Back when I was in college, I went to the shelter to find a cat for a friend. I had no idea that my life was about to change. I fell in love. The dog was just 10 weeks old and stole my heart. It was not ideal timing, but she has been the best dog I could have asked for.
Chelsea has been by my side throughout my entire adult life. She was with me when I was single, and finding my way in the world. She was understanding that I had a job to go to, and I was understanding that she wanted time with me too…so I was the girl that left happy hour early, or didn’t go because I had my puppy waiting at home for me. I loved having her there when I returned home. Just me and her, but it was a great little family.
Then Joe came along. Being in another state, he stole me away on the phone every night. Chelsea pouted and refused to lay down on the bed with me until I hung up. She’d wait under the bed letting me know she was annoyed.
When Joe and I were finally in the same state, same house, Chelsea was so happy. She let him fit right into our already started family. She had a new playmate and loved it so very much.
When we expanded the family to include Moose, Chelsea was a little annoyed again. We had to keep them separated for a few months while Chelsea warmed up to the new addition- she’s not a dog fan really.
Again, though…she was accepting. Moose and Chelsea are now the best of friends. They play together, snuggle together, and give each other kisses.
When we were talking about bringing a baby into the family, we knew the dogs would be accepting again. We knew they’d love her and play with her and kiss her. We had no worries at all. In the months leading up to Caroline’s arrival, we set up the high chair, and the playard. We set up Caroline’s room and allowed the dogs in. They sniffed at her toys and we taught them what was off limits. They had several months of just being around her things and getting used to all the new “stuff”. Moose would lay his head on my belly, and it made me so happy. I knew that he was going to be a great big brother, and that Chelsea was going to be the best big sister ever.
Chelsea is turning 10 this summer. I am so happy that she is getting to be a part of this special time in my life. She has taken on a motherly role with Caroline and checks on her to make sure everything is ok. When she cries, Chelsea can sense that it bothers me, and I know it bothers her too…she gets up watches as if to ask what she can do. Moose is more of the sibling- always wanting to play with her. He is going to have a blast with her once she is mobile!
The dogs have been so patient with us, as they don’t get as much exercise anymore. I think it all worked out great though, as they have company during the day. They used to have to wait on mama and daddy to come home for some attention. Now, I am home with Caroline with quick little outings here and there. So, they might not get as many walks right now (it is near impossible for me to take both of them and Caroline out all by myself), but when daddy has time we take them for a stroll in the evenings. They have been so amazing. I couldn’t have asked for a better transition.
When we brought Caroline home, it honestly felt as if she’d always been here. The dogs were not overly excited, nor were they annoyed or jealous. They just loved her as if they always had. Maybe it’s because we transitioned them and put her things out for several months before her arrival, or maybe they just knew what was about to happen. Either way, our family is so perfect. I love watching them interact with one another, and love looking through the photos and finding tails, ears, paws, noses, etc photo bombing all over the place! They are always near by and always happy.