Advice on Pets, Life, Love
Dear Dog Lady,
I seek information on how to introduce a new puppy to our household with a very spoiled eight- year-old female Brittany spaniel that has been the only dog in the house. The new puppy will also be a Brittany and we are thinking of getting a male. Any help with making the older dog comfortable during the transition is appreciated.
Mo
Dear Mo,
Make sure none of the older dog's routines are disrupted during the time your household adjusts to the puppy. Walk the elder at the same time, feed her as you have been doing, and leave her crate or bed in the same place. Don't force her to pal around with the puppy but let the two of them work out their relationship. Allow them hang out together casually but supervise them. Divide your attentions equally between the older dog and the puppy.
As much as dogs love us, they love other dogs better. Ask Dog Lady predicts the two dogs will eventually get along just fine.
Dear Dog Lady,
I have such a problem relaxing and enjoying my three dogs instead of always wondering if they are comfortable, getting enough exercise, getting enough attention, and whether all their canine emotional needs are satisfied. This becomes a real problem when I come home from work and am too tired to walk them or when I go on vacation and leave them with the 'in house' sitter. Heaven forbid I take them to the kennel for a few days when I'm out of town. I think it would be worse on me than them.
If I get lucky and get a date or boyfriend, how should I split my time then? Sometimes I wish they were less reliant on me and would play together more. They probably would do this if I encouraged it. I love them so much, but how do I relax a little bit and give myself a break. They are all big dogs, very well-behaved for the most part. I live alone and have a 9 to 5 job.
Kellie
Dear Kellie,
You're the one who got into this dog pack. You chose to have three dogs - not a tiny task. Therefore, you must be the one who figures out how to enjoy them and keep them happy. Dog Lady is heartened because you have a conscience about your pets' health and welfare. Right now, you work hard to please them and you can afford sitters and walkers when you need a break. Just follow this maxim: A tired dog as a happy dog - especially a big dog. Provide them plenty of exercise and outdoor time. They will never complain or stare through your soul with big sad dog eyes if they are snoozing.
As for the boyfriend, presumably, any man who wants to share life with you is a man who likes dogs. You may find your responsibility is shared by someone who is glad to help you wrangle your threesome. Wouldn't that be nice?
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