Lucy has some urology issues that we are going to be dealing with AND is scheduled for surgery Monday week to remove a piece of residue left from her central line. Apparently her body has finally decided to start rejecting this foreign matter that is lodged in her chest and is mounting up a nice response in the form of an infection trying to get it out. So...lots of antibiotics for us and surgery. It will be outpatient and should be no big deal, but dang! School just started and we are already pounding the pavement to Memphis and back.
As I left St. Jude today I was keenly aware of how insignificant this issue is and what burdens so many others are carrying. So, I have whined all I'm going to whine and now its time to move on with an immensely grateful heart for all God has done for Lucy and the miracles in her life.
For example. she made it to first grade with flying colors! All three kiddos were super pumped about the first day of school and can't wait for this year to get underway. I'm excited, too. I have big dreams and expectations for this year for all three children. My prayer is that they will all succeed in their own ways, in the ways that God has planned. I know full well that my children are going to do wonderful things in their lives.
**On a totally random note, our family has decided it's time to get a puppy. It will be an indoor/outdoor dog. We are concerned about some allergy issues, but mainly want a great family dog. One that can grow old with us and one that will take to be "loved." We looked into some of the designer breeds (mini golden/labradoodles, cadoodles) and unfortunately those are a little cost prohibitive. We are thinking more along the lines of a Collie now. Any opinions? Suggestions?
This little girl was not happy with me last week. Apparently, EVERYONE has a puppy except her. Look at that "mean" look I was getting!**
Love your heart. Poor Lucy :( Prayers for you all. I love their first day of school photos. You have a beautiful family.
ReplyDeleteI'm so happy for lucy is now: stronger, healtier and happy. Kisses from Italy
ReplyDeleteLove the photos of the kids. So sorry to hear about Lucy's surgery. I hear cocker spaniels are affectionate dogs. One family at my school has one and he used to come and visit while the mum did home reading. He would always seek out the child who needed him most. It is uncanny how dogs and cats have the sixth sense to do this. Good luck with finding a dog. Also this dog had a ton of tricks he could do. Including what the kids called the gingerbread man. Put a treat on his nose telling him to wait. On "go" he'd flick his head and try to catch the treat. Please can you post Lucy's teacher's poem. Thank you, Elizabeth
ReplyDeletemy sister just got a Portuguese water dog - no shedding and minimal dander, great with kids, and indoor/outdoor type dogs. also poodles don't shed so it cuts down on hair everywhere and dander.
ReplyDeleteI grew up with shih-tzus and loved them. They are hypoallergenic as they have hair and not fur which sheds a lot. My niece has major allergies but is able to carry the puppy around without so much as a sneeze. They are amazing dogs and I would never get another kind. They don't shed and are great with kids. They love to play, but also snuggle a lot too.
ReplyDeleteKate,
ReplyDeleteI will be picking up speed on praying for Lucy.
Your children looked so happy for the first day of school.
I have a mini schnoodle and he is a great dog. No shedding, hypoallergenic, smart as can be and great with my grandchildren.
ReplyDeleteI am praying for Lucy and you and your family. Don't apologize for "whining" (as you put it). You are adjusting to some different realities and it's okay to process however you need to. We all know that when push comes to shove you are incredibly strong Kate.
ReplyDeleteWe have boston terrier. They can be hyper when they are little but we couldn't ask for a better dog. They don't get very big and are pretty low maintenance. We also have a blue heeler puppy and he is hot mess!
ReplyDeleteI have had two beagles in my lifetime. They are great, love everyone and are healthy. Try not to get a 100% full bred, since they tend to have more health problems.
ReplyDeleteI have had several dogs and loved them all. Cocker spaniel (sheds) but was so loving. Mutt (vet said it was probably most anything but definitely terrier, looked like benji) this was my one and only soul mate of a dog. Rescue dog (maltipoo) was the absolutely most affectionate dog, she was my heart. Other dogs - cockers, mutts, etc. You'll connect with one and it will be family and no other dog will do. I've never had a Collie, except for the shedding I've never heard anything bad. Go for what your heart leads you to. I would rescue a dog if I got another one. There are so many loving dogs that need a home. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteLove the first day of school photos. :) Lucy looks so healthy this year. We are allergic to dogs, so we have no puppy either. It will be fun to see what you get. Blessings.
