I Wonder What the Cat will Say?

Nameless Black Puppy Boy
Dec- 2013 - 3 Weeks Old
Mama Yellow Lab in the background.

So, we are getting a puppy.  Hazel, our yellow lab, is 11.5 years young so we decided it is time to add a new member to the family.  The nameless little black puppy boy comes home tomorrow with papers, a pedigree, and a dirty little face.  Meet nameless black puppy boy~

The house is ready.  We have a large dog kennel propped up in the corner partitioned off to puppy size.  Chew toys, puppy shampoo, treats, collar and leash all rest in a basket awaiting their owner.  We have had 6 weeks to get ready for him but we still can't decide on a name.  Four of us agree on a couple of different names, but there is always one lone wolf in the pack thwarting our naming efforts with Veto power (I swear his name will end up being Veto).

This doesn't have a lick to do with food, I know.  We are not going to eat the puppy, nor are we going to let him join us at the table, but health is a multifaceted application.  Joy. Love. Affection. Kindness. Consideration.  Exercise. Boundaries. A spouse, child, friend, relative, neighbor, or a dog can bring all of these essential ingredients to the table.

Jan, 2014 - 5.5 weeks old

I am not suggesting you run out and get a dog, but if you are thinking about adding a member to your family there are several avenues to consider.  Save a Lab, ASPCA, your local animal adoption league, shelter, or reputable breeder.  During our search we were even introduced to a breed we'd never heard of before called the Pudelpointer; our friends actually breed them come to find out (Lone Pine Pudelpointers, in AL).  We have also spent a lot of time spying on my sisters kennel (Rockhaven English Springer Spaniels) in Wisconsin via Facebook.  Puppy planning is a labor of love;  one rewarded in puppy breath and unconditional companionship.

Monday I will get back to real, naturally occurring food, I will discuss the importance of water, I may even present a vitamin or two.  Until then I will be playing on the floor with puppies, laughing at our children as they witness silly milestones, teaching manors and cleaning up accidents.  Don't worry, I will certainly remember to wash my hands...
Have a Great Weekend!


Anna~