What do you do if you’re infertile? You’ve found out that you can’t have children, but you’re not sure what your next steps should be. How about getting a pet?
Let’s be honest. Pets are about as much work as having a child. They demand lots of attention and help. They have play time, meals, clean-up, and nap times. They like to go wherever you go and do whatever you do. They are very affectionate. They even have the same stages as children, teenagers, and adults do, just at an accelerated rate. Sure, you can’t teach or train them quite as much as you can a child, but you can still teach them a lot. You’d even be surprised at how much they communicate with you. They can’t use your language, but they manage to find creative ways to tell you what’s on their mind.
Michael and I had Declan, our Irish Setter dog, throughout our entire infertility quest. He was a source of joy, frustration, laughter, and tears. It was honestly like having a family. Then the hard day came and he passed away. In the moments of day-to-day life, we didn’t notice how much we appreciated the comfort of having him around until he was gone. Isn’t that true with so many things in our lives?
Suddenly, the house became quiet. All the silly things he used to do that drove us crazy now seemed to be the things we missed the most. He was our baby.
We took some time to rest and grieve. We enjoyed the freedom to go and do whatever we wanted without the responsibility of having to be home at certain times. It was kind of nice. But you know, we could never get that feeling of missing something out of our homes and hearts.
So, we’ve put a deposit down on another Irish Setter puppy! Though we’ll always miss Declan, we’re excited for this next lil’ pup we get to raise. This time, Michael and I will be doing it together (Michael had Declan for a couple of years before I came along). We’ll be able to work with him from the start. It’ll be a great building time for our marriage as well.
That’s something we’ve noticed after paying off our mortgage. The goal had been reached and life got kind of hum-drum again. We were so used to working towards something together that it kept our focus and drive. Now that one goal has been reached, it’s time to set another. It’s great for married couples to have goals they are working towards – together. It helps the communication and unity grow.
To be honest, I was a little leery of getting another puppy. I enjoyed less responsibility and all the things that come with having a dog, like the shedding, picking up the poop, arranging sitters, etc. However, as soon as I started looking at pictures and videos of the puppies, along with watching other dogs in our home, I realized that I wanted another one too.
The biggest confirmation for me was going to the pet store and buying two little gifts for our new pup. We don’t know when we’ll be getting him yet as there is a long list of people waiting, but getting those two little things brought such joy to my heart. We are getting a little furry baby. I am going to be a momma again.
I know it’s only a dog, which is vastly different than nurturing and raising human life. But there is something special about loving and raising a pet too. And the greatest part of that is that they are always so happy to see you when you come home. You can guarantee that there will be a big ball of love waiting at the door to greet you no matter how hard your day might have been. When you’re sick, they will be by your side. When you’re excited, they’ll be the first to celebrate with you.
If your home feels empty or heavy and you need something to put your spouse’s and your time and love into, this might be a great option for you.
I will say as mentioned above that they do take a lot of time and work. It’s not something to just jump into. Think and pray about it. Take some time. Then, if it’s right for you, have fun!! Michael and I are soaking up as many training videos as we can right now. We had a dog for eight years, but there’s always things to learn to do it better the next time. Plus, it’s keeping the excitement going while we learn and do something together.
I can guarantee you’ll be hearing/seeing when we get the word of when our sweet boy will be coming home, and many stories to follow afterwards. We’re excited for this new adventure in our lives. What are you doing to help through this time? What things are you learning? What are your spouse and you working towards? Do you have a goal?