ReplyDeleteGet a Brittney. They are the BEST family dog. A little hyper at first but once out of the puppy stage they are GREAT family pets. Smaller dogs tend to bark lots
ReplyDeleteWe have a Boston Terrier. I've never liked dogs but I wouldn't trade our Boston for anything.He's patient with my daughter.He tolerates anything she does to him & never tries to bite her.He's short haired so he doesn't shed & requires very little maintenance.We rescued a older dog so I don't know how they are as puppies but once they get a little age on them-they're amazing dogs.
ReplyDeleteWe had shelties growing up and they were GREAT.
ReplyDeleteAustralian Shepherds are great family dogs. They have energy but aren't too wild. They even have miniature ones!
ReplyDeleteHavenese are great dogs. They are on the smaller side but are hyopoallergenic and great with kids. My sister has one and she loves it.
ReplyDeleteI know this is none of my business and you don't know me from a hole in the wall but be careful before you get a shedding dog. It would be so traumatic if you got a dog and then had to give it up because of allergy and shedding issues. I have dog allergies, and we have a little poodle that I can handle most of the time. We adore her!!! I never hold her at night in my pjs, never let her in bed, and have to avoid her after she's been groomed because of the fuzz left on her. We've decided next time we'll bather her once she comes home from the groomer. Just something to think about. I think a collie would be a disaster for a kid with asthma. Now I will go away!!! Good luck. Lois in TN
ReplyDeleteWe have a 4 YO Collie - absolutely the best breed we have ever had! Collies are intuitive - if you are calm, they are calm - if you are energetic, they are. Someone told me that right before we got her and I couldn't believe them -- but boy were they right! In fact - this dog (and others I've met that are just like her) is so caring we've decided to go through training for her to become a therapy dog (partly because of reading Lucy's story - I thought we really need to share these dog snuggles with kids who really need them).
ReplyDeleteAdditionally, although they have long hair, Collies actually shed a little less than other breeds I've had - although they do still shed, especially going into the winter. Their coats are a bit 'self-cleaning' - another thing I had never heard of until we got Millie. As you can tell - I HIGHLY advise a Collie.
The only draw back (and it really isn't a big deal) - if you go with a Collie, they sometimes tend to "herd" young kids who are running around in the back yard. For us it wasn't a big deal - from the start we were careful to not let her nip at the heels of our then 4 YO to try to corral. After a day or so she hardly ever tried it anymore, and after a couple months it never ever happened again. Collies are smart, very trainable dogs.
When allergies are an issue, a "hair" dog as opposed to a "fur" dog is definitely the way to go. There are several breeds from which to choose. I personally can vouch for the personality of the Shih Tzu: very much a "people" dog as opposed to a "one man" dog and great with all ages.
ReplyDeleteI have Collies, and they are Wonderful, Beautiful dogs! (See www.tonibailey.blogspot.com). However, if you are an inexperienced dog owner, this may not be the breed for you. You might look into getting a cavalier King Charles Spaniel. They are small, very trainable, anremain "puppies" in their demeanor. If you, indeed, still want a Collie, contact me, and I can help you out, regarding breeders in your area. Be prepared for Lots of grooming and coat maintainence. Collies are Very good with children...my older Collie taught my granddaughter how to walk😀! Remember, always, that this is a 10-year+ commitment!
ReplyDeleterobtone@sbcglobal.net
Kate, I am praying that everything goes well and very quick for Lucy. These school pictures are so cute.
ReplyDeleteI would say get a Golden Retriever…or due to allergies a Golden Doodle. Goldens have the BEST personalities. They love to be loved, are great with kids and are really smart. You will find that a Golden will be the best therapy for your kids and for you. You will not regret it!!!
ReplyDelete!. Look into rescue dogs of the "designer breed" you want.
ReplyDelete2. Consider a poode.
I love the pictures of the first day of school. Reminds me of my two now grown up girls standing in front of the front door in their crisp uniforms. They look adorable and Jack couldn't look any cuter. It will be one lucky dog that gets to be loved by your family.
ReplyDeleteLook into rescuing...Labradoodles Goldendoodles and Standard Poodles are amazing dogs!
