Tuesday, August 2, 2016

Our little Hazelnut

In November we had to say goodbye to our beloved Daisy girl. For the past 8 months we have missed her tremendously, but considered that as the girls get busier with activities, throwing a puppy and a newborn into the mix would be biting off more than we could probably chew. So, we reached out to the Golden Retriever Rescue to hopefully get a little older dog and by-pass the work that goes into the "puppy stage." 

We found multiple dogs we fell in love with, but they either couldn't be with families with young children, had to have round-the-clock care, or had to be adopted into a home with another dog that could assist in their rehabilitation. We considered adopting a pair of sweet brothers that couldn't be split up, but as much as we love goldens, these 90+ lb. beauties would have been far too much for us.

As we considered more and more the possibility that we just weren't meant to have another dog right now, I saw how much Mark missed his midnight snacking companion. How Grace missed her protector each time she goes down in the basement. How Emma misses having a dog to read to or Norah having a furry playmate. There is a void. Daisy was our therapy after a long day, our sense of security, our constant companion. With the possibility looming that we may have a few tough months ahead of us, I can't fathom the girls not having this type of therapy readily available to them. This unconditional love that doesn't ask them, "how they are doing" or "if they're ok" because there is already an innate sense that things are not ok. Dogs know your pain. They feel your anxiety. They keep your secrets. They listen to your woes. They don't ask questions. They don't judge.

They provide unconditional comfort, love and support. 


Meet, Hazel. She is naughty by nature, however, this is far surpassed by her love of cuddles and playful spirit. After only a few days she has settled in nicely. As much as I didn't think I was ready for another dog, especially a puppy, I have no doubt now that she's here, that this was a good choice for us. The girls have taken on all of the responsibility. Though I know the novelty will wear off, they are doing great with house breaking her, walking her and starting to train her. She is curious, mischievous, and eager to please. Welcome to the family, Hazel May!

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