comfort

I’m a little slow on posting–my daughter-in-law informed me it is National Dog Day, and thought I should write something special–or maybe post some pictures. RIGHT!!! At 12 Hills Dog Rescue—it seems everyday is a special dog day—this evening we received an adorable 8 week old poodle/schnauzer. She is so sweet—and a little nervous to be in a new place. Tomorrow we will start her health regimen, but for tonight, she is getting used to us and some of our small ones.
So, back to National Dog Day! Should I mention the dogs that we loved and lost? Or, maybe the ones we have helped that were extra-special, or maybe some dogs we have here at the rescue now, still waiting for their families.
Last week we lost our special girl Daisy Mae. She was 10 years old and Chuck’s special shadow. Knowing her time was getting short, she needed to be with him whenever she could. She even sat in the pickup on Sunday mornings while he was in church, and enjoyed riding with him on his Mule. So, this year—it seems fitting to honor Daisy Mae. We will miss you, girl!
Mentioning those dogs that we have had for some time come to mind. Dogs like Page, Harley, Chico, Omaha, Jimmy, Emerson–still waiting, for their forever families. We don’t lose hope that they will be adopted. Lu Lu Legs found her family this week, and we are happy for her. Now we have so many others still waiting. . . .
So thanks to all the dogs that have shared their doggie kisses, comfort and love with us over the years. We celebrate knowing each one of you!

Shoes??? Why am I talking about shoes? I had another one of my light bulb moments—and it all started with shoes.

My daughter-in-law, Deanna was walking to our shed, and I remarked about her new shoes. She said, “These aren’t new, but I love wearing them. So comfortable—and I can wear them all day.” “They just feel good on my feet.”

Now, I am not trying to compare doggies with shoes, so don’t get started. But, think about it. The dog or pet of any kind should fit you. Your life style, your family, your home, etc. And. . . . sometimes shoes need to be worn for awhile to make them feel comfortable on your feet. So, in a way, I am comparing dogs to shoes.

Before you bring a dog into your family, you need to go over some basic facts.

Do I have time for a new member of the family?
Is my life style busy, quiet?
Am I patient enough for a work in progress dog, or do I need one that has no issues. Adult or puppy??

These are just a few of the questions that should come up before you adopt, or bring in a dog, into your family. Rescue dogs are usually a little different. Just as some shoes need to be broken in when new, dogs need time to mold to your family and way of life. They need time to trust you, and sometimes it takes a few weeks, and even a few months. During that time, patience and love should be administered every day.

So, what am I saying??? Ask yourself some questions, before you adopt. Do I have time for a dog in our household? Do I need a dog for comfort, or one that is very active to match my lifestyle? Do I have the patience needed to work with the issues that I might encounter with a rescue dog?

Just like buying a new pair of shoes—they should “Feel Good.”

Here is Linus–He is an example of a dog that needs time and patience. It takes him some time to warm up to you–and he feels safer with teens and adults, especially women. And. . . having another dog in the family makes him feel more comfortable.