Four years ago I lost a friend to cancer. Needless to say, I was devastated and during that time I started contemplating on getting a dog. I don't know why but I had that incredible feeling that I have to have one. I was going back and forth about it because even though I want one I was also scared at the same time. What if I can't take care of it? or worse what if I kill it? Thankfully, the powers that be made that decision for me. One day at work, someone heard about me "thinking of getting a dog" and knows somebody that wants to give away puppies and was looking for takers so I was offered one. I didn't really know what to say at that time and so I said nothing. The next morning lo and behold! there was a crate with this tiny fur ball of black and white spots under my table...waiting for me! The owner told me to give it a try, no commitment and if at the end of the day I decided I don't want to keep it, there will be no issues, she will just have to find the puppy another home. And so I did. I tried an entire day of juggling between trying to do my job but also trying to try to take care of a tiny puppy. I was still apprehensive by the end of the day but I couldn't and didn't have the heart to let go of that fur ball! She was so stinking cute! And so, I went home that night with a dog. Unprepared and clueless. It was challenging the first few days and I had to ask for some time off from work to help Karlie (yes, that's her name) get acclimated to her new home. Our home. I had no idea about house training, potty training, meals, vaccinations, do's and don'ts etc. etc. Luckily we have google and youtube or else!...I don't know what could've happened and frankly I don't even wanna know. lol! But here's what I had to do:
- Get puppy essentials : leash and collar, puppy bed and blankets, crate, food and water bowls, food and treats, toys, grooming supplies like brush, shampoo/conditioner, toothpaste/toothbrush, towels and puppy training pads.
- Find a Vet : for vaccinations/shots , getting a microchip for identification and enrolled in puppy wellness plan with Banfield. (optional)
- Start Training: schedule feeding time, schedule elimination (pee/poop) time, schedule play time. Reward good behavior.
I wish I can tell you that it was that easy. But It was not! It involved a lot of patience, deep breaths and counting 0-10 every time she has accidents because after a long day the last thing you really want to do is to clean up poop from your carpet. Not to mention puking in the car whenever she has to go to the vet. Or being sick for eating she wasn't supposed to... But all is good now. We got it down to a tee. I survived and she's still alive! lol! Looking back, I don't know what my life would be like if Karlie didn't show up that morning. I'm so happy I went with my gut even though I was not sure if I should. She has been a joy to me. I can't explain it. I'm sure people who have dogs or other pets understands what I'm talking about. But to answer my own question...was I ready for a dog four years ago? Absolutely not! But sometimes in life you just have to take a leap of faith, you'll never know what it might bring. And I'm so glad I did! BTW, Karlie is a Jack Russel and Chihuahua mix. She weights about 13 lbs. and has tons of energy!
