A year ago today (okay okay, yesterday), I welcomed 4 fuzzy paws into my life, and it has not been the same since. Rue, my standard poodle is my first pet on my own. I grew up with Hoops the Wonder Dog, a bichon, who left us far too soon. So walking into this experience was one that I was nervous for. Was I ready to open my heart again to another dog? Or to have this responsibility?
I actually got Rue as “medicine” for my depression and anxiety, something that I have been struggling with since I was 14, with plenty of mountains and valleys of course. I felt like despite the medication I’ve been on, I needed something that would give me the additional push to get out of bed, to take care of myself, you know, by making me take care of something else. It’s funny thinking about it now because Rue has just as much anxiety as I do, but about different things. I for example enjoy alone time…Rue on the other hand can’t stand it, especially if it is not her choice which of course the neighbors just love (we’re working on it, haha).
I am forever grateful for my friend Sheila who introduced me to Mike at Regal Crest Canines in Menomonee Falls, for my roommate, Sierra, who went along with my crazy idea of getting a puppy (even though she is definitely a cat person), and for my parents who take on puppy sitting responsibilities while we work on Rue’s separation anxiety.
I can honestly tell you that it has not been easy to be a poodle parent, but it has been worth every second. Speaking of… enjoy a second or two of almost everyday of this past year below, and know that Rue and I are excited to see where this next year takes us.
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