During CJ’s final weeks, I occasionally thought about whether or not I would get another dog. Not a lot, because I was mostly focused on her. But it wasn’t a certain thing, because of my age/stage of life.
But it’s been 40 years since I haven’t had a dog, except for the few weeks after Leakey died. At which point, I acquired three in fairly close succession. I used to say he was such a good dog it took three to replace him. Anyway, the first few days after CJ was put down, I just endured, and felt what life is like with no dog. And then over the weekend, I started thinking about getting another dog, and if so what kind of dog, and looking at dogs online. And discovered that just giving myself permission to get another dog made me feel a lot better. So I’m looking. (I don’t know how to fix the font, so it’ll just have to stay this way).
After thinking and mulling and online exploration, right now the top contender is a miniature Australian Shepherd. The idea is to get a dog that’s small enough to take in the kayak but big and active enough for long walks and mild hiking (the “mild” is for me). So I’ve promised myself not to get any dog until I’ve at least seen some mini Aussies.
But am also still in the exploratory stage. Theoretically, anyway. Today I went over to the Coos County Animal Shelter, and . . . they have puppies.
Those are the boys, and since they’ve been fixed I could have taken one home today. The girls will get spayed next week and then will be available.
Totally not what I’m looking for, right? These are going to be medium to big dogs. No kayaking with them. But they were very snuggly and sweet, and will be great for hiking. That one right in front with the dark nose nearly got me. The one right behind him with the white nose was a close second (they are on the smaller side compared to their brothers.) But I did make it out of there puppy-free, thanks to clinging to my prior resolutions. And the fact that I have a date to look at some Klee Kai puppies in Bandon tomorrow morning. (No, I’d never heard of them either; that’s one reason for looking at them.)
Besides, if either of those pups is still there in a couple of weeks I can always get it then. And if they’ve all found homes by then–well, that’s all to the good, right?
I am so glad that you have made the decision to get a puppy! CJ would not want you to be lonely.
LikeLiked by 1 person
As long as she didn’t have to compete with another dog for my attention. There’s a reason I held off until she was gone . . .🙂
LikeLike
Jean in the past few years I have been very impressed with Corgi’s. Despite the Queen of England’s known affection they are a working cattle dog on a much smaller scale. I hope you’ve met one or two or are going to.
LikeLiked by 1 person
Another breed I’ve considered. I’ve met some really nice ones. It’s hard to imagine one jumping up into the van, though.
LikeLike
Condolences on the loss of CJ. I had fun following your adventures together. Good luck as you look for a new companion to brighten your days.
LikeLiked by 1 person
So sorry about CJ, but like everyone else, I’m glad that you’re looking at other dogs. You’ll know when you find the right one.
LikeLiked by 1 person