Who is the Trainer?

As I mentioned in earlier posts, we have been thinking about adding another dog to our furry family. We have met with a trainer. During Saturday’s visit to the vet, we got her thoughts about the situation. We want to share our thought process in case you too are thinking about either bringing your first pet into your home or adding another to your brood.

On Saturday, I visited a pet adoption fair with Gracie. I was not seriously interested in finding a pet that day. I wanted to use the experience as a training exercise. What could be more chaotic that a bunch of dogs and cats at an adoption fair?

It turned out to be a great training exercise for me too. When you see a dog in a cage, who does not want to take it home, especially if the dog in question is super cute and whimpering? Plus, I absolutely love dogs as much as Rescue Daddy loves cats. If I could, I would take every single one of those dogs home with me. However, I have a responsibility to find a dog that will be a good match for Gracie, Kiki, and Maddy.

I forced aside those emotions and seriously evaluated what traits would be best for them. It was an important exercise. I strongly urge you to be as objective as possible. Take a friend with you when you look, if you do not think you can be objective. You are about to make a serious commitment to care for another life.

Gracie growled at the big dogs, as she always does (so much for that gorgeous yellow Lab). She was less threatened by dogs in her size range. She was inquisitive but not aggressive, an appropriate reaction. “Yappers” made her anxious. Even though she is a terrier, she is mellow at home. The trainer had advised that a high energy dog might amp up Gracie. It would certainly terrify the cats.

I left the fair with more ideas of what my work with our family. I had also gained valuable information from one of the rescue groups. It turns out that they will let you take a dog home for the weekend, so you can see if all the family members are happy together. Then, if all goes well, you can finalize the adoption.

I also have reconciled myself to the fact that Gracie may not find someone she likes. She may prefer to be the only dog. I will continue to update this blog as we determine what to do.

Rescue Mommy