We hadn’t exactly planned on getting a new puppy quite so quickly. I was thinking about getting one in the spring. An English Shepherd was my first choice, but they’re relatively hard to come by. I was toying with maybe a Rough Collie, my used-to-be favorite breed. But then we lost Copper and I suddenly found my eye on a litter of Corgis due to be weaned in October. A Corgi would be similar to Mouse’s beloved Copper in size, but with more of a heart for home and family than scent and trail.
But sometimes, you just find your dog (or rather, your daughter finds her dog) and you discover life has other plans.
I mean seriously. What mother consents to a puppy six weeks before she herself is due? And what father decides to drive two hours out of his way on an already lengthy drive home from South Dakota in order to pick up a puppy? But by Nebraska City, the little English Shepherd already had a name: Faithful. And after introducing her to her kennel, Mouse pulled out a sleeping bag and slept on the floor right next to her.
Already on her first day with us, she wiggled her way into all our hearts. True to her name, however, she proved herself most faithful to Mouse who couldn’t so much as go to the restroom without her furry little shadow tapping along behind her. Faithful even pitched in and helped with chores, carrying firewood down to our wood pile.
And after chores, a good snuggle. I love that little Faithful sports glasses, same as her new mommy.
And then nap time.
Getting her used to her new role as all around companion dog, we took Faithful into town on a quick errand. Mouse held her quietly most of the way, but a single question as we pulled into the grocery store’s parking lot revealed her thoughts.
“Mom, I hope Faithful dies of old age.”
Me too, Sweetheart. Me too.
Welcome to Roscommon Acres, my little home in the country. I write here about life more abundantly, from the joy of a baby’s smile to the almost unbearable grief of losing a son. I am seeking beauty instead of ashes, the oil of joy instead of mourning, a garment of praise instead of the spirit of despair (Isaiah 61:3).
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So sweet. I hope you have many long happy years together!
Aahh, puppy breathe! Awesome pictures and looks (and sounds) like awesome dog and an awesome new friendship blooming. I too pray for many long years together for you all. Also would like to tell you that I think you write very well.
I remember when we brought our puppy (now 4 years old), Sonny, home. He would curl up in the legs of our Border Collie at night and annoy him by chewing his tail during the day. Enjoyable times, to say the least!!
OK, you have me tearing up already. Looks like a perfect match for everyone. Congrats on your new addition.
Beautiful! God bless.
Very sweet. Have fun with your new family member.
Hi Dana!
Just letting you know I nominated you for a blog award. Check out my last blog link for details.
I raised seven children and they all had dogs. I never became attached myself, not being an animal lover. But I really enjoyed watching my children love them. Your beautiful pictures reminded me of those long gone days of letting children lead the way and learn to love. I hope he dies of old age too.
I have an award for you over at my blog.
Oh my gosh, how adorable, and congratulations! Don’t worry about being six weeks until your’re due, we got our puppy last year right after my cancer surgery. Worst possible timing, I couldn’t even hold a leash! Things have a way of sorting themselves out, and she was fabulous therapy, and it looks like you’ll have a very devoted caretaker for Faithful close at hand. Wish you all many many happy years together.
Thanks, Phyllis and Sheri. I had wanted to post something over the weekend but, well, I had a lot of things to do over the weekend and didn’t get to posting anything at all.
I came across your blog form a different (more recent
) post, but I had to go read more once I saw you had an English Shepard puppy. We also have an ES, really close to the same age – ours was born June 26th, and he is a tri color. I look forward to seeing your pup grow in her house full of kids and chores, just as our does!