I took the children to our local Humane Society Friday morning. We toured the facility and the staff discussed various things the children could volunteer to do for the animals. My kids loved the cat room. When we walked into the room, my 11 year old son was surrounded by dozens of cats, who were vying for his attention. Our family cat avoids him so he was thrilled!
We next traveled to the dog yards outside to visit with the dogs. Before we left, I promised my husband that I would not bring a dog home. We can't afford a dog at this time. The first dog yard contained two golden labs that looked very similar to our two golden labs that died last summer. I reminded myself that we can't get a dog now. The dogs are too big for our home. We passed on to other dogs.
Three yards down, we see a very friendly dog who is not barking, just wagging his tail and licking everyone in sight. This dog looks very similar to our black "mutt" that died last summer. (we had three dogs die within 3 months) This dog is not too big for our home. He's well mannered, housebroken, loves children. I remind the children that we can't get a dog right now and move them to the next yard. We meet about a dozen dogs and I remain firm. No dog.
The last yard we visit contains a very sweet golden lab. She's very small for a lab. My little girls exclaim, "It's Pokey! She didn't die!" Actually, this dog looks and acts like Gumby, who was Pokey's little mate. The dog approaches me. She sits at my feet and wags her tail. Her soft brown eyes shine with good will. I want this dog. I pick up my cell phone to call Mike. No answer. The kids and I play with this dog, who is patient, friendly and very well mannered. I try to call Mike again. Still no answer.
It's time to leave, so I tear the children away from the Gumby-look-alike. We don't bring her home.
About an hour later, Mike returns my call. I ask him to bring home a lease and collar for our new dog. He laughs, not sure if I'm serious or not. I string him along for a short time and then confess that I didn't get the dog. He reminds me that we can't get a dog right now. I offer to get him the dog for his birthday present, because he mom would never let him get a dog for his birthday. We are still don't have a dog.
That night I mention to Mike that the children and I are volunteering our time at the Humane Society on Tuesday. He says that he needs to remember NOT to answer his phone on Tuesday.
3 comments:
Boy, you are good. I would have caved! That's why I can't go to the humane shelter!
Eight years ago, I promised my 5 year old son a dog of his own when he reached 13. He will be 14 in December and is teasing me for breaking my promise. Maybe in the spring, I'll be able to keep my promise.
Eight years ago, I promised my 5 year old son a dog of his own when he reached 13. He will be 14 in December and is teasing me for breaking my promise. Maybe in the spring, I'll be able to keep my promise.
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