I have grown up liking dogs and cats, but I could not keep one growing up because of allergies that developed. My wife had a dog when we were dating and I learned that I had to see if keeping her and the dog would work. After spending an hour together with the little puppy, and not having watery eyes or the triggering sneezes, I found that we got along just fine, and later came to experience a love I never imagined was possible for me: pet love.
Our little boy – we call him Izzy – is a Maltese poodle mix. He and I enjoy spending time together, whether sharing love through belly rubs and licking kisses, or taking naps or road trips. My wife had him from the very early puppy stages, and I became his papa since we married. We have been through a lot at first, their moving across town to live with me, and getting used to a new environment; but it all worked out in time and with my wife’s helpful coaching.
I had a new set of responsibilities to get used to. Realizing that our little one could not pick up after himself, I took on the task. I set up a place in one of our bathrooms where he could eat and drink and use it when he needs to. I try to clean the bathroom weekly to keep from having pooping problems in other places. We also make sure we have plenty of food and treats for Izzy to keep him going along with us. As a hypoallergenic breed he doesn’t shed, we just make sure he gets groomed every six weeks. We like to call it his spa day.
One remarkable thing about pets is they give love unconditionally. As long as we care for them and give them attention, the returns of love and affection are very great. I am enjoying life a little better than I ever imagined with our pint-sized package of wonderful. Thank you Kim for introducing me to Izzy and thank you Izzy for introducing me to love in a different dimension. I never saw it coming, but I’m glad that it did.