ReplyDeleteDo your research as far as all dogs, look into breed specific rescues if you really believe that a certain breed is the best fit for your family. Also as soon as possible get the puppy fixed, this helps keep them in puppy stage and also you aren't possibly adding to the shelters with un-wanted puppies. Another issue you could run into is even with a hypoallergenic dog, they can bring outside allergens inside. So beware of that during high pollen times. We have a mostly Wire Haired Fox Terrier (she's a rescue), she's a medium size, very little shedding, but does require some grooming. We keep her cut like a schnauzer. She is very sweet and playful, very good with younger kids, knows when she needs to calm down. But I have to watch how much I hold her and play with her when I'm having problems with seasonal allergies b/c she has a dog door and goes outside when she wants. I'd say be careful with typical farm dogs, such as collies, blue heelers, aussie shepherds b/c they will tend to heard children, esp if they are running and playing. It is something that you can work on training them not to do but it can be a concern. Hope your family finds a wonderful puppy/dog and that it fits perfectly with your family.
ReplyDeletewe have a cockapoo......cocker spaniel poodle mix....no shed....hypoallergenic and great with kids..... don't know what your budget is but here in Canada we paid under 200.00 for him and it was well worth it!!!
ReplyDeletehttp://www.petfinder.com/petdetail/26884019
ReplyDeleteagree to this! As a owner of three shihtzus and a breeder... these are great dogs!!!! And i have four kiddos too! 10, 8, 6 and 2 months, and my dogs love the kids almost as much as they love them!! :)
ReplyDeleteAdorable pictures!!! We have allergies in our home too. Through much reading, I found that most people are not allergic to the hair but the saliva. My in laws had a "hair" breed that did not shed and was suppose to be hypoallergenic, but every time the dog licked my husband he got hives on him. You may want to be around the dog for bit before deciding to bring it home. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteYou have a great attitude! Hope Lucy's procedure goes very quick and smoothly, and recovery is just a breeze. All 3 kiddos are just precious! Hope they have a wonderful school year:)
ReplyDeleteWe got an English Shepherd (black & tan) from an East TN Breeder paid $250 for her and she is wonderful - incredibly sweet, great with kids, super smart and easy to train, very loyal, very protective. You can see pics of her on my instagram (BrittanySp8) or email me if you have any questions.
ReplyDeleteBrittany
Old English Bulldogs are the sweetest dogs. Perfect size and personality. Our three year old bulldog, Bentley, is adorable. Loves to cuddle, go for walks, be playful and also lazy. He's gentle and protective. Great breed! :)
ReplyDeleteHere's a pic of our dog! No shedding, and the sweetest temperament you can ever imagine. Go for the mini goldendoodle!!!!
ReplyDeleteYour kids looks so precious in their little uniforms. If I had school age children they would definitely be attending that school. I have heard good things about it.
ReplyDeleteI will definitely be praying that everything goes smoothly with the surgery as well as her recovery.
My daughter had a Labradoodle and I'm sure they didn't pay much for it. At the time they were just married and pinching pennies. I will ask her where they got Buckley who has since gone on to doggie heaven.
Hang in their Kate; you're doing good.
We have a sheltie. A wonderful puppy for my 7 yr old.
ReplyDeleteWhat precious pictures of your wonderful children. The good lord has certainly blessed you! Hang in there, these are but "bumps" in the road!
ReplyDeleteOn another note, it looks like you might have been headed for a medium/larger breed of dog. We have a Shihtzu (almost 6 years old) and our first family dog. We got her for our daughter when she was 8 (surprise Christmas present and as she still refers to that time as "The Best Christmas Ever") and she had asked for a puppy it seems from the time she could talk. Let me tell you, the absolute best thing that we have ever done! These little dogs are so sweet, lovable, easy going and best of all are totally hypoallergenic - so they are one of the best breeds for families with allergy issues.
She goes on vacation with us, to the beach, camping in the mountains and when we haven't been able to take her - enjoys staying with extended family. She truly has become our family's "best friend". I think a puppy such as this would be a perfect fit for you family. Good Luck!
As always - prayers for a speedy recovery for Lucy!
We have a miniature australian shepherd (a relative of a collie) and he is seriously the easiest and best dog ever. He is indoor/outdoor. Very low maintenance and has the best temperament for kids. We have a baby on the way and 3 nieces that "love" hard all the time and he is great. I highly recommend him for kiddos. Good luck with the pup and with the surgery! A puppy is sure to brighten Lucy's (and Jack and Ella) pretty smile!
