For the past few days, a lively, four-year-old chocolate Labrador Retriever named Lola has been staying at my house while her owner is out of town. We’ve been wrestling and racing; she licks me a lot, and I scratch her ears. Even now, she’s nudging me with her toy, trying to get me to play tug of war.
And if you promise not to tell her owner, I’ll let you in on a little secret. I even let her sleep with me.
I have been around lots of dogs over the past two months since Precious died. In fact, I’ve even gone over to a friends’ house JUST to play with their Golder Retriever, Brewster, as part of my grieving process. There’s something about a dog running circles around my feet that warms my heart. But I wasn’t sure how I’d do having another dog in my house, especially a dog who looks so similar to my old girl.
But in fact, the past several days have been wonderful. Lola shares many of Precious’ best qualities, and though I wish more than anything I could just have Precious back, I am overjoyed to know that there are other really great dogs out there. Maybe even one dog who could help fill the hole Precious left when she died.
I don’t think I’m ready to take the plunge quite yet, but maybe someday soon. And I might even get another Labrador Retriever. Maybe.
TFTD – Rescuing a dog is a great idea – one I am seriously considering. I figure once I decide it’s time, and once I have a good idea what breed, I can begin looking at shelters or even rescue organizations. And also, pray that just the right dog comes along. That’s how Precious came to me.
Stacy – So glad to see you here! You SHOULD get a black lab. Labs in general just have the best personalities. You would definitely have a new best friend. Happy New Year!
Craver – It is fun to play with other people’s dogs, but a dog of your own . . . I think you’d love it. Here’s wishing you a great new dog for the new year!
I have to report that Lola went home this evening, and I already miss her. It was really fun to have a dog following me around again.
Ann – I think I was like a favorite aunt. I hope Lola learns to sleep in her own bed again at home, though.
TSS – I am so glad to hear your story of a second Lab. I think you’re right; I probably will always make comparisons. But that doesn’t mean another dog won’t be just as great. Just different.
If you go to the pound or animal rescue sights there are wonderful ‘friends’ to adopt. It would be a blessing to both of you. When you are ready, you don’t have to do the puppy stage. blessings to you…in the new year.
She’s pretty. Too bad there isn’t such a thing as a chocolate and peanut butter lab. 😉
My family has been bugging me to get a dog, but I’m holding out still. Right now, it is enough for me to play with other people’s dogs.
Blessings to you in this new year, Charity.
Well hello! I was going through comments on my blog for the year and came across your name. 😉 I do read your blog in my reader, I just don’t comment as much.
I want a black lab SOOOO bad! Or a yorkie. I guess I could have both, but my husband says the yorkie would be snack food for a lab. We’re waiting for the right time and such. They are great dogs, though. Blessings! Hope your Christmas was wonderful and I hope your new year is blessed. Stacy@entertaining-angels.
What a face! Our “baby” lab (now three, and finally using his brain)is a different color than our old girl (who used her brain at a much younger age) which helps hold the comparisons down, but they’re still there….hers will always be big shoes (paw prints) that will never be truly filled…but that’s o.k., I think. Lots of happy similarities among labs though!
How fun is that! You’re like these dogs’ favorite aunt–letting them get by with things they’d never be allowed to do at home! 🙂