Dogs, Like Babies, Often Come When Least Expected

Last week we found ourselves the somewhat unwitting owners of a new puppy.

We found her outside when we walked out to take a jaunt around the neighborhood.

As a kid, I always had dogs. They were the outdoor variety, but they were loved and well cared for. In fact my parents bred Shetland Sheepdogs for years.

I didn’t want my kids to grow up with a fear of dogs. Thankfully when my parents got a set of puppies several months ago, they were able to spend a lot of time with those dogs and watch them grow up. That helped a lot.

But, I feel the timing still isn’t right for this new addition. Although I do have a nice fenced backyard, I’m not sure I have the resources (money, energy, time, etc) for a new “baby”. Puppies require a lot of training (she has bitten me in play many times and has drawn blood – although it is getting much better). They need monthly vet visits (not something my budget allows presently). And I couldn’t bear it if something was terribly wrong later on and she required surgery.

This puppy is adorable but was likely abandoned. I’ve tried to find her owner through various means but no luck yet. I don’t have the heart to take her to the county shelter where I know there is a possibility she’ll be “put down”. So she’s ours for now. We’re reading up on puppy care and training, and giving her as much love and affection as we can.

It occurred to me today that dogs, like babies, often come when least expected. Anyone have suggestions on how to locate a loving home for Sally?