There was no doubt in my mind that the energy that was exerted by our kids, and the promises that they made (with good intentions, I’m sure) in their efforts to persuade us, would quickly evaporate once the victory was achieved. I knew that having a dog would require more attention than our boys truly understood or were truly willing to give. I knew that their dedication to a dog would conflict with after-school activities, with time spent with friends, and certainly with last minute plans. I knew that any training we did would fall on my shoulders. I knew that any accidents Baxter would have inside the house would require my immediate and sole attention. I even knew that I would eventually have to pick up his poop. Life, as I knew it, would never be the same if we were to become pet owners. Any spontaneity we had would succumb to making sure we were home for feedings, for walking, for playtime, and for turning on the lights.
I now even know what you’re thinking…. If I knew all that, then what was I thinking when I agreed to a dog????
Here’s what I didn’t know….
I didn’t know that my attachment to him would be immediate, and his to me.
I definitely didn’t know that a grown man could be reduced to all fours in a matter of seconds, even if he’s wearing a jacket and tie.
I didn’t know that a “welcome home” from a dog, even if it were a trip to the mailbox, would be like no other.
I didn’t know that the accomplishment of a game of “fetch” would be as exciting as the day your child first learned to ride his bike. And the simple exercise of giving his paw to your son would be like watching two kids become friends.
I didn’t know that daily walks would become a welcome ritual, or an uninterrupted time for parent-child bonding.
I didn’t know that we were just about the only family in the neighborhood without a dog.
I didn’t know that a dog was a way to meet just about every family in our neighborhood.
I didn’t know that “puppy-dog eyes” really do exist, and truly do pull at your heartstrings.
I didn’t know that I would prefer having Baxter ride along rather than leaving him home.
I didn’t know that I would be arranging doggy-dates out of concern that Baxter would become bored or unfulfilled.
I certainly didn’t know that a 60lb dog could easily fit in a king-sized bed, right in between the spouses. And I never would have guessed that Baxter would be welcomed in that same bed by the same tie-and-jacket-guy-on-all-fours! I should have known.
I didn’t know how much pleasure I would get watching Baxter run around the house with the boys, never minding that he would scratch the floors or they would break something. It’s all replaceable.
I didn’t know that a dog could really be a boy’s best friend.
I didn’t know that a standard veterinarian’s visit could cost so much, but then not minding when told that he’s fine.
I didn’t know just how much satisfaction I would get knowing that Baxter would prefer to follow me anywhere, especially when someone else is vying for his attention.
I didn’t know that the day would come that we would find my mother sitting next to Baxter on the sofa with his paw on her and her paw scratching his head.
I didn’t know that our family picture would be incomplete without Baxter in it.
I didn’t know that you could talk to a dog. And I certainly didn’t know that they could understand.
I just didn't know.....
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