Thursday, February 26, 2004
Puppy Chow
Well, I'm gonna do it. I'm gonna get a dog. I'm pretty excited about this, considering that it'll be my first. Oh sure, I had dogs growing up, but they were my parents' dogs - the 'family' dog. This time, I get to choose it, name it, and - of course - take care of it. Because, after all, we all know that whenever a new pet enters the house, no matter HOW much the kids swear, it's always Mom who ends up taking care of the critters.
I'm looking to get a beagle. A cute little beagle pup. I have very specific criteria, which were unfortunately unmet when Zo and I went puppy-shopping today. I want a dog who's medium sized (no fluffy fishbait or a dog that will take over my couch and shed everywhere). S/he needs to be kid-friendly, housebroken, energetic but not hyper, and get along with other dogs.
We met Bailey at the APA - beautiful blonde & white springer spaniel, sweet, gentle, cuddly, good with kids - but not good with other dogs. Problem, since Aunt Zo will be puppy-sitting whenever I'm out of town. And as you all know, Ms. Zo is crazy-insane-toenail-painting-in-LOVE with her doggie, Annabelle. So, no Bailey.
Then we met Rosy at the Humane Society. A beagle! Sweet, shy, friendly, a bit timid, housetrained. However, not good for kids under 13 and doesn't like men. Yikes. Ah well, Rosy will get adopted by some sweet lady. She's too nice not to!
Now, kiddo does NOT know that we're getting a dog. I wanted to make sure it was the RIGHT dog, and I didn't want to get his hopes up, since finding the perfect canine companion can take time. But I did want to see how he felt about having a dog (he's been begging for one since he was 5!).
Vi: Now, you know, if we get a dog, you're going to be responsible for picking up its poop in the yard, right?
Kiddo: EEEEEEEEWWW! No way, Mom.
Vi: Well, no poop-cleanup, no puppy.
Kiddo: *BIG sigh* Well, okay. But can I please have some gloves?
Me - laughing my head off, realizing that he LITERALLY thought I meant 'pick up the poop.'
and later....
Vi: So, kiddo, what would you name a dog if you got one?
Kiddo: Zoe. Zoe the dog.
Vi: Zoe? After Aunt Zoe? Why??
Kiddo: Because I like her.
hehehe - Zoe the dog. Zoe gave a big "awwwww" when I told her. Because when a kid says he wants to name his dog after you, it really is a compliment. ;)
DivAwwwwwwingly Yours,
Vi