ReplyDeleteI raise several breeds of dogs and with allergies being considered I would recommend a shih Tzu or shih Tzu mix. Shih Tzu are great with kids and no shedding. I have 4 that live in the house with us. Recently my husband broke his hip and we had to have home health come for rehab. The therapist couldn't believe that we had dogs in the house. No issues with hair or odors.. They do spend days outside but mostly in house..
ReplyDeleteWe have a Maltese Pomeranian and it is the best dog. Good with kids, better for allergies, and sweet as can be. He only is 8lbs so he is perfect for cuddles.
ReplyDeletewe have a Border Collie, and just absolutely LOVE her. She is GREAT with kids. However, they are extremely energetic and full of hair.
ReplyDeleteWe had a miniature schnauzer for almost 12 years. He was easy to train, loved indoor and outdoor living, and was super with our children! No shedding, so perfect for allergy sufferers like us!
ReplyDeleteWe now have a golden retriever. She has such a calm disposition and is awesome with our kids. She does shed, so there is lots of brushing her and lots of sweeping/vacuuming, but has not affected our allergies.
Family dogs are awesome! Can't wait to see pics!!
I have had several springer spaniels. They are the BEST. Very loving, gentle family dogs and good watch dogs, not in an aggressive manner, but letting you know someone's there. They must be brushed and groomed, though.
ReplyDeleteTails of hope rescue is in Memphis and they have some adorable dogs! Please check them out on Facebook! They have a couple of young gorgeous shepherds that I wish I could bring to shreveport!!!
ReplyDeleteHey Kate, I'm glad to hear that school is going well for all three kids, and also that Lucy's new set back is not a huge issue. I will pray that she gets through the surgery as easily as possible. I'm also so glad to hear that you are getting a puppy! I truly think that no household is complete with out a dog. My experiences with collies (I had a border collie mix) were not the best. Because they are herding dogs, they sometimes like to try and herd little kids when they are running in the yard and may nip at their heels. For me, mutts are the only dogs that I will ever have (especially lab mixes), I think that they make some of the best family dogs. I know you said that allergies are an issue for your family, but I would highly recommend looking into rescuing a dog from your local pound. There are so many dogs there who need a good home!
ReplyDeleteBest of Luck!
Lauren
My family had always had terriers. We currently have an Airedale and a Wheaten. They are the best! Pretty much no shedding so go for allergies, in fact I have a dog dander allergy and have no problems. They are very smart but do have a personality, I would get another in a heartbeat. I would say an Airedale then Wheaten since you have younger kids.
ReplyDeleteif you are worried about allergies maybe look into the shelters in your area if they have any hypoallergenic dogs that won't shed as much and when they do it will be real hair not fur. there are some great breads out there that are great with kids.
ReplyDeleteMini golden doodle!!! They are worth the money if they are more poodle than Golden because they don't shed. It's the poodle in them that makes them not shed and be good for people with allergies/asthma. So you can get them where the mom (or dad) is golden doodle and they are mixed with a poodle so it's 75% poodle. I was hesitant because I wasn't a poodle fan but trust me the no shedding is a huge blessing! The golden retriever in them is a sweet, calm, loyal family dog and the poodle in them is smart so ours does the coolest little tricks and plays hide and seek with the kids. And with a mini we put a pet door in our garage door so he can let himself in and out so there's no worry of having to rush home to let the dog out. Look online- there are ones out there that are not crazy expensive ($500). Well worth it!!!
ReplyDeleteLot's of Canine advice, I can go one better. I have a dog. I am Holly Richardson's father. Easa came running up to us as we were leaving church Easter Sunday. She was neglected, dirty, wet and miserable. We took her home and I fell in love with her. She resembles a Wheaton Terrier only smaller (14 lbs). It will break my heart to see her go, but three dogs are too many for our spread. Can send pictures. My # is 8707407334, or you can contact Holly if interested. She has not been spayed, but I would spring for expense if you don't want puppies ever. She loves to be loved and played with. Also I would be more than happy to let you "trial" her. When I saw this I thought maybe this is why she came into our lives.
ReplyDeleteOh, by the way, Lucy is my hero.
