I did something yesterday that I honestly thought that I would never do. Maybe it was the high from my fun weekend or maybe just the motherly instinct to do whatever we think is best for our kids. Either way it was extremely atypical. We bought Joseph a puppy for his birthday. I have been anti-pet ever since we got married and Ben has agreed. We thought that kids were enough on their own and adding pets was, well, CRAZY. They are stinky and needy and expensive. So why would we want a pet? Until the night before last night we didn't...ever. But we were talking about what Joseph wanted for his Birthday and a dog came up. It was the weirdest thing, Ben and I got kind of into it and started talking about it and looking at dogs online. Then it hit me how good a dog would be for him. For all the normal reasons like teaching responsibility and compassion for other living things, but this went further. Joseph struggles socially, he is likable, but he doesn't always understand social situations and how to get involved. So he places the love that should be given to friends onto stuffed animals. Although there is nothing wrong with this, we really wanted him to have a more reciprocal relationship. I honestly think this experience was largely due to the spirit. Trust me, this is not something Ben or I would have willingly done on our own.
Although I have had moments of "What was I thinking" and "Why did I agree to this" I have to admit that our little Shivers is adorable. And for a puppy quite easy (so far). He hardly makes any sound, he is very calm but still playful and lovable. There have been a few accidents in the house, which I will never be OK with, but I am not freaking out like you might expect me to in that situation.
Most importantly Joseph is loving having a dog. I know that he has only had him for a day and some of this enthusiasm is bound to wear off, but I really think having Shivers is going to do a lot for Joseph.
If you are really interested you can see a couple video here.
3 comments:
Oh my Heck! He is so cute. I love cute little animals. It is the taking care of them that freaks me out. Sounds like you did the best thing for your child. Joseph is so lucky to have such great parents.
I knew you would see the need for animals in your house! No better reason than to Help your children understand so much!!! YOU ARE BOTH AWESOME!!! I hope this will be a very positive experience. NO to mention that you made me feel great asking me for advise, Mrs Independant.
You two are very brave! The dog is adorable and I hope that he can help Joseph. We have contemplated getting a puppy for Caden, but haven't convinced ourselves just yet. I think that it's great that you were willing to do this for your son.....you are both great parents!
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