A Dog for Mom

My children were shocked when I came home from the Humane Society with a 2 year old formerly stray dog, possibly a jack russell beagle mix. Not only that I got a dog, but that I got a house dog. In the past we had big friendly dogs to live outside and protect our home, well as much as big friendly dogs can protect. The children were younger and I didn't want to worry about the dogs hurting them. Also, the dogs were supposed to teach them responsibility. I took care of the kids, and the kids took care of the dogs. Of course having a pet often becomes a chore, and after our last dog died, I was not prepared to have the responsibility of another pet whether it would be their responsibility or mine. So we have been dogless for a few years now. That was a good thing. It was not the time nor did we have the time to care for another dog.
My youngest daughter often begged us for a dog. When we were in the Humane Society neighborhood we would always look- just look. We also would often admire puppies in the pet shops. It gave me time to think that maybe someday I would get a dog, and I would know the right dog when I saw it.
I thought, if I were to get a dog, it would be a small dog that I could enjoy having around the house, but I worried a small dog might be yappy or nippy and nervous. I like animals to be gentle and trainable. I also wanted a dog with a shorter coat that I could keep clean. I had a dog when I was a girl that fit my ideal for size and cuteness, but not really behavior. All I could say is that I may not get a dog today or this year, but I'll know when see the one I will choose.
This is what happened the day I decided to make a quick stop in the Humane Society just to look. There she was, the size, the temperament, the cuteness, sold! I brought her home to the surprise of my daughters. She was for them, but my girls figured out quickly that she was for me!

The girls named her Heidi. She's so fun. I don't think I have enjoyed having a pet so much- Why? I think this time I was ready. I am no longer busy watching young children, but maybe also feeling some of the empty nest since my sons have grown and are now on their own. While dogs don't take the place of my kids, I have been experiencing the kind of excitement of what it was like when my children were at the toddler stage. I find myself laughing so much when I watch my dog play. She is keeping me active, something I need to keep off those middle aged extra pounds. And the unconditional love when I walk in the door, when I call her name to come and when she lets me pet her and scratch her tummy. If ever I was ready for a pet this was the right time, and this was the right dog!