[BellaPup]

Hi all,

Not sure how many of you remember me from way back when, but I had to let my Bella pup - the love of my life - go last January. That is how my 2020 started.

It's been a heart-wrenching year being without her for the first time in 13 years. I've missed her more than I can comprehend.

I've ended up seeing a psychiatrist, and trying to get my life back. Between losing Bella, COVID, losing my aunt, going into menopause etc...etc..etc...I figured I better do something before it kills me...LOL.

First thing she suggested was to find another dog. I told her I didn't know if my landlord would allow it - he's pretty strict about the No Pets thing....but Bella and I were here before he bought the place. I was scared to know what he'd say. She - of course - said, "ask him. You never know. And you need to."

Weeks went by and I didn't ask, made up excuses for not talking to him, but finally got up the guts.

When I asked if he'd consider letting me get another dog at some point, he didn't skip a beat, he just said "of course!" He said he wasn't worried about me having another dog because he knows how much I loved and cared for Bella and that I'm responsible and all that stuff.

Whew! I shoulda listened to my therapist sooner!

Anyway, to get to the more important point of my post; I think I'm almost ready to let another pup into my heart. The crying has decreased to once or twice a week! Progress!

I've been poking around online at rescue organizations and shelters, but there is a very small number of adoptable dogs out there....for obvious reasons.

I'm not sure if member LuvMyFosters(?) is still around, but she did AMAZING work with her foster dogs and puppies. I would love to find someone like that to help me in my search! If I could work with her directly, it would be like a dream come true!

I'm open to all suggestions and leads. I am in New Hampshire.

Thanks everyone. Take care of yourselves!
I hope to be back again at some point!

(Don't worry, Bella...I will never EVER forget you! 💕 )

 

[Shell]

Aww, BellaPup, my heart feels for you. Its odd actually, I have just gotten back into active in the forum recently and wondered if your Bella was still with you. Sounds like she had a good run of life though.

I know how important Eva has been to my mental and probably physical health this year with so much staying home.

I'm still semi-active in rescue, not fostering since Eva is so-so with dogs, but keeping a toe in the waters so to speak. I am not at all nearby your area though but might be able to network a bit?

What are you looking for in a dog at this time? True puppy, adolescent, young adult? Any breed or breed type desires?

I'm mostly connected with bully breed rescue and that can be tough in a rental situation sometimes, but I do find the pit bull types to be super emotionally in connection with their people. Cuddle bugs to the max.

 

[BellaPup]

Aww, BellaPup, my heart feels for you. Its odd actually, I have just gotten back into active in the forum recently and wondered if your Bella was still with you. Sounds like she had a good run of life though.

I know how important Eva has been to my mental and probably physical health this year with so much staying home.

I'm still semi-active in rescue, not fostering since Eva is so-so with dogs, but keeping a toe in the waters so to speak. I am not at all nearby your area though but might be able to network a bit?

What are you looking for in a dog at this time? True puppy, adolescent, young adult? Any breed or breed type desires?

I'm mostly connected with bully breed rescue and that can be tough in a rental situation sometimes, but I do find the pit bull types to be super emotionally in connection with their people. Cuddle bugs to the max.

Hi Shell! So glad to see you here! Glad you and Eva are well 😊❤

Losing Bella when I did was both a curse and a blessing. I've been working from home since this craziness began, and trying to take care of a not-so-well Bella would have been stressful on both of us. I'd still do anything to have her back, though. 😢

I've only just recently started putting serious thought into another dog, but I'm leaning towards a young adult, or a puppy that's a little more on the "calm" side - if such a thing exists...lol.

I love bully breeds...my landlord has two of his own so that wouldn't be a problem, but I don't know if I'm physically strong enough anymore. I would LOVE to find another GSD x lab or similar. Maybe a bit lower energy than Bella, but not a doorstop either...lol

You've always had a wealth of information over the years...I'm thankful for all of it!

 

[Deacon.dog]

Hi!

Glad you are getting the help you need.

My Grandparents recently got what they call a "pocket pit"... basically just a pit bull type dog who is really small.. I'd look into staffordsire bull terriers for adoption near you, since you like bull breeds, but need something smaller/easier to handle. There was a litter of Pit bull x dachshund puppies in the shelter I volunteer at not long ago, I'm sure if you just keep at it you will find the perfect dog for you.

You could also go in person, if your shelter allows it at this time. Since you are looking for not quite a puppy, you should be able to get a really good look at size & all the other good stuff if you do go In person.

