Things are bound to change once you bring a fuzzy-faced companion into your home, but they may change in ways you wouldn’t expect. T and I both grew up with dogs, and we knew that once we were settled into our new house a few years ago that we would want to adopt a new member of our little family. After a diligent search on PetFinder and what felt like an eternity (but was, in reality, just a couple of months), we picked up Sprout.
Since that day almost three years ago:
– T and I became “Mom” and “Dad”. When one of us comes home, it’s “Mom is home!”, not “Alyssa is home!”. Suddenly, I felt the need to get Father’s Day cards for T and sign them from Sprout. And on my birthday each year, Sprout gives me his favorite treats as a gift (which I obviously share).
– My social life is far less exciting, because I want to spend time with my pup. Especially after this pin started circulating, I have a hard time leaving Sprout at home at times when I don’t have to be away. That doesn’t mean I don’t leave, but it’s just a little bit harder than it otherwise would be.
– Personal goals now include Sprout. Aside from some entrepreneurial goals that don’t necessarily include him (but if and when those things happen, he 100% will be able to come to work with me!), I now see goals on my bucket list that involve him, including training so that he can do volunteer work with me at a local hospital as a visiting therapy dog. We start that next week – wish us luck!
– I have a pretty much weekly moment where I think I should quit my job and stay at home to run my own dog rescue. Crazy dog lady is totally going to be on my resume in the future.
– A good portion of my earnings now go to animal rescue. I know they’re targeting me because I’m a sap about animals. And I also have no problem forking over about the same amount I spend on shoes (read: too much) to local rescues as well as rescues around the US. But it’s all tax-deductible and makes me feel good, so it’s all good.
Can we also talk about how Sprout’s hair cuts cost more than mine do? Actually, let’s not.
In short, I love him and would not trade my dog mom status for anything.
Oh you haven't even touched Crazy Dog Mommy territory yet (or at least I hope you haven't because otherwise I would be literally off the charts lol)!! As far as I can tell, you are just a great Rescue Mom, and Sprout is lucky to have you!!