The Search for the Doggie Begins!

It has been ten years since Nikki, my darling and constant companion of nine years died of cancer. An Australian Blue Healer, curious, intelligent, and loyal, she made every day a happier experience.


See Nikki Here

I was heartbroken when she died. I was young, traveling the world and knew that getting a new dog at that stage of my life was not practical. And so I waited. Even after moving back to Chicago I was never really sure I was staying here, and I never felt completely settled. I bought a condo four years ago, but still didn't think having a dog suited my lifestyle.

Lately I've been paying attention to that hole in my heart created by living dog-free. I still don't know where life will take me, but being happy is an important part of being settled. And so, I'm going to get a dog.

Lauren and I took a trip to the PAWS Animal Shelter today, and I began my search.

So far, I am considering Skye - a beautiful Airedale/Collie mix



And Hudson - a very playful hound dog.




Skye has had a difficult life it seems. She's very timid and isn't overly fond of men. This picture doesn't do her justice - she's a graceful girl. She wasn't particularly affectionate, but I think in the right home environment - possibly mine- she'll come out of her shell. She's sweet, she was patient with her younger, extremely boisterous roommate, and was even willing to play with her. Skye showed great curiosity, and she even barks like a lady. According to the shelter, her personality is that of a wallflower:

Shy yet charming canine searching for patient owner with relaxed lifestyle. Looking for gentle guidance to help me come out of my shell. Treat me sweet and kind and I’ll blossom

Hudson is just a love. He's still got some puppy qualities about him, which although adorable, could make him a pain in the tuchas. I sat on the floor with him, and he came right over and brought toys to play with. At one point he had draped himself on my lap. Another concern is his bark. I haven't heard it, but he is a hound dog, and when he does have something to say, the neighbors six blocks down the street will know about it. Hudson's personality is that of a Busy Bee:

I’m a naturally playful, curious, and trusting canine. Take me for a big walk every day; give me something to do. After my job’s done, I’ll curl up in front of the fire with you in the evenings. I’m a dog on a mission to please you and myself.

The one dog I'm not considering is too new to the shelter to have a picture posted. He's a two-month old puppy named Roger. Roger was an extremely affectionate mix of I don't remember what. He is friendly and playful, yet not bubbling over with dopey doggie energy. He still has his pink puppy belly and that wonderful new-puppy smell. He nearly melted me when he crawled into my lap and put his head on my shoulder, his nose against my neck, and showed no interest in moving off. If I could handle the challenges of a puppy this young, Roger would have been an instant pick.

I didn't walk out of the shelter with a dog today, because the rules of this game are that before I can adopt I have to have a 24-hour cooling off period. I fall in love at first sight with most animals, and this, I'm hoping, will help me pick the right dog for my lifestyle in a more logical way. Besides, I'll need time to buy doggie necessities like a bed, food, toys, and bowls. I've already picked out a vet and am investigating dog walkers.

And speaking of toys, please hear me now: although I will allow my dog to remain a carnivore, he or she will NOT be chewing on pigs' ears. So don't bring me any. Got it?