Even at the shelter, as we volunteer, we, as a family, have been trying our best to take our "job" seriously. I instructed the kids - OUR jobs, as volunteers, is to assist in CREATING animals that can be somebody's pet and best friend. So, when we're in the cat rooms; pick up and hold each and every cat each time we're there. Don't just rile them up and play with them, but, interact, love, hold them. TEACH them it's nice to be loved.
With the dogs, I now bring treats with me, and we make them sit, be nice, listen, etc. These dogs will hopefully become someone else's cherished member of the family someday. I can't help but believe a dog that behaves a bit better has a better chance of getting adopted.
Now, with Teddy - it is consuming hours of my time. Time, that a few years ago, I would NOT have been able to give, willingly.
We are in dog-obedience class - which is a sacrifice, but one I'm willing to make, to help create a family pet who is a JOY to be around!
I am taking lots and lots of time to help Teddy feel loved, accepted and part of the family. It has meant dealing with some marking territory - INSIDE MY DOMAIN - yuck. It has meant working hard - tethering him around us, room by room by room, to be sure he's going to keep that leg down until he's comfortable with that area of the house.
We have had Teddy a little over a week now - almost two weeks - and I kinda wish I had logged the hours spent in training, teaching, loving, comforting, holding, helping, introducing, feeding, brushing, caring for, and investing in his future as a member of our family.
I am the type of individual who invests my heart and soul into life-changing decisions - including my children and my pets. We now have our 2 cats and our dog, and 3 kids. And, I believe my "quiver is full", as I've heard the expression.
I am patiently longing for the day when Teddy is fully acclimated to life in OUR home, is well trained and can be off leash throughout the whole house and have the freedom he has EARNED.
Until then, it is almost like having an infant again. I have to plan every trip - even to the grocery store. I have to make sure he hasn't been kenneled for too long, or I just decide to go later, when my hubby is home. We have to reconsider family vacations, think about doggy spas/kennels for when we DO go somewhere.
I am NOT complaining about this either. It is the timing in our life that is right - we CAN consider these things. Our family has settled into something of a routine, and our home is in better order now. Had we tried this when we were not ready and able to give our time, money, energy, I cannot imagine the stress it would have created in our house. Teddy most likely would have had to head back to the shelter, which would have broken every one's hearts.
A dog changes everything - as does a baby. At this point, I am ready for this challenge, but it truly is a challenge, and an investment for our family future.
I remember thinking "Oh whatever" when I read advice on "when to get a dog" - and now, I can see and understand from personal experience. It takes HOURS and time and focus in order to create the family pet you desire. A dog isn't just born into perfection, haha. He/she is trained and loved and adored into perfection.
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