 

[Shell]

Hi Shell! So glad to see you here! Glad you and Eva are well 😊❤

Losing Bella when I did was both a curse and a blessing. I've been working from home since this craziness began, and trying to take care of a not-so-well Bella would have been stressful on both of us. I'd still do anything to have her back, though. 😢

I've only just recently started putting serious thought into another dog, but I'm leaning towards a young adult, or a puppy that's a little more on the "calm" side - if such a thing exists...lol.

I love bully breeds...my landlord has two of his own so that wouldn't be a problem, but I don't know if I'm physically strong enough anymore. I would LOVE to find another GSD x lab or similar. Maybe a bit lower energy than Bella, but not a doorstop either...lol

You've always had a wealth of information over the years...I'm thankful for all of it!

I'll put a few feelers out for info on New England based reputable rescues. Long shot but can't hurt.

I definately think considering a smaller sized female pit type is worth keeping in mind. A 35-45 lb female would be no harder to handle strength wise than a 60+ lbs GSD/Lab type, assuming a good temperament on either. It is odd maybe, but a lot of the bully types are really homebodies and are pretty chill on a day to day basis. Active outside but love a good cozy snuggle inside.

I would also say, don't feel guilty or weird to consider an adult rehome or older puppy placement from a reputable breeder. You might prefer some more certainty about size and temperament and a good breeder could help with any "getting settled in" type issues. A Boston Terrier or a Mini Schnauzer seems to fit you in my mind for absolutely no basis at all

 

[Deacon.dog]

You can probably get a rescue dog faster than a pure bred right now, most reputable breeders have stopped breeding during this time, or their waiting lists are full since its the "perfect time to get a dog".

 

[pandora]

I cant offer any better advice than youve had and Im not sure how the situation is where you are . One thing that might help you get higher up the shelter lists is if you could get it in writing from your landlord that you are allowed to have a dog.
Many shelters in the UK and other countries wont even consider you until you can prove its ok for you to have a dog at your home.

I hope you are successful in your search and of course we all want to be kept up to date with how it goes.

 

[BellaPup]

Thanks all! Sorry for the delay - been having trouble signing in via FB.

And Shell!! I just realized I don't see Chester?


I do have written permission from my landlord. He says he'll do whatever I need to help me out in that way.
Not really looking for a breeder at this moment. Maybe down the line if rescue options run out. Just hard to know who to trust.

If it helps at all, my all time favorite breed since I was a little kid has been the German shepherd. But with their history of health and temperament issues, I've shied away. I don't trust myself to make the right choice.
Bella and every other GSD x lab I've known have been terrific dogs, but I am also trying to not focus on dogs that look like Bella.

I also love Spitz-type breeds, but don't think they'd be a good fit for my situation. :/ Loved the Shiba Inu, but they sound way too touchy.

Honestly, I've never been a fan of terriers - unless it's a bully mix of some sort.

What about Greyhounds? I hear they're big lap dogs, but do they need a huge fenced-in yard to run? Are they normally a healthy breed? Are there even any racetracks left out there that retire perfectly good, loving pets?

 

[Shell]

Thanks all! Sorry for the delay - been having trouble signing in via FB.

And Shell!! I just realized I don't see Chester?


I do have written permission from my landlord. He says he'll do whatever I need to help me out in that way.
Not really looking for a breeder at this moment. Maybe down the line if rescue options run out. Just hard to know who to trust.

If it helps at all, my all time favorite breed since I was a little kid has been the German shepherd. But with their history of health and temperament issues, I've shied away. I don't trust myself to make the right choice.
Bella and every other GSD x lab I've known have been terrific dogs, but I am also trying to not focus on dogs that look like Bella.

I also love Spitz-type breeds, but don't think they'd be a good fit for my situation. :/ Loved the Shiba Inu, but they sound way too touchy.

Honestly, I've never been a fan of terriers - unless it's a bully mix of some sort.

What about Greyhounds? I hear they're big lap dogs, but do they need a huge fenced-in yard to run? Are they normally a healthy breed? Are there even any racetracks left out there that retire perfectly good, loving pets?

Greyhounda are lovely dogs. They do need a good run around in a larged fenced area now and then, if you have a friend with a farm or there is a quiet dog park that separates small dogs it could be an option. They are NOT "dog park dogs" though, not due to aggression just due to play style and body type. I think they seem fairly healthy, I see retired older dogs up for adoption sometimes and they seem to move well for their ages. I had a godfather who had a few greyhounds over the years and I quite liked them but I have never known one well though.