ReplyDeleteWe have a border collie. She is the best dog we have ever had. Bama (guess where I live!) is smart and very protective of her (my) children, but she is not aggressive. She loves attention and will pout if she gets ignored. Your kids would love a collie!!
ReplyDeleteWe have three Cockapoo's, Cocker Spaniel/Poodle mix. They are great for people with allergies and more affordable than the Golden Doodles. Our dogs range from 18-25 pounds and are all indoor dogs. They live up to 16 years. Our oldest is almost twelve and she is still lively and fun. I can't say enough great things about my dogs! If you are interested in a great rescue for Golden Doodles, there is one called the Doodle Rescue Collective. You can find their page on FB.
ReplyDeleteI just did this research myself as we just got our puppies. Doodle Rescue Collective does not adopt dogs out to families with children under the age of 10. The reason is that most dogs are returned or given up to begin with because of issues with young kids. I can say now from experience that i understand this rule. Puppies are boisterous and need to see everyone in the family as pack leader. It is hard for young kids to be alpha to a bigger dog. Also, Labradoodles and Goldendoodles need groomed every 6-8 weeks. Grooming at Petsmart can be $80 a pop. So figure that into your costs. In our case, I began looking for poodle mixes on Petfinder.com. We found an adorable sister pair of poodle terrier mixes. They are THE BEST dogs. We've had them for 3 weeks now. They are bonded together so they came together as the rescue didn't want to split them up. The amazing part about working with a rescue is a lot of the dogs are in foster homes and the foster mama can tell you SO MUCH about the dogs. They want a good fit for you and your family. In our case, our dogs were 6 months old. They had spent almost 2 months with the foster. She knew their personalities, had taught them to sit and walk on a leash, and basically housetrained them (one is perfect, the other has a few accidents). I would take this deal over getting a brand new puppy with no training or no knowledge about its temperment any day of the week. Our dogs are 15 and 16 lbs. each. Even at their size, it has been harder for my 4 yr old to control them when they jump on him, try to nibble his ears, etc. We have had a number of serious discussions about the importance of the kids consistently disciplining the dogs (i.e. if they jump on the couch uninvited, they need to say a firm "no" and push them off). At first, they pushed back "but I was about to invite them, etc." I think its sad how many dogs get given to the pound because they are "bad with kids" and the families did literally nothing to train the kids how to work with the dog, train the dog, etc. If my son acts like a puppy around the dogs, they will think he's a puppy. He needs to be the pack leader. Anyhow, I'm a fan of finding a puppy on Petfinder. Preferably from a foster home that knows a bit about the dogs. A bonus also is that they are showing you how they truly are (rather than a stressed out shelter dog who may or may not be acting like their regular selves). Also, I think 2 dogs together isn't a bad deal. Our girls crate together so they don't feel sad when we are gone. They have a member of their pack with them. It helps them a lot. Also, they play with eachother which helps expend some puppy energy. Dogs need two walks a day too. This is essential to prevent poor behavior, chewing remotes, etc. Anyhow, I've never posted before, but I wanted to share since we just went through this process. Your kids are precious. Best wishes to you!
ReplyDeleteAdopt a homeless dog.....so many wonderful dogs needing a home. I have had 5 poodles that were products of puppy mills....all wonderful pets. I don't suggest that you go get a poodle....just remember to include in your choices a wonderful shelter pup who will love you for giving him/her a home and family. Why pay for a dog when so many are available for you. Think about it. You will want to remember that many dogs shed and some don't....if allergies are a problem, try one of the breeds that don't, especially if it will be part house dog.
ReplyDeleteI wouldn't get a collie if you are worried about allergy issues. Look more at Wheaton terriers or smaller poodle mixes (maltipoo or cockapoo), or a Maltese. They are more hypoallergenic.
ReplyDeleteCollies are amazing as are shelties. My mothers law has a full sized collie (60 pounds) think of Lassie and my girls put bows on his fur, necklaces on him and use him for a pillow! When we are outside he keeps them and our cavalier King Charles in the propert boundaries! Btw CKCs are great dogs but we waited I until our youngest fully understood gentle...our CKC is 15 pounds and super sweet but more easily hurt by over zealous loving!
