So, we’ve finally decided to adopt another dog. At first, I really wasn’t ready – I actually went to an animal shelter and left in tears – but now I’m there. I told myself two things:
(1) I’m not replacing Bear, because no one can replace her. Like ever ever.
And (2) Hank would really do better with a friend. He’s never been an only dog.
One night at dinner, I asked the kids what they thought about adopting another dog. True to form, here’s what they said:
D, my thoughtful son: “It should be a dog that’s no bigger than Hank. I don’t really care what breed, but retrievers are nice. And it should want to play with toys and a tennis ball and be nice to Hank. Maybe even be in charge so that he feels better.”
My thinker, that one.
M, my daughter who gets right to the point: “I don’t really care. Let’s just make sure we don’t adopt a fat dog.”
Got it.
I’m pretty sure she meant that we need a dog who can go on daily walks with Hank and play ball with us. I’m certain that’s what she meant.
Anyhoo…
We do have some “real” requirements:
(1) The dog must be rescued – from a rescue group or from a shelter. There are too many homeless dogs out there not to give one a good home.
(2) The dog has to get along with Hank and the kiddos.
(3) No puppies. I prefer more adult-ish dogs – ages 1-6 would be perfect – so that you generally skip the “chewing on everything, potty-training, all up in Hank’s grill” phase. Plus, puppies generally get adopted quickly because everyone loves puppies. I would rather save a dog with a little wisdom under his collar, if you know what I mean.
I’m hoping there’s going to be a sign – something that tells me that we’ve found the right dog. That definitely happened with Bear – it was totally fate (as explained in this post). And we have a bunch of friends helping us look, so that definitely helps.
So here we go. Looking for a new friend and member of our family. I’ll keep you posted.
Can’t stand the suspense? Meet our new dog HERE!
A "recovering lawyer," I turned in my power suits for power tools and a life of DIY. I believe in merging old and new to make a house a home.
I hope you find a buddy for Hank soon! I know whoever gets adopted by your family is going to be one lucky pup!
Aww…thank you! We’ll all be lucky! 😉 Thanks, friend!
I can’t wait!
Thanks, Sharon!!
It will be nice for Hank to have another pooch friend. How wonderful that you will be adopting a more seasoned dog – there are so many loving dogs that deserve a good home. I will be on the lookout for your post introducing your new family member! Take Care!
Thanks, Vickie! I’m excited but also a little nervous. I know it’ll be fine, and I know there are tons of dogs who need homes.
Hi Karen and family!
I’m so glad to hear that ya’ll are ready for another family member. One can never replace another, a we can do is add another one to love! I believe, with a my heart that this is what Bear would want you to do for another rescue.
When, and only when all the pieces of the puzzle come together, you will know. I know from personal experience. It will happen when it’s supposed to happen, and not a nano second before. I know Hank man will be a happy boy when he has another to love too.
I hope M. is feeling well and doing better.
Have a blessed day everyone, Hope
Aw, thanks! I know – we’ll know when it’s right. Thank you so much! And M is doing great – thank you!
Keep visiting the shelter. I believe you will know when you meet the right dog. You’ll just know. Looking forward to “the rest of the story”!!!
Thanks, Karen! I know – I know that I’ll know. Thank you!
Keep looking and you will find the perfect dog for your family. We have four rescue dogs that came from various Atlanta shelters and love each one differently. We started with just one, but kept adding as I saw the “perfect” addition to our family. Four is our limit!!
Thanks, Geri! Our limit is two – or else Dear Husband says he’s moving out. 😉 I would adopt them all if I could.
Thanks for promoting adoption. I read your blog because your pups are such a big part of your family…plus your DIY stuff is(n’t) too shabby 🙂
Thanks, Jennifer! I’m so glad you’re here!
Glad to hear that you are ready. I like that you are looking for a rescue. All mine have been rescues or ones that have not been wanted for whatever reason. I think they make the best pets, I call them my furbabies.
They are furbabies! I love it! Thank you, Judi!
Oh Karen, I am so excited for you, your kids, your whole family and the new fur family member who is looking for you too! 🙂 Love your children’s answers. 🙂 And I love your comment “won’t be all up in Hank’s grill”… that was laugh out loud funny. I get it. I adore your thinking process and look forward to hearing more. Giddy goodness my friend! 🙂
Thank you, Christina!!
You will all benefit from another dog! When our Alfie died, I cried day and night, different friends told me we needed to get another dog. After 3 months of severe mourning, I gave in and we searched for a few weeks until we found Rosie who was “the one”! Alfie is not forgotten and never will be but getting Rosie was the best medicine for us and an awesome little dog. Good luck in your search, you too will find “the one”!
Thank you, Pam. That’s exactly how I feel – no one can replace Bear, but I know we have so much room to love another rescue pup!
Good luch, Karen. It’s the right thing on so many levels. : )
Mickey Wood
(Mew978 on IG)
Thank you, Mickey!
Thank you for going with a rescue dog. I agree there are too many waiting for a good home. What ever dog you choose will appreciate your loving home. Opening your hearts and home is a wonderful thing.
Thank you! Rescues are the best – they always rescue you right back!