Monday, January 27, 2014

Valentino.


If you've been following along with me on Instagram, you already know that over the weekend we acquired a new pint-sized member of our household. Today I wanted to share a bit about our first few days with this little love bug and how life has already changed because of him.

The decision to bring another dog into our home after Dylan's passing was one we struggled with for many months. When would it be the right time? Would it ever feel like right time? I think The Mister came around a little earlier than I did, but somewhere between Thanksgiving and Christmas I felt ready- ready to once again hear the pitter patter of paws on our wood floors. So we slowly began to search for a dog that would be a good fit for us. 

Unfortunately, we would come to the table with a bit of baggage. I didn't discuss it much here on the blog, but the last few years with Dylan were a heartbreaking spell of intensive care taking, behavior changes, specialists and expensive vet bills. We put off trips we wanted to take and dinners out with friends to stay home, keep him comfortable and healthy for as long as we were given with him. So, we were still a bit leery of taking on a young puppy or adopting a dog from a shelter that may come with his own set of problems. That said, we were still considering these options and others when The Mister came to me with an ad for Valentino.


We spent some time with both Valentino and his family, getting to know a little more about him and the circumstances that were unfortunately resulting in his adoption out of his first home. This loving family tried everything to prevent it from happening, but they had an allergy issue to contend with and decided it was for the best. I can't imagine having to make that decision. 

Luckily, we got a call back that they decided we'd be a good fit for their boy. We had a week to prepare and we were giddy and anxious throughout. A new bed and toys were selected and sat ready to welcome him home. It was a roller coaster mix of emotions the night we exchanged him, but his remarkable reaction once we brought him through the door put us at ease. 


He ran with intention throughout every room in the house, inspecting, getting his bearings. Then toys were found and playtime ensued. He claimed his new bed and slept soundly his first night with us. We could not believe it.



Throughout the weekend, he and I puttered about the back yard together. I grabbed the rake and worked one side to the other, watching as he explored and found just the right patch of sun to sprawl out in. In these initial days, we spent time observing and taking queues from one another. We already learned quite a bit about what makes him happiest. Though we left the patio doors wide open and gave him free reign, we realized quickly that he wanted to be wherever we were.  He rushes to the fridge each time he hears the ice machine, anxious for a small cube or two that might fall on the floor (and he's not shy about asking for one from your glass). Valentino plays hard and quickly tires, rolling on his back for a belly rub if you're willing. He's curious and inspects and falls into sleep quickly, snoring like no other being I've ever heard. 


By the time our parents arrived for a visit on Saturday afternoon, we had already fallen into a comfortable cadence. It was as if he'd always been here with us. By Sunday evening, he was curled up in my lap, head burrowed under my arm, snoring away. I was in heaven. He was trusting enough to jump up on his own and reassured me that he was adjusting ok. It felt like the ship was righted somehow. I don't think the hole Dylan left behind will ever close. But, in just these first couple of days, our little family has already found balance once again.  


More than anything, I hope sweet Valentino has found some balance during this weekend transition and realizes that we are here to give him a good life with us. I can not tell you how lucky we feel to have him.

SHARE:

5 comments

jackie jade said...

oh my goodness - there are tears in my eyes. this is SO sweet. valentino is super adorable (and I love when pups lay with their legs crossed hehe - too cute!) so sorry to hear about your problems with Dylan towards the end and of course the hole will never be filled. but I know us doggy lovers can never be too long with an empty home. congrats on your lovely new pup!!
-- jackie - jade and oak

Unknown said...

This post made my heart ache and smile all at once. I am so happy you have found a new best friend, knowing that he will never replace your old one. Yay! Can't wait to see more of sweet Valentino :)

xoxo,
Emily
www.mainstreetchic.blogspot.com

Hannah said...

Tears welled up in my eyes! This is soooo sweet. I am a huge dog lover and our dog is such a huge part of our family, I can't imagine life without her or ever moving on from her. I am so glad Valentino has brought harmony back to your house. He is adorable and he seems like the perfect fit!

Albertina M. Cisneros said...

I love the first photo! I pinned its such a goody! Valentino is blessed to have you both as parents. He can't even begin to imagine what a wonderful home he is in! And the parties he will presence! Oh my!! I look forward to reading about your adventures together.

Unknown said...

Pure love and so excited to read of more adventures! Xoxo!

© Holtwood Hipster. All rights reserved.
Blogger Templates by pipdig