ReplyDeleteWe have American Eskimos-two, sisters. This is our second (and third). Our first one I got in college and she lived to sixteen. These are the easiest dogs I have ever had. They do not produce their own dander, so we very, very rarely have to bathe them, maybe only once or twice a year. Although I did not know it when we got them, they are completely hypoallergenic - the only dog a friend of ours allergist would let them get. They never smell and do not require grooming, except the occasional brushing and toenail clipping. The only drawback is they do shed, actually molt about twice a year. So those two weeks there is a lot of fur to Swiffer, but the rest of the year is fine. They are mainly indoor dogs, but they LOVE to be outside especially when we are. They love to go on walks - lots of excitement around that. They would love to lay in the sun for hours at a time, but we live in Texas and I worry about them overheating. My only pointer would be to get a puppy so that he/she can adjust to your family. Our boys were 4 and 6 when we got them and the dogs completely love them. We are the dogs' family and they take their position in the family very seriously; they bark at anyone who comes to the door, but they are very sweet. Mitzie will go up to most people, sit down and paw your leg so that you will bend down and pet her. Bailey is more skittish; she likes to bark at new people, but will run away if they approach her.
ReplyDeleteI don't have any advise on a puppy - we have a mini doxie and love her to pieces.
ReplyDeleteI was just looking at the sweet pix and it looks as though sweet Lucy has angel wings on her back! I know it's her backpack but I just thought it was too sweet! We know she's definitely an angel in many hearts!! :)
I am so glad this was found out and there is an easy solution!! Praying all goes smoothly and this does not upset your routine too much.
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your new school year kids!
Adopt!!! If you need to be carefully of allergies talked to a rescue group and take the kids to really play with the dog before, you might even ask to take the dogs bedding etc home and have the most sensitive person sleep near it. Getting a pure breed doesn't mean you won't have allergies it just means another dog is left to suffer in a shelter. I have serious allergies and an autoimmune disease my adopted "poodle-ish" was the most amazing dog and never gave me a reaction. There are rescue groups for so many breeds so you won't have any problems finding your perfect family dog if you try!
ReplyDeleteWe have a miniature schnauzer, and she is a wonderful little dog. We rescued her off of the street two years ago. She's the perfect combination of playful and cuddly. I would suggest finding a schnauzer rescue organization in your area so you don't pay "pure bred" prices. She doesn't shed at all, which is perfect since you're worried about allergies. She doesn't seem to bother anyone with allergies when they come over. Oh, and by the way...her name is Lucy, and she is named after your daughter :-)
ReplyDeleteI know you have plenty of advice when it comes to dogs, but here are my two cents. If you are worried about allergies, stick with a hypoallergenic pup. Many of the "designer breeds" claim to be, but aren't always. I have a five year old Portuguese Water Dog and would highly recommend that breed. He's a perfect size, amazing temperament, and loves to be right with you. Requires daily walks, but also loves to curl up with you on the couch. Good luck with your decision. There's nothing better than growing up with a dog and to have a built in best friend. I am sure Lucy's self esteem will just sky rocket.
ReplyDeleteI pulled 4 puppies from the side of road a few weeks ago. So sad that people just throw them away. I already have 6 and need to find them homes. They are beagle mixes but really cute. If you want I can send you pictures. Thanks.. And you life is always inspiring to me! Love reading your blogs..
ReplyDeletePS.. Puppies are FREE.. :)
Here is one of the,.. So sweet
ReplyDeleteBernese Mountain dogs are a gentle breed. They also look like living stuffed animals when they are babies. I have people pull over on the side of the road and ask me: "What kind of dog is that" all of the time. True beauties, inside & out.
ReplyDeleteI went to pick out one pup and I ended up with two. :)
Check out your local animal shelter!! Adopt, don't shop!
ReplyDeleteDogs need to go out more than 2 times a day!
ReplyDeleteAlexis, you need to re-read what I wrote. Dogs need two WALKS a day. Of course, they go out in the yard way more than that to potty, play, sniff around, etc. But I am talking about two structured walks. It exercises their mind and body. Many people think they can get a dog and just letting it outside in the yard is enough. The dog gets pent up frustration/etc. and ends up being destructive, etc. The walk not only teaches them manners and that you are alpha which helps them respect you as a pack leader in the house, etc. but it gives them mental and physical exercise. I personally would not get a dog unless I was willing to commit to daily walks.
ReplyDelete