitement in my life lately is that I've decided to get a dog. I've wanted a dog for a long time, but it was never right before, either time-wise or money-wise, or whatever. But now I think it's a good time and I'm as ready as I'll ever be. So I've been obsessed with that since the middle of October. I think the new "obsession" with a doggie has been winning over the old "obsession" with knitting because it's so stressful at work and something new is so much more compelling - and distracting.
I've been researching breeds (I decided on a Miniature Wirehaired Dachshund), then researching breeders and rescues, and now I'm learning about training and how to get a well-behaved and social dog. I won't be able to deal with a puppy puppy until spring so I have a bit of time, but it's important to contact breeders earlier rather than later and I will need to do a bit of re-arranging of my apartment so time is good.
Too bad I spend all my time wandering the internet and haunting Petsmart.
4 comments:
Just remember the second law of economics.
"There is no such thing as a free puppy!"
DAD
Yippee! A dog will be great company. Can't wait til you get him or her
Congratulations! I am so happy to hear that you're adopting a little one. I adopted my first dog while in grad school (1993) and my life has been so enriched.
I know you didn't ask for any advice, but I just can't help myself. I'm a little bossy by nature, so please skip to the end if so inclined.
* Check to see if your local AKC offers dog obedience classes. Generally cheaper than Petmart or Petco.
* Watch lots of "Dog Whisperer" if you get the National Geographic channel. I LOVE Cesar's approach to working with dogs and have learned a great deal in the few times I've been able to watch his show. He also has a book out. NB. Cesar works exclusively with "problem" dogs, but the principles he uses are equally appropriate for all dogs.
* I have a savings account for my pets to deal with regular expenses like vaccinations, teeth cleanings, etc. It helped a lot near the time when my first dog started to decline. I was more than prepared for those expenses and didn't have to take on debt to take care of him well.
* Don't let the cuteness of the little dog take over. You have to be firm and consistent. I have a terrier mix (~11 lbs.) and he would run my house if I let him.
Again, congratulations! I'm thinking about adopting another, but I'm waiting to be ready. In the mean time, I'm obsessing just as much as you.
In OCD companionship,
Nancy
Dogs rule!
But...your dad is right, there is no such thing as a free puppy. (We have a wonderful Toy Fox Terrier who broke his leg in April, had complications recovering, and finally had plates put in at the state vet college in August. Don't ask me how much he costs now!) So...look into pet insurance. It's too late for us, but I guess it's not that expensive.
Anyway, a dog will enrich your life immeasurably and wheedle his/her way into your heart in ways you cannot imagine. Good luck! (Nancy had some great tips, by the way...)
Post a Comment