pet motherhood

mommy? mamacita? a mom of what? a dog?

Ever since I can remember, I have been around dogs. And I always loved them. All animals, for that matter—I have a photo of my child self hugging a lamb on my bookshelf. When I was in college and strapped for cash, I signed up to pet sit and walk dogs on Rover. I honestly would have done it for free. Being with animals is my favorite way to spend my time, and I can’t name one dog I don’t like (can name a cat or two though, don’t judge me!)

I always knew I would one day adopt a dog of my own when I was older; it was only a matter of making sure I could give them everything they deserved. When I lived in Manhattan, my apartment was too small, and I was still getting used to the city. I knew I wouldn’t be responsible enough to adopt a dog, and I would never ever put one in a situation where they weren’t getting what they needed and more. But I couldn’t stop thinking about the day I would finally do it.

When I moved to Brooklyn, Christian received his green card only a month later, and we finally had a place of our own. I kept reminding him that he promised we could get a dog once we moved in together. That time was finally here! But honestly, I was kind of bluffing and not entirely certain we were ready. Not because I no longer wanted it, but I was uncertain of how it would change our lives and if we were ready.

We were visiting Seattle, sitting on my mom’s couch, and I got a text from a friend; it was a link to a puppy in a NYC shelter. His name was Archibald, and he was the cutest thing I had ever laid my eyes on. I thought about him the entire trip. Once we were back in NYC, I thought surely someone had adopted him since I saw his photo—there was no way he was still in the shelter with that face! A week or so later, I checked online and he was indeed still available for adoption. I convinced everyone to come with me to see him the next day at Animal Haven.

At only three months old and 20 lbs, with the biggest feet and floppiest ears I had ever seen, he was even sweeter than I imagined. He even looks Asian too. Haha! From the moment we met, I knew he was meant to come home with us. Christian was nervous because he didn’t grow up with pets, but even he couldn’t deny how perfect it felt when we sat there with Archibald (now Quincy). We applied to adopt him immediately and were approved on the spot. We picked him up two days later—we had to go shopping at Marshall’s to prepare, of course. We purchased puppy training books, fluffy toys, a variety of treats, the whole lot. We showed everyone his photo and brainstormed names. We even splurged on several clothing options.

When we picked him up, he was so small, he could just curl up in our arms comfortably. Eventually, we decided to name him Quincy. We also decided we would train him to sleep in his crate. That lasted a whole ten minutes. I could write a whole other story about the puppy stage… But I won’t. yet.

Now, Quincy is almost three, and he is one of the greatest joys in my life. I never thought my happiness would be so dependent on a dog, but here we are. It’s still up for debate, but I ended up being the second favorite pawrent. I can only begin to describe how his joining the family has elevated our lives. How it has never felt like a bother or a burden to have him completely rely on you for absolutely everything—if anything, I would say it feels more like an honor. “Wow, he trusts me so much, he lets me brush his teeth!” “He lets me trim his nails because he loves me!” I tell myself. Getting to know your pet is also such a special experience. They’re each distinct individuals, such unique characters. I know his likes and dislikes, his preferred walking routes, and his favorite treats based on how much drool appears when presented to him.

Currently, he’s sprawled out on my feet after I fed him several pieces of organic pineapple. He has become a family favorite amongst all. He’s over 50 lbs but thinks he’s a lap dog. I want to give him everything in his lifetime and more. I have to make sure this dog lives a very long life—I need him just as much as he needs me (if not more). It is my honor and privilege to experience life with him. His companionship is unmatched, and seeing him happy makes me even happier. We just get each other.

All that to say, if you are making moves towards adopting your first pet, while it is a huge responsibility, it is an unbeatable joy and an indescribable bond that you will get to experience in this life. You get to come home to someone who is happy to see you every single day. You will never be lonely, not even in the bathroom, they’ll make sure of it. Oh, also, they offer unlimited cuddles, did I already mention that? That’s major.