I think a lot of the tracks have shut down but seem to maybe be more common in the South like Florida and Texas.

Chester passed away in June 2018. He had a very aggressive blood cancer, one week from diagnoses until I had a vet come to my house to put him to sleep in my yard under a shade tree. It was hard but I appreciate that he was able to enjoy life to the end without too much pain.

 

[Deacon.dog]

They are LAZY, greyhounds anyways.. they'd do good with a good run through your home and back to bed... not sure about health

 

[Lillith]

Oh, I'm sorry about Bella! It sounds like she had a long, happy life.

I don't have any additional advice for finding a shelter dog, but if you like the spitz types, Keeshonds, Eurasiers, or perhaps Pomeranians (if you would like to try a little dog) might be something to look into. One of the ladies at our agility club runs Pomeranians, and they are so sweet and calm and sit happily in her lap when they're not flying around the agility course.

I think the Keeshonds and Eurasiers are not well established in the US yet, but I've heard they're lovely family dogs, active when outside but generally calm indoors.

 

[DaySleepers]

It's great to see you back! I meant to respond earlier, but apparently I got distracted and never did, sorry. I'm so glad your landlord is understanding and trusts you to bring another dog into your life, and I hope it helps you heal and recover.

My SiL has an Eurasier - I do think they're generally more chill than most spitz breeds, but still expect a rowdy puppy-and-adolescent-hood. They're definitely bred primarily as a companion dog compared to other spitzes. Meeko isn't especially loud when I've seen him, but he's always preoccupied by playing with the other dogs at that point, so I can't tell you too much personally about how he does at home. However, my SiL does say that he's quite chill at home. He does like having access to a yard, and lives in a fairly active household (regular play-dates with my MiL's Leonberger and outings to a large, hiking-style dog park included), but my SiL specifically chose the breed because they're more laid-back, family-oriented, and easier to live with than most spitz breeds, based on her and my MiL's experiences meeting adult Eurasiers.

While I'm on the topic of my in-law's dogs, Leonbergers are also fabulous companions, but a giant breed so you do have the downsides of a shorter lifespan, consideration of how many stairs the puppy would have to navigate while growing in an apartment, and possibly another conversation with the landlord about upper size limits. And another rare breed, so you may have a longer wait once you find a breeder you like, depending on their wait list.

I've always loved greyhounds, even though I have limited personal experience with them. I would want to make sure I had somewhere safe they could really run, though, and of course an adopted track dogs have their own sets of challenges. Bonus is that they usually come with brilliantly solid crate training, but they often don't have a lot of experience with things you'd find in an average house, like carpet or TVs. Many adapt wonderfully and make excellent companions, but it's something to keep in mind.

Do you have the ability to (safely, with Covid protections in mind) volunteer at a shelter? Maybe walking dogs so it's less contact with people? That could be a great way to find a dog that you connect with.

 

[BellaPup]

It's great to see you back! I meant to respond earlier, but apparently I got distracted and never did, sorry. I'm so glad your landlord is understanding and trusts you to bring another dog into your life, and I hope it helps you heal and recover.

My SiL has an Eurasier - I do think they're generally more chill than most spitz breeds, but still expect a rowdy puppy-and-adolescent-hood. They're definitely bred primarily as a companion dog compared to other spitzes. Meeko isn't especially loud when I've seen him, but he's always preoccupied by playing with the other dogs at that point, so I can't tell you too much personally about how he does at home. However, my SiL does say that he's quite chill at home. He does like having access to a yard, and lives in a fairly active household (regular play-dates with my MiL's Leonberger and outings to a large, hiking-style dog park included), but my SiL specifically chose the breed because they're more laid-back, family-oriented, and easier to live with than most spitz breeds, based on her and my MiL's experiences meeting adult Eurasiers.

While I'm on the topic of my in-law's dogs, Leonbergers are also fabulous companions, but a giant breed so you do have the downsides of a shorter lifespan, consideration of how many stairs the puppy would have to navigate while growing in an apartment, and possibly another conversation with the landlord about upper size limits. And another rare breed, so you may have a longer wait once you find a breeder you like, depending on their wait list.

I've always loved greyhounds, even though I have limited personal experience with them. I would want to make sure I had somewhere safe they could really run, though, and of course an adopted track dogs have their own sets of challenges. Bonus is that they usually come with brilliantly solid crate training, but they often don't have a lot of experience with things you'd find in an average house, like carpet or TVs. Many adapt wonderfully and make excellent companions, but it's something to keep in mind.

