Is It Time? Its Time!

Is it time for another dog?
I thought it would be many, many months before the answer would be "yes."

Is it time for another dog now?
The answer has shocked me (and Danny). But yes.
Danny and I are thrilled at the prospect.

I have been quite touched by many of you who have expressed understanding of our loss of BamBam. Thank you for your cards, and expressions of love. So many folks here in my community have affirmed me in ways that God has used to help me grieve with perspective and experience healthy healing.

I can get teary-eyed pretty quickly over talking about BamBam and missing him still. But I've also noticed that both Danny and I aren't looking to replace BamBam, we are people who want and have the lifestyle that includes the love of a dog.

We have put in an application and got approval from the DC/NoVA Lab Rescue for adoption of a chocolate lab. Its been a little nerve racking --- I cannot even imagine the ups/downs that people go through for child adoptions! (Catrina I think of your family).

I was perusing the site last Thursday and instantly fell in love with "Bear." We head up this Saturday to Alexandria to meet him and if all works out, bring him into our home and hearts. He sounds perfect for us.  I'm glad to understand that I've got love to give another dog. And the thought of "rescuing" a dog feels different than just getting another dog.

Meet "Bear" (from the website) ---

Bear is a 7 year old neutered chocolate male. He is up to date on his shots and is heartworm negative. He is good with other dogs and is approved for kids aged 10 and up. He weighs 77 lbs. He is 100% happy, happy lab. He loves treats and would be a great ball player. He jumps up to greet you but that's just excitement.

Update from Bear's foster family 3/7/2011:

It's been three weeks since Bear came home with me.  He is really starting to show his true character.  He is always happy and has great energy for a 7 year old (I'm beginning to wonder if he really is 7).  We go for several walks a day, but ideally he would enjoy a home with a fenced back yard.  He loves to run and sniff around the back yard and all around the neighborhood.  He is a smart dog and eager to please (and very food driven).  He has great house manners and knows when it’s time to settle down.  He does think he’s a lap dog (I don’t mind).  He does this thing when I first sit down on the couch.  He takes his head and buries it behind my back, with his tail in the air wagging.  Sometimes I think he’s telling me, “You finally sat down”.  

Bear is a great looking dog (the pictures don’t do him justice).  He is very stocky (and all muscle).  He has a beautiful shinny coat and great teeth.  He gets more looks and compliments during our walks in the neighborhood and our visits to the pet store. 

He also loves to ride in the car, and knows "let's go for a ride".  He goes straight to the car and jumps right in.  He moves around a lot in the beginning, but knows what I mean when I say "get in the back".  After a few minutes he settles down and enjoys the ride. 

He sleeps through the night without any trouble.  Last night he did whine a little, but I soon realized it was because he didn’t have his new toy with him.  He likes to sleep on his favorite toys (and my shoes). 

This weekend we went to a farm where he was around other dogs, horses, and cats.  He did great around the dogs and even the horses, but a little too curious around the cats.  I think he sees them as moving toys.  I think he needs to be in a home without cats.