As some of you know, late last year I had to put my 13yo Rottie, ChamCham, down after 11 years of loyal companionship. It was one of the hardest things I've ever experienced and takes a bit out of me to even write about it now. I think it took (and is taking) a bit longer than expected to get over it but I know life without a big dog around just isn't very fulfilling for me.
After 6 months of looking at different breeds, purebreds, mutts, rescues, cheap, expensive dogs, I decided life is not complete without a purebred Rottie and I've always had a soft spot for dogs that need help.
Meet Kona:
I picked her up in Calgary last week while visiting my dying aunt. She's 11 weeks old and very neglected. In her 3 months, she'd never been outside, seen another dog or smelled anything other than her own shit and piss. She was apparently owned by people who decided she was more than they could handle, so they chucked her in the basement and left her there. I mean I'm starting from less than zero with this one.
In the 4 days I've had her, she's been bathed several times, is now up to date on vaccinations, socialized with a bunch of new people and in general, finally experienced freedom and a loving home. Although I've owned many dogs (mostly rescues), this is my first puppy. I've never experinced the pleasure (read: pain and frustration) of a big puppy crying and whining throughout the night.... it's fucking LOUD!!! Getting up every 2 hours to let her pee and calm her down is
not fun. It was easier to deal with the late night crying and feedings when my son was a newborn (I was a single dad at the time).
It is, however, great to see so much progress in such a short period of time. She's learning how to walk on a leash, pee outside (sometimes) and play nice with our 4yo Yorkie, Buster. Why just this morning when my GF took them out to pee, she gave Buster a golden shower...yay!!! Way to pee outside buddy!!!
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