It's come true. And as much as I hate to admit it, everyone that warned me that these feelings would come was right. I tried to tell myself this could never happen, but it was only a matter of time. {big sigh}
Our dogs are not our 'children' anymore. They are just dogs now.
For almost a decade Lacy has been by our side, and for the last 4 years, Bailey has been part of our family as well. These two girls were our world and our 'children' the entire time pre-Drew. I didn't believe my friends when they said things change when you have a child. How could they? These pups are were the best dogs ever and I couldn't have imagined them being anything other than that.
Let me stop now and say that it has nothing to do with Drew. They are absolutely wonderful with him. He climbs all over them, pokes them in the eyes, pulls their tails and they put up with it all. They shower him with kisses and love to be in whatever room he is in.
No, this blog has to do with Derek and my annoyance levels as of the past couple months. Whether it's in our head, or they really are getting more annoying, they really have lost their status within our household. Besides needing to go out more than they usually do, the amount of grass or mulch eaten and then thrown up in the house is getting out of hand. The level of dirt we have to wipe out of their feet each trip outside is frustrating. But what bugs me most is the barking, especially when Drew is napping. Although the stealing and eating pacifiers and small toys comes in a close second.
I love them both dearly, but we do mention how nice it would be to be able to send them to a farm to roam free for a year. The winter plays a part in their situation as they don't get to run with us or visit the park and therefore their energy levels are at all-time highs. I also know this phase will pass, but for now they are on Santa's naughty list and I don't see them transferring to the nice list anytime soon!
Just so that you don't think we are horrible dog parents, we did switch their food and it seems to be better in that they are eating less grass. We also are going to try and bundle up enough to let them run at the park more often, if even for just a few minutes.
Yeah, I know what you mean about them moving down in status. I love Neuman so much, but he tends to get yelled at a lot for being in the way, licking everything, and just annoying me. That being said, Sam absolutely ADORES him. They are best buds, inseparable. Sam even loves the cats, and they tolerate him very well. So, I guess they can stay ;) I can't wait until Sam gets a chore list-feeding the animals will be his first assignment!
ReplyDeleteI can totally relate. Our lab is such a pain, she wants to be in on everything that is going on. I do love her sweet side and how she just loves our attention after the kids go to bed. I hope winter goes by fast so your dog children can get outside more!
ReplyDeletemy poor granddoggies! makes me so saaaad to read this. you must realize their behavior is at least partially BECAUSE they are no longer your children with a calm, quiet home with them at the center of attention and love. maybe more alone, together time with them would help? when drew is napping or in bed in evenings...some total attention to them?
ReplyDelete