Just a little visitor....

I don't feel that I need to actually even say these words here, but I will.  I still miss my Annie dog more than I ever thought I could miss a pet.  She's still with the vet.  Still working on her miracle.  She has made improvements.  She still can't walk.  She still can't express her bladder on her own.  But she's trying.  I've seen videos from the vet of Annie attempting to stand on her own and these are definitely improvements.  She still has a long road...

Still the best dog.  Ever.

In the meantime, yesterday, a friend posted a picture of a dog that was up for adoption.  The dog immediately sparked my attention.  It is a small dog, around 10 pounds and just about 5 years old.  It is a Bischon/Poodle mix who's owner has had some health problems and is no longer able to care for the dog.

I reached out to my friend about the dog and found out its owner is a relative of mine.  I don't know the direct link, all I know is it goes through my dad.  I have a hard time remembering any relationships outside of first (maybe second) cousins.

Things were starting to fall into place with this dog.  The dog is somewhat related to me.  The dog's name is "Chloe".  Seth's dear dog that we lost several years ago was Chloe...

I didn't want to commit to an official adoption of this dog.  My head wants a dog in the house again.  My heart says, "But what would Annie think....?"  My friend assured me that if I felt it wouldn't work with this dog, or when it was time for Annie to come home, I wouldn't have any trouble finding another home for this dog. 

After I got the okay, we decided to make the call and foster the dog.  I say foster, because I really want to get my Annie dog back.  And if she comes back, I don't want her to feel like she's been replaced. 

But if Annie doesn't come back.... I don't even want to finish that thought.

So this morning, I head to pick up the little dog.  As I got closer to the vet my heart started to sink.  I've had mixed emotions about this the whole time but getting close to the clinic brought it out.  My little Annie dog is in there..... Maybe I should go see her.  No, that won't help Annie and it won't help me... But how can I walk in there and pick up a different dog and just leave Annie. 

Well.  That's where Annie needs to be.  I don't have enough ability to help or care for her at this point.  She is loved there.  They are giving her everything that she needs, including love.

I made it clear to the folks at the vet that all I wanted was my Annie dog back... But in the meantime, maybe I could give the love I have for my Annie to a dog who needs it.

So I walked in and shortly after walked out with this little Chloe.

She is a very sweet dog.  She was timid and confused but is already settling in at our house.  She sniffed everywhere and I know she can still smell Annie.  She spent an extra amount of time sniffing around my side of the bed - Annie used to sleep under my side of the bed.... She has been sweet to the boys and very sweet to me and now she's curled up in the new little bed I bought her right beside me in the kitchen.

We will take care of this dog and give her a home.  I know we will get attached.  But if sweet Annie comes back, this little sweet girl might have to find another new place to go.  But for now... she's content.