Finally, after months (maybe even years) of deliberating, I rescued a dog from the Humane Society. Meet Phineas (Phin for short), a black and tan 10-pound dachshund, part wire hair, part smooth coat, part mini, part standard size. About a year ago, we lost our dachshund, Sebastian, and it was a heartbreaking event for my entire family. We really loved that little guy and this is the first year of my life that I’ve ever spent without a dog to love. Now that the grieving has passed and I can now almost mention Sebastian’s name without crying, it’s time for a new chapter in my life with canines. And just as I decided I was ready, Phineas appeared through the help of New York Dachshund Rescue and the Westchester Shore Humane Society in Harrison, NY.
I woke up this morning as if it were Christmas, eager to meet Phineas and see if he was a match. I knew in just a few minutes that this guy was the one for me – now if only dating were so easy (and I suppose it is with the right guy!) My newly retired mom, a great dog lover, met me at the Humane Society and agreed to watch him this weekend while I’m out-of-town. She fell in love with him on sight – another good sign! I’ve started reading Cesar Milan’s book, Cesar’s Way, and have plowed through many of Temple Grandin’s books in an effort to understand how dogs think and how to give them the very best lives possible by giving them what they need, not what we need. It’s going to be quite an adventure with Phineas and I’m looking forward to it!
A lot more to come as I travel down this new path. As I learn about Phineas, dogs, and myself in the process, I’ll record the journey here. Happy trails and tails!
Above is a photo of Phin and I, about 10 minutes after meeting. It’s our first photo together.
Christa Avampato 