Last month, on December 5th, we lost our little 12 year old dachshund that we’d had since his birth. It was absolutely devastating and if you would have asked me last month, I would of told you I would never again own another dog. The pain of losing a family pet is so hard and I didn’t want to go through that heartache again.
But, I realized that not having a dog around was incredibly difficult for me. Being at home during the day when everyone else is away, I missed the interaction. And the kids, they missed having a pup at home too. I toyed around with the idea in my head for a few days and finally told my husband I thought I was ready for another pet. I figured we would do some research, find the right breed, wait until winter passed (potty training in the cold is no fun, y’all), and then start actively looking.
And like usual, it didn’t go as planned. We went and met him one night and picked him up the next night! We are now the proud owners of a 4 month old Black Lab puppy named Oakley. I’ve never had a large breed dog and I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t a little apprehensive because well, lets face it, I am. He’s already triple the size of our last dog and he still has a lot of growing to do.
As excited as I am about our new addition, I can’t help but feel a little guilty for getting another dog so quickly. I know it’s silly, but as much as I miss Piccolo, I knew that the kids and I needed to move on. I’m not trying to replace what was, I’m just trying to move forward and I hate the way I’m feeling right now. I’m scared to love another dog and Oakley is hard not to love.
We’ve bought him toys, started the training process and he has already stolen our hearts. There is no turning back now.
Penelope (NYC Blogger) says
Oakley is such a gorgeous dog! I love his rich black color, simply gorgeous!
Crystal says
Thank you, Penelope! He’s fitting in just perfect around here.
Jenn says
So sweet! Don’t feel guilty. Piccolo would be glad you are giving another animal a good home just like you did for him.
Crystal says
I know, Jenn. I know it is silly to feel this way. Hopefully it passes soon.
Donna says
Oh m he is gorgeous! We have a Great Pyrenees (almost as large a breed as you can get) and she is a big ol’ sweetie. I love large breed dogs. That being said, we just got a Shih Tzu in December, so we have both extremes. And we’re not used to small breed, but already in love with him. 🙂
Crystal says
My grandparents used to have a Great Pyrenees and I remember just how huge he was. I was terrified of that dog LOL! I’ve had a Shih Tzu, such fun dogs.
Nichol says
Congratulations on your new family member, he is adorable. I know how you felt. After ETs passing the kids begged me for a kitten, but I just couldn’t do it. I finally decided right before Christmas I was ready.
Crystal says
Thanks, Nichol. We have to move on. It’s hard, but it has to be done.
Cindy Merrill says
Ask your Vet which brand of puppy food is right for your larger breed dog- for sure he’ll need something with extra calcium: As a blogger, you may even qualify for free pet food from the company that makes Oakley’s food.
Crystal says
Thanks, Cindy. I’ll keep that in mind. He has a vet appointment tomorrow afternoon.
C Williams says
Good for you! All good things must come to an end, but that doesn’t mean we can’t meet new and wonderful pets! My best friend recently found a stray pitbull that was afflicted with heartworm. She didn’t have the money to pay for it and I couldn’t keep it at my house anymore because I didn’t want my dog to catch heartworm. My friend was about to take it to a shelter (unfortunately all the shelters around here are kill shelters) when out of the blue she found a family with a kid eager to take the dog, heartworm and all. It was such a blessing and the kid was so excited to have a dog!
Crystal says
I’m so glad you were able to find the dog a home…that’s awesome!
Kelsey Apley says
Sorry about your loss! Losing a pet is never easy. Your new addition looks SO cute and I am sure he will bring you lots of laughs and love!!! I just love puppies!!!
Mellisa says
Awww he is adorable!!! I just love Labs. It’s been almost a year since we had to put our dog Nala to sleep. It was one of the hardest things we have ever had to do. I look forward to being able to add a new addition to our family very soon.
kristin says
Just read the heartbreaking story about your Piccolo. I could tell he was very much loved and just know he’ll always be with you!
Oakley is adorable, I can’t wait to see what kind of trouble…..I mean adventure he gets into! 🙂
HilLesha says
Labs are such sweet and loyal dogs!
Anne - Mommy Has to Work says
He is beautiful! I kind of want a dog but not sure I’m ready for that commitment. We have two cats.
Marcie W. says
Oh Oakley is so handsome and just darling. Our Harvey is only two and a half, but the thought of living without him makes my heart ache. I am glad you all found a new fur baby to love and I’m excited to be able to watch him grow through your blog!
Angela says
I am so glad you got a new dog. Oakley is adorable and lucky to be part of a loving family.
Kathleen says
He is absolutely adorable. We have one large dog and one small one, and we love them both equally. You are going to love having him around.
Colleen says
So sorry about your previous pet but hope this one brings you just as much joy.
Lolo says
Labs make such awesome pets, your dog is a beauty!
Shell Feis says
I’m so sorry for your loss, but I am so excited for your new addition! You will love having a big dog {not necessarily MORE, just in a different way}- be prepared to have a puppy for quite some time though with a lab! Mine is half lab & at six years old, she still runs in circles around the house & curls up on my lap as if she’s a tiny dog. It’s the best. 🙂
Stefanie says
Aww he is just adorable! I hope you are doing well, Crystal 🙂
Tricia @ Night owl mama says
oh my gosh he’s just soooo adorable Crystal
Ty @ Mama of 3 Munchkins says
He’s so cute and he looks loveable, too!
Leilani says
Congrats on your new pup! I can’t even imagine how difficult it’s going to be for our family when our dog passes away. Luckily, it won’t be for a while, but just the thought of it brings tears to my eyes.
TerriAnn @ Driving Mama says
What a cutie! You’ll love having a big dog! They are so sweet and cuddly and IMHO much more huggable than little ones 😛
Theresa @ Faith and Family Reviews says
We had a black lab growing up and she was a wonderful dog.
LyndaS says
He’s beautiful. Be forewarned – labs are great chewers and bad puppies. The only toys that I found that my lab could not absolutely destroy are made by Nylabone (http://www.nylabone.com/).
That being said, my lab is now 5, incredibly laid back, and just about everybody loves him who meets him.
Congrats on the new family member.
courtney says
Awww so precious, congrats! I know that feeling all too well. I don’t know if I could ever get another cat, but hubby has allergies anyway.
Mickey says
Beautiful dog! It’s so hard to lose a pet, so I’m glad your new dog is helping everyone get through it.