Dogs...my first stuffed animal

I have my dog...in my living room. My first dog shares a spot in the house with our westie, Macy. It is now 50 years old! Mom told me that they looked all over for a dog -- a gift for my 2nd Christmas just after turning one! I have always loved dogs, I think it must be one of those things that are inbred in you. In the Chinese year I am a "dog."

I loved going to my sister Karen's to visit, to play with, cuddle with and just hang out with not only the family, but their dogs!!! Puntie was the first dog that we all loved in the family -- Puntie was a pug/dachshund mix, then came Kipper who, I believe, was part poodle, and was oohhh so spunky in her short life, then Misty, who a yellow lab and loved by all, and now Abby, a mix that loved to play with that tennis ball!!!

Our family was complimented to have Hadley enter our lives! We adopted Hadley from the Afton Humane Society in 1988. Amanda was just two years old, and we were in our new house! What fun we had with Hadley, our schnoodle -- schnauzer/poodle, he loved to run, and play, but always, always stayed safe (unlike our Macy...who needs a fence!). Hadley would protect Molly when she was born 2 years later. When I would be downstairs doing laundry, and Molly would cry, Hadley would come down and let me know she was crying. We had 14 years with Hadley and now a marker in our yard to remember him.

Macy, our west highland terrier is my baby!!! We were grieving Hadley, and our friend Cheryl said her sister's dogs just had puppies...we should see about adopting one of theirs. Off we went to visit, and fell in the love with the dog that was the smallest in the litter. She was soft, too, and still has a softer coat for a westie. She is still a smaller westie (which were bred with Cairn terries -- she looks more Cairn), and perfect for our family. You should never let the size of the dog fool you though, as she is as strong as any dog! When she wants to go, she will let those muscles rip and go flying...you can hardly contain her. She sees a squirrel -- she is outta here!!! She loves to play...loves to find treats hid in her little ponies, and like Hadley, plays hide & seek! We will grab one of her toys, throw it down the steps and run & hide. She runs around the house, just like Hadley did, to find us!

Our pets bring us much joy, and when we are sick, much comfort. They give plenty of kisses, and much loving. I can understand why I would want a dog as my one year old Christmas gift...we should always have a dog by our side!