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Am I selfish getting puppies while I am in remission?
Cancer | Last Active: Dec 13 6:48pm | Replies (62)Comment receiving replies
Hi Isadora2021! It's been a while since you posted this so I wanted to check in to see what you decided. I happen to be the "mother" to labradoodles myself - one just turned 11, the other is a spunky 8 month old.
We'd not really planned on a new puppy this year but after our 10 year old doodle, who came to us when she was 2 and was a therapy dog at a local children's hospital, died after a sudden illness this past February, my heart was so broken that my husband indulged me. That was pre-diagnosis for me. It was while I was participating in Canine Good Citizen training (I'd hired a trainer for a few one-on-one visits over the summer) that I underwent my evaluation and diagnostics but we completed the course as it's my hope this pup, too, will someday be a therapy dog at a hospital - perhaps the very one where I'm undergoing treatment!
BUT, I do have to say, it's been a journey. Raising a puppy takes work, dedication and patience - the latter of which I have to admit I have more of than my husband! These puppy days - that can last upwards of two years - can be exhausting, but it's true that the companionship and love provides a tremendous bond.
I can add here, too, I know of several people who have satisfied their longing for canine companionship by fostering dogs from area kennels. That way they're helping to care for dogs who are awaiting their forever homes and doing so on their own time at their convenience. A win-win all around.
Hope you're doing well and have found peace with whatever you've decided!
Replies to "Hi Isadora2021! It's been a while since you posted this so I wanted to check in..."
@grammato3 I’m so sorry to hear of your diagnosis. Wishing you the very best with your treatment with the support of your husband and dogs!! Gorgeous photo 😊🐾
I did go ahead with taking both Lulu and Benji, and I’ve not regretted doing so. You are so right! It sure has been a LOT of hard work, love and infinite patience to raise 2 mischievous intelligent little imps. They are coming up to 6 months in a couple of weeks and sometimes it’s very daunting thinking of the challenges in ongoing training ahead as they get bigger and stronger. Time has flown and they’re growing so fast.
They are both such lovely natured dogs and socialise so well with other dogs, and love people. They’re a pleasure to take out.
It has been amazing how things work out. My best friend since University days, and who is my executor, helps with advice and also walking one pup with me on some Sunday mornings. He recently offered to take them, if needed. I cried. I couldn’t wish for a better home for them if needed. It sure has taken an underlying worry off my mind.
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"Raising a puppy takes work, dedication and patience"
Very true. My daughter and son-in-law are living with us temporarily, and they got a beautiful Australian Shepherd puppy in August. They do all the primary care, but at 5½ months now she's a supernova of energy (until she suddenly collapses from exhaustion).
I'm tolerating my "forever" cancer meds very well, but just helping out a little every day knocks me back; I realise I couldn't possibly handle primary care for a puppy 24/7 (at least not an active, herding breed like her).