Doggie Days
“The more boys I meet, the more I love my dog.” – Carrie Underwood
Okay, that’s not entirely true, but it IS funny! Catchy line from one of my favorite country music artists. The lyrics describe dogs as loyal and friendly, valuable qualities in any companion whether human or canine.
Loyal and friendly top my list of reasons to adopt a dog. I’ve been mulling over this decision for years, even coming up with “pros” and “cons,” but it never seemed like the right time…until now…maybe. I’ve straddled the fence. Because my work schedule can be crazy and because I like to travel and stay busy, a dog would require adjustments to my lifestyle. Because my home is already run by two cats, it would take a very specific dog to fit into the mix. Because I recently took care of a friend’s puppy for a week, I would only want an adult dog. Ha!
I grew up with dogs; in fact, I can’t remember a time when my family didn’t have at least one. Australian shepherds, German shepherds, a few mutts, a dalmatian, even a Siberian Husky shared our various homes. My mom’s latest dog is an Aussie with a giant bark but a sweet temperament. I talk to her on skype and leave her messages on the answering machine. She stares at the computer when my mom listens to my radio programs on-line because she recognizes my voice. The right dogs are excellent sidekicks. They don’t care if you mess up or fail miserably; they’re still happy to see you. They’ll protect you and your home, and they always enjoy going along for the ride. So many “pros” to having a dog! But will I have time to devote to a dog who can’t be left alone all day? Do I really need to run my own zoo? Am I turning into the “Pet Lady”? Will another animal disrupt the cats? Do I want to spend the money to properly care for another animal? Do I want the added responsibility?
A few months ago, I decided I would ONLY adopt a dog if I could find the perfect fit. I started researching on the internet. (Word to the wise, do NOT look at dogs on the web unless you’re serious about taking one home. It’s dangerous for your heart.) I narrowed my search parameters: adult female Aussie, housebroken and crate-trained, friendly, fairly calm, healthy, up to date on her shots, and beautiful. Not too much to ask, right? I honestly didn’t think I’d find anything close. Who would give up a dog like that? But then I discovered Sadie — from her description, she seemed made to order . Surely, she was too good to be true, and how would I ever know since she was also 500 miles away?
While I was visiting my brother last week, I sent an email inquiry about Sadie on a whim. Not only was she still available, but I was able to make a small detour on my way home to meet her. We hit it off instantly. She’s sweet, social, and well-behaved with a gorgeous red merle coat. It was love at first sight. And that’s the last “pro” I needed to tip the scales. I hope to bring Sadie home by month’s end. I promise to post pictures when she officially joins the family.
Play by Play Day by Day with Amy Lawrence 
March 2, 2012 at 9:33 am
My parents have three cats (one of which is a tiger in a cat’s body). They introduced a dog into the mix (black lab/border collie), and the cats did just fine even though the dog (Callie) is very high-strung. Callie was also only six weeks old when my parents got her, and now she is a very lean 65 pounds. I would love to have a dog, but I am not willing to make the lifestyle changes (right now) that you talked about.
March 3, 2012 at 7:10 am
The words “crate trained” always bothers me when somebody is looking for a dog.
You said you are always busy and on the go. You do odd shifts at ESPN and travel with a basketball team doing the radio call.
Is poor Sadie going to be left in a crate while you are doing the overnight shift or gone to a basketball game? Will she be locked up when you are on a trip to another state for your job?
Dogs are very social animals that need attention and companionship. They get lonely and miss their “pack mates” if you want to think of it that way.
Who will watch the dog when you are away? Who will be there at 3 a.m. when you are on the radio and it needs to be walked?
An Aussie isn’t a Paris Hilton type little dog that you put in your purse and carry around as a status symbol. It’s a large, hairy, needy dog that needs lots of attention. They are bred to be social herd animals that need family around them or they don’t do well.
Not a good choice for a home that doesn’t follow a fairly routine lifestyle.
Good luck with your new family member. I hope it works out for you both.
March 3, 2012 at 9:50 pm
Thanks for your concern and your note. I actually don’t have “odd” shifts at ESPN – they are steady at night which means I’m home during the daytime. I love Aussies. I really want this specific breed. Sounds like you know them, too, so you know Aussies enjoy their crates if raised that way. In fact, my Mom’s dog sleeps in her crate even when the door is open and the family is home. She feels safe in there. I won’t bore you with all the details of how I’ll be taking care of Sadie, but I’ve been diligent in planning for every possible scenario and situation. She will be well-loved and extremely happy, and I’m giving her a home after she spent time at a kill shelter. Just because my life isn’t the same as a banker’s or accountant’s doesn’t mean it’s not routine. My life has a great routine, and I’m excited to welcome a new family member. Have a great weekend. 🙂
March 4, 2012 at 4:00 pm
I agree; our Aussie/border collie mix loves her crate! I can’t wait to see pictures – she sounds gorgeous!
March 6, 2012 at 5:01 am
Congratulations!!!
March 8, 2012 at 1:14 pm
congratulations Amy, well done.