Letting Go
Hermes
Today my son cried and cried at breakfast. He said through his sobs, “I don’t know why I am crying!” I think he is missing his puppies. No matter what I said though, he denied it but I’ve seen this before. He needs to grieve their leaving and I don’t blame him. I miss them too, but my missing is much less intense. He was their primary playmate and they were his. He, being an only child, really enjoys having little ones who are ready and eager to play with him. And they were there for him, without requiring anything more from him than his company. Of course he misses them. I could try to convince him that having the pups in their new homes is best for everyone, I could remind him of how unavailable I was during their last few weeks with us, I could try to avoid his grief by telling him we’ll get more Read the rest of this post »
Up Next on Canine Fostering
Sweetie, our summer foster mama
As the story of Annie and her puppies comes to a close, do not fret! I will continue posting but the focus will change. I will give updates on the puppies (with photos!) and Annie and how they are doing in their new homes. I will also be posting on our previous fosters and how they are doing today, 8 months later. And finally, I will be including more information about our dogs (3 of which are rescues) as well as training tips.
So, keep checking in! We will also be hosting another dog family shortly…of course.
Getting Back to Normal
The dust has settled and the smell of bleach is fading as we are deep into cleaning the house. Amazing how many things get put on hold while the puppies are here…cleaning being one of them. I haven’t heard from any of the puppy families, always a good sign. And I did hear from Annie’s new home and while there are some challenges, things seem to be going as expected. It is harder to place an adult dog, especially in a home with another adult dog, than it is to place a puppy. Puppies are all about adapting to their surroundings while adult dogs come with their “personalities” in place, making it a bit harder for them to adapt. But with clear and consistent leadership, they can do it.
Last Four Pups Go On Their Way
And so the final four left yesterday…Little Cupid, Vixen, Dasher and Donner. I was sad but business-like once again. We let the pups romp outside with the family that took Cupid and that made a good memory for me of transition.
Cupid
To you Cupid I wish for many long and lazy nights spent chewing a good bone, tired out from a day of playing with your doggy sister and from good, long, Cesar-inspired walks. Your new family will love you and more importantly, keep their attention on what you need to live a full life as a dog.
Vixen
Vixen, to you with your spunky and happy personality I wish for you many silly games with your new little family member. I hope you have lots of doggy play-dates, long romps in big spaces, and I hope you learn to catch a frisbee. I know you will be a beautiful jumper, your tiny 8 week old body already so athletic. Be a good girl and learn the rules of your new home. Make me proud.
Dasher
And Dasher, my beautiful boy, enjoy your new family – full of love, children and other dogs. Learn the rules of the house and teach your owners some new tricks. Get your doggy brother into shape and get your people out walking more often. And enjoy all the love the children have to give.
Donner
And finally, dear little Donner. You are so loved, I can see it in your new family’s eyes. You will grow up to be a beauty. Keep your happy tail wagging sweetness. Enjoy all the things life is going to give to you. Make new friends that honor the friendship between you and my son…for you were his favorite playmate, and his pride and joy. Remember how to give paw (both the front AND back!) and never ever forget how to dance.
Doggie Wishes and Muffled Cries
I came home after running around this morning and the house was quiet…no Annie peering expectantly from her crate, NEEDING me, only 4 puppies at the gate NEEDING me. It felt good. I miss Annie but I feel glad to be out from under the weight of her need. She is working hard in her new home – her world has been turned upside down and it will take her some time to get her bearings. But it is better for her there then in my basement wanting so much when I haven’t got it to give. I keep sending her warm feelings, doggy wishes, messages from my heart without words. I think about the feeling I had watching her run run run in the yard and send her that sense of exhilaration. I think about her warm eyes as she looked at me late at night when all the work was done and it was just the two of us and send her that tenderness. I think about the way she tried so hard to fit into my life and send her that determination. It is all I can do for her.
It is a relief though, to have that had work behind me.
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Comet and Blitzen Away Away
Comet
Last night after Annie left two more puppies went to their new homes – little Comet and little Blitzen. It was so sweet seeing Blitzen’s new owners beaming and almost wriggling themselves with puppy joy, and it was heartening to see Blitzen’s little tail wagging and wagging as his new mommy held him. He must have remembered her scent from her previous visits. And my little boy Comit was his sweet and mellow self as his new owner took care of business and filled out his adoption contract. His new family is so excited to welcome him home that they are having a party in his honor and inviting everyone over to meet him. I hope his subdued self isn’t overwhelmed by so much attention.
Blitzen
So, little guys, welcome to your new lives. Grow up to be big, loving dogs. Comet, stay cuddly and sweet and remember, as you grow to 80 pounds you can no longer be a lap dog! Your head on your owners lap will have to suffice. Keep your gentle, loving ways and teach your new kids how to be pack leaders. And Blitzen, grow up to be the brave and fun loving little guy you are destined to be. Teach your new owners how to love and care for you and get them outside and moving around! Be good and walk nicely on a leash. I will miss you two little guys, especially Comet who always asked me for cuddles. Farewell little lads.
