The New Dog

We got another dog. Her name is Cobie, and she is an eight month-old, soft-coated Wheaten Terrier. She needed a home because her family had a little boy who was allergic to her saliva. Who knew that could happen? Not those poor folks, who were very sad to let their pet go. I hugged the mom when Cobie got in my van, because I know it was a difficult decision, even if for the right reasons.

Sean's wife called a week ago to ask if we wanted another dog. She is friends with Cobie's family, or perhaps not, since she recommended our house as a good place for their dog! We have many people who live here, and we are busy, as you know. Sometimes we are also loud. So, you've got to be the right kind of dog to decide to stay with us. We already have that kind of dog, and his name is Leo. He's a Goldendoodle, who looks like a standard poodle with a square nose. He's very mellow and accommodating, but....he's kind of wussy around other dogs. Especially smaller ones. So, the New Dog transition is going to take some time.

I brought Cobie home while all the boys were at school. I wanted us to have quiet time to bond, for her to understand I am the person in charge. You know, until the Captain gets home. Then he likes to imprint his Alpha-maleness upon all the creatures. He's done it to me at least five times. I like to think of us as an Alpha and Omega duo. Kind of like the awesome new Patricia Briggs series about Charles, the sexy, inscrutable werewolf, and his mate. Available now at your local bookseller!

I completely surprised all the boys, who had no idea Cobie was coming. They've asked for another dog in the past, and we tried once before, but we had to return that lass for biting Five in the face. The truth is, I'm not really a "dog person." My M.I.L. has mentioned this often enough that it's a bit of a running joke. I like dogs, but, apparently, without enough vigor to qualify me as a dog lover.

I'm okay with that. Leo and I have an understanding. I feed him, I pet him, I take him to the vet and the groomer. I made a commitment to him when he joined our family, that I would do my best to keep him healthy and happy. In exchange, he won't be too barky, he won't pee on my carpet, and he'll mostly lay about out of my way. It's not dissimilar from the arrangement I have with my teenagers. Leo and I shook on it, because I don't kiss dogs.

Now, Cobie is here, and I'm sure Leo is looking for his copy of the contract, because he can't figure out why I've upset the apple cart. I do love him. I just love my kids more. And they, in return, will love the dogs slavishly. See? Still not a dog person, but I'm not crazy. Really.