Puppy Problems
So one morning in late July, I began to think about what it would be like to own a dog again. I have such fond memories of growing up with family dogs. When I was a young child we had a Doberman that I loved to snuggle with by the fireplace in the winter. Then right before going off to college, and against my mothers wishes, my dad and I happily took in a beautiful Weimeraner puppy, who I adored.
I even took that dog to college with me. I must say that there is something special about having a doggie companion. This is something that I wanted for my boys to experience.
So what is the big deal? Let’s get a puppy!
Pump the brakes, girl! Keith was quick to bring me back to reality. I had to consider these things:
- RV travel
- Kid interaction
- Energy/Temperament of Breeds
Of course, I thought about those things…or should I say, I romanticized. I mean it is a no brainer that we take the puppy on all of our adventures. I pictured the puppy enjoying long hikes, corralling the kids for us if they happened to wander off. The kids would automatically love the dog and fight for the opportunity to care for her.
Most importantly, she would be an angel on trips laying down at our feet and always responding with the upmost obedience. Are you laughing yet?
Long story short, we found the cutest puppy we could find at our local animal shelter. Rescuing a puppy from the shelter was an important thing to both Keith and I. She immediately took her place in the family and we named her, Ebony. We struggled through the first few weeks of midnight and early morning walks, screaming children complaining that the puppy had chewed on their toys and her insatiable need to run.
What have I done?!
Our first RV trip settled any further worries. Thankfully, Ebony did awesome on our first short RV trip to a local campground.
Turns out she loves being outside chilling in nature. As we are driving the motorhome Ebony sleeps soundly on her pillow between us. There is still that little issue of obedience, as she is still an energetic and playful puppy.
Determined to not give up on my fantasy, I met a trainer at our local RV show. We are prayerful that this is the key to enjoying our new pet fully. We will let you know the results as soon as she completes her 15-day course.
It looks like Ebony is here for the long haul. Ms. Ebony has taken her place as the furry little princess of the RV.
Pray for us!
Tia – CEO of Soulful RV Family
We too have a four month old puppy – a Standard Poodle who has doubled in size in the last month. And he did great on his first RV trip. Got a crate for night time and daytime is lots of training and lots of exercise. A tired puppy is a good puppy. Ha, ha!! We RV’d with our last dog for 10 years and just couldn’t imagine life without another dog. It’s gonna be a hassle for a few more months, but our pups will settle down eventually and bring us so much joy and laughter. I think it’s great for your kids to have a 4-legged best friend and learn responsibility of pet ownership! Enjoy Ebony!!
Yes, they grow so fast! Congrats on your new puppy. The crate in the RV has been a lifesaver, because she will chew on anything that is eye level. LOL! I agree whole-heartedly that a tired puppy is a good puppy. We are so happy to have her and excited to begin obedience training with her. Enjoy your new pup, maybe we will see you out there on the road. Safe travels!
I like the story and remember the more play time the better she will be. So the walks and teaching her to fetch balls will get a dog that will be balanced. Everyone has to pitch in the first year or so. After that it will become normal. Teach her boundaries and those long walks will pay off in the end.
Great advice! It has been so long since we have owned dogs, that we realized that we need professional assistance. We are super excited about her pending training (and ours). Until then, we try to give her as much exercise as WE can handle. LOL! I may lose a few pounds in the process so its a win-win.