In my previous post, I told about how we came to welcome our delightful dog Sparkle  into our home. There is so much more to this story.

I resisted having a dog for so long and I and so many good reasons why we couldn’t have one that our friends are amazed that I have taken Sparkle into my heart.

In addition to my allergies, I feared that a dog would tie us down. Dan and I are pretty spontaneous at times. For instance, we have been known to decide to go to the beach for an overnight with no previous planning. And I really didn’t like dogs—I thought they were a nuisance. I avoided them as much as possible. And then there was my fear of dogs, which was still in the background.

But seeing my husband’s transformed face when he cuddled a dog was a compelling reason to try to find a dog I could tolerate. People suggested a French poodle, claiming that they were “hypoallergenic.” But quite frankly, I really found poodles to be way too cloying. And I thought that they were probably high maintenance princesses. But, by mixing a poodle with another breed, you get a delightful and cute dog that I can tolerate. ( By the way, my allergist wished me “good luck” with the dog—3 years ago!)

We also were able to find a reliable, caring dog sitter where we live who charges a reasonable fee to keep Sparkle in her home overnight when we need to get away.

So, all of the obstacles to including a delightful furry “baby” into our home were overcome.

What I didn’t expect was that I would learn so much from having a dog in our home. I’d like to share those insights with you.

                                                                                              What I learned from my Dog, Sparkle

It is possible to love an animal.

A 14 pound, foot high dog can be in charge of two adults!

Petting a dog is soothing and helps to deal with stress.

Taking care of a dog is a job.

Kissing a dog does not lead to a fatal attack of “dog germs” (ala Lucy in “Peanuts”).

Playing with a dog is not only fun, it is comical and relaxing.

Dogs are a great comfort when you are sick, stressed or lonely.

Dogs love to eat—all the time.

You can learn “doggie-talk”–for example, I now know the difference between a bark that means, “I want to go out” and “I want a treat.”

Walking a dog is a great way to get to know people.

Dogs have the most pathetic way of begging for food—all the time. And it is very easy to give into them.

A dog can quickly learn that if she sits just right, you will give her a treat.

You have to be careful to not feed your dog too much restaurant food—not only will she get fat, but she will refuse to eat anything else.

Living with a dog brings new energy into your household.

You can spoil a dog—really!!

You can give your dog a cutesy name, and she won’t mind.

Stuffed dogs and cute dog books are no substitute for the real thing.

Dogs find a place deep in your heart and, at some point, you realize how grateful you are that she is there.