To Puppy or Not?

The decision to add a new pet is never easy.  There are many things to consider when adding a new pet.  For example; the initial cost (adoption or purchase), medical care, training (time and money), time to spend with pet, grooming, and the list goes on.  Animals are a living breathing entity and rely on their human companions to tend and care for all of their needs, which includes time to love and have fun.

The decision to add Rori was not easy.  We had to consider our other pets-Hanna who is 10, Darby 12, Kearsey the cat who is fifteen, and Trevar who is four.  The mature dogs and cat were settled in their routine and relationships, so adding a new puppy would obviously disrupt the balance.  After much thought, we brought Rori home.  It did not go well at first.  As I sat on the lawn with the puppy, and called the other dogs to greet her, she decided to growl.  This upset the apple cart from the get go.  No one wanted to play with her and quite frankly they were very put out.  Trevar would not make eye contact with me for several days.  Hanna scoffed every time she came near her, the cat scrambled, and Darby retreated to a crate.  My once happy kingdom of pets was in disarray.  However, with much care and attention given to all, sharing of treats helped, Trevar began playing with her.  Soon Darby joined in too.  The cat no longer scrambled as she now holds her ground with the puppy.  Hanna still scoffs, but will look for her if she is not here, or anxiously goes to her crate to remind me to let her out.  “Animal adjustments” has been one of many changes that will take place with the addition of Rori.  Trevar says, “Finally I’m not last to get a treat.”  Darby says, “She’s fun to play with.”  Kearsey says, “I’m gonna’ get her one of these days,” and Hanna says, “She’s all right as long as she stays outta’ my face.”  My husband and I say, “She adds to the joy of our house, and we are glad we brought her home.”

Adding a pet is a major decision, one that needs to be made responsibly.