Monday, March 2, 2009

Sugar, Sugar

I have been thinking for a LONG time about getting a dog. I recently got more involved with Austin Pets Alive, participating in a recent fundraiser, making some donations, submitting an application for a severely injured dog, etc. When the injured dog ended up in another home, it was bittersweet. I was glad she found a loving home and a family that will care for her long-term challenges, and I was sad it wasn't going to be me caring for her.

So, I secretly started going to view the dogs they have for adoption - first on the website, then in person. And yesterday was my lucky day!

This sweet girl was rescued by APA from Town Lake where she was on the list to be euthanized, as are just about all of their animals in their care. APA had named her "Lovey" & she's a smallish dog, about the size of a whippet, 35-40 lbs, and has a long body (probably dachshund, but her legs aren't that short) and her ears when she's excited are huge (probably chihuahua or rat terrier), and possibly some other breeds as well. She first caught my eye because she's blonde & freckled, and she made me laugh because she likes to burrow under blankets. She's crate & house trained, and is really shy. She doesn't bark as far as I can tell, and is probably about 2 years old.

I'll enroll us in an obedience class so that she walks more controlled on a leash (she's very puppy-like), and it should also help with her socialization and confidence (and my confidence, too!). She loves to be held and is very afraid of stairs - I have stairs both outside and inside, so I'm hoping I can help her be brave. She's very submissive which means I won't have any dominance issues with her, but it breaks my heart because I fear she was probably abused at some point. I do know that the last 2 months of her life must have been incredibly scary.

The kitties are cautiously aware she's here, and there's only been moderate hissing from Lucy (she's the alpha of my pet family).

I've decided to rename her Sugar since she's really a sweet, sweet dog. I feel very lucky to have her in my family, and I hope you all get to meet her.

Welcome home, Sugar!

9 comments:

Unknown said...

Congrats! She looks sweet, sweet.

MW said...

woof!

Slingshot said...

what cutie! She couldn't have found a better home.

Driver said...

You've truly inspired me to make a next pup a rescue. Congrats!!

Buzz said...

Hector and Sugar could be related. They need a puppy play date.

KP said...

I was thinking the same thing that Buzz said. You may need to start an Elizabethan Beagles of Austin Club. Super cute lil' gal - she's found a great place to call home!

Unknown said...

I'm really looking forward to meeting Sugar!!! Hopefully she and the cats eventually become friends!

Anonymous said...

I am so proud of my new grand! We are looking forward to keeping her when you travel. I need a brag book for all of my grandpets! MOM

Missychel said...

I love her already!!