Do you have the ability to (safely, with Covid protections in mind) volunteer at a shelter? Maybe walking dogs so it's less contact with people? That could be a great way to find a dog that you connect with.

Oh, I'm sorry about Bella! It sounds like she had a long, happy life.

I don't have any additional advice for finding a shelter dog, but if you like the spitz types, Keeshonds, Eurasiers, or perhaps Pomeranians (if you would like to try a little dog) might be something to look into. One of the ladies at our agility club runs Pomeranians, and they are so sweet and calm and sit happily in her lap when they're not flying around the agility course.

I think the Keeshonds and Eurasiers are not well established in the US yet, but I've heard they're lovely family dogs, active when outside but generally calm indoors.

Hi Lillith and DaySleepers - good to "see" you both again! Hope all is well with you and yours! Thanks for the replies!

Hmmm... Eurasiers are a breed I was half-heartedly looking at several years ago - and Norwegian Elk Hounds. Maybe I'll poke around online to get more info.

The more I thought about greyhounds, the more I'm thinking I probably wouldn't have enough room without those long legs and tail knocking things over constantly. And as much as I LOVE the breeds, I definitely do not have enough room for a giant breed like a Leon or Mountain dogs. And one of the most important things a dog that has a shot at a looong healthy life - without being a small breed.

I have submitted volunteer requests to a couple local shelters, and they apparently have more than enough volunteers at this time and with the COVID, I can't just show up to look around. Stupid Covid.

Trying to keep in mind it's not something that has to happen now....the more info the better!

 

[BellaPup]

I'll put a few feelers out for info on New England based reputable rescues. Long shot but can't hurt.

I definately think considering a smaller sized female pit type is worth keeping in mind. A 35-45 lb female would be no harder to handle strength wise than a 60+ lbs GSD/Lab type, assuming a good temperament on either. It is odd maybe, but a lot of the bully types are really homebodies and are pretty chill on a day to day basis. Active outside but love a good cozy snuggle inside.

I would also say, don't feel guilty or weird to consider an adult rehome or older puppy placement from a reputable breeder. You might prefer some more certainty about size and temperament and a good breeder could help with any "getting settled in" type issues. A Boston Terrier or a Mini Schnauzer seems to fit you in my mind for absolutely no basis at all

Oh yeah, I think I do remember Chester's passing. I was crushed to hear about it. You gave him a great life!
I don't think I will ever be able to get Bella's last day out of my head. It was more traumatic that I ever could have imagined. She had an awesome last day with endless treats and love, but don't think I'll ever be the same.
Okay - enough of that.

If you run across something, let me know...there seems to be a major shortage of adoptable pets out there.

 

[BellaPup]

I looked into Eurasiers again....I shouldn't have. I'm falling in love -- will probably never find one. They sound perfect for me - and super-cute to boot!

 

[Lillith]

If you do a quick google search of "Eurasier breeders New England" a few options come up at the top of the page. They're out there!

 

[hanksimon]

Welcome Back! Sorry to hear about Bella. But, I have some good ... or frustrating news. I looked up 'New Hampshire' on petfinder.com and found a collection of candidates, possibly less than an hour away from you. I have no idea how you'll decide which ones to check out, and which ones to 'leave behind'. Please let us know...

 

[BellaPup]

Hi Hanksimon! Good to see you again!!! 😃
So it's been a little disheartening so far. The few dogs I've expressed interest in have been declined because I don't have a fenced yard.
I'm not a fan of small dogs and I don't really want an older dog because I don't want to go through the heartbreak of losing another pup right away.
I knew it would take some time, and I'm not in a hurry...I'd rather find the right pup so we will both be super happy....just hurts being told "nope" over and over. 🥺 I've been working with a local organization called Mary's Dogs. Hoping they will help find my perfect match!
And also working on finding another kitty for my mom who lost her guy almost two years ago. Thai isn't going well either. 😕 Maybe waiting until
this horrendous year is over would be a good decision!
Curse 2020 anyway. LOL

 

[Shell]

Do you have the option of driving out of state to meet "halfway"?

I dunno what range that might mean for you but if it stretched into PA/WV/NoVa/Md for example it opens ideas

the Southern states seem to always have more rescue dogs

 

[DaySleepers]

I've definitely heard that there's a huge demand for dogs (and all pets) right now, thanks to people working at home feeling that they have the time to settle in a new family member. I'm a little concerned about what that'll mean in a few months' time when (with any luck) we have a vaccine and things can start looking more normal again, but hang in there. I'm sure the right dog will find you.