In this post, guest writer Barbara Richardson discusses her bold and brave decision to introduce a puppy to her life.
I love dogs. I bought a Labrador puppy when my son was nine as a companion for us when we moved to Kenya more than 20 years ago. We loved Rafiki (‘friend’ in Swahili) for many years and through two other international relocations.
In recent years I have thought often about getting another dog. I’ve researched breeds, kennels and training. But each time I came close to making the jump, my head held me back. I just couldn’t get beyond the negative thoughts of the expense, the limits on my travel, the change in lifestyle (“sorry, I can’t go, I must get home to let the dog out…”).
Eventually, I also considered the positive reasons for adding a dog to my life at this stage. The research shows having a pet helps seniors to get out of the house, exercise, and meet new people. Plus a pet provides emotional support. For older owners who live alone (me), pets also help reduce stress, lower blood pressure, increase social interaction and physical activity, and stimulate new rituals.
Yet I still couldn’t make the jump. I dithered, considered, and reconsidered. But eventually found the right place to buy, where I could be sure the puppy was not the product of a mill, and fell in love with the online photos. I had to fly to Calgary to choose one of three siblings: two boys and a girl. In my mind I didn’t want a female, so my choice was between the two males.
My sister-in-law accompanied me to pick my puppy. Nancy is blonde, petite, loves fashion, definitely what we affectionately call a “girly girl”. When I walked into her house later with the girl puppy, her husband just laughed and shook his head. “Of course you bought the girl! You had my wife with you!”
Well yes, perhaps Nancy swayed me. But so too did my puppy’s sweet face and irregular colouring that looks like someone wiped a white paint brush randomly on her black fur. And her gentle disposition.
The return to Vancouver was traumatic for both Siri (named to reflect today’s culture) and me. We flew together, with her in a crate under the seat in front of me and me terrified she would cry or bark. Not a peep. She did, however, throw up three times, so I quickly grasped the nuance of my life ahead with a puppy. We arrived home, and now I spend my days wiping up pee and walking her every two hours. Like having a new baby.
In the end, it was a heart not a head decision. The factor that pushed me over the edge: realizing if I didn’t buy a dog soon, it might outlive me! So this month, I let my heart lead and I bought a puppy. A tiny, adorable fluff ball. Who pees everywhere, cries when in her crate, has me spoon feeding her (not kidding), outside refuses to move sometimes, and wakes me too early in the mornings.
Head or heart? Our lives are shaped and defined by both, but decisions of the heart bring colour to our lives. •
Barbara says
Thanks for suggesting that I write about my puppy decision! I’ll reread it the next time Siri pees all over the floor!
Ian says
This is a delightful story and Siri’s ‘mother’ is proof that we elderly folk are still capable of making a few bold decisions!
Glen Wickens says
You will have to write a companion piece in a year, telling readers how the little fur ball has become the near perfect dog and companion. But for now, yes, puppies are a lot of work. After six months when Siri has had her Parvo shots, she will be able to play a bit with other dogs. Must be traumatic for any puppy to be removed from a litter and suddenly find itself sleeping alone in a strange environment.
Tim McPhail says
Thanks Barbara and Pam, Stories like this is the reason why I follow Sunset Years. Very topical and to the point. I wish you many many happy years with Siri.
Love her eyes !!
Catherine Mccallum says
That face would win me over too! I have two big, elderly dogs that also pee (accidentally due to a senior bladder) and throw up. Siri, at least, has an excuse as a puppy.
Linda Richardson says
Bravo Barb. Sounds like this was the right decision for you. I wish you and Siri both a long and happy life!
Kerry Ann Brennan says
She’s adorable Barb, certainly a good choice on your part and who could resist that face!