Life is busy, for us it is just getting easier. So why have we decided to add to our family? Our friends and family think we might be a bit mad. We are past the toilet training stage, the sleepless nights and the constant need for supervision. Why on earth would we want to go back? We are about to start it all again….but this time it will be a bit different.
We are not having another child, but we are bringing another little being into a home… a dog. Well a puppy really but she will grow into a dog soon. Hopefully not a very big one or else I will be in trouble.
I had a dog growing up and think our new pup is going to be a great addition to our family. It has taken literally years of consideration and persuasion to get this far. Here are some of the reasons I’m confident having a puppy will be a positive change for us:
- Walks – I’m looking forward to spending more time outside in the fresh air. Yes, I know it rains a lot in Ireland but that’s just life here. Hail, rain or shine I’ll be out with the dog and I am hopeful that I’ll be bringing at least one of the kids with me. Who knows they may even take initiative and go out on their own (or maybe that is wishful thinking!)
- Responsibility – dogs don’t feed themselves - they need regular feeding and routine. This will teach the kids some responsibility and an insight into planning.
- A conversation starter – having a dog is a great way to find new friends and a good neutral topic to chat about.
- Play dates – we are already fending off the requests for play dates. Looks like it could be a busy summer!
- Order around the home – the days of PS4 remotes left on the floor and new runners thrown by the door will be no more. Having a dog forces you to tidy up. Move them from the floor or have them chewed is the new motto.
- Purpose – caring for another person is a great purpose in life. Caring for a puppy is very close to that. The kids are going to have to look after the puppy too. As they are older they are looking forward to this.
- Puppy classes – I’m looking forward to spending time at puppy classes with the kids and pup as they develop their bond and learn more about the realities of having a dog.
- Unconditional friendship – I know from having a dog that there is a great bond there. I’m looking forward to always having someone in the house that is happy to see me and I know this feeling will be echoed throughout the house.
I am not naive enough to think it will all be plain sailing. I know pets are expensive. They leave a hole in your purse and often your furniture, but I think it will be worth it. Dogs offer an insight into life that every day is precious. They live in the moment for the moment. What a great way to be and a great message to teach the kids.
