Empty Nesters get dogs. Yep it is true. I know several Empty Nesters who have gotten dogs. I am one of them.
I would not really consider us “dog people”. You know what I mean, people who don’t mind being jumped on and slobbered on. But after 5 1/2 months with Rocco, I think we are coming over to the other side. I believe what we did on our recent weekend vacation, allowed us to join the Unofficial “We love dogs” Club. While vacationing in Napa, we did not shop for something for us, we went straight to the super hip and trendy Fideaux Outfitters for Dogs and Cats. What a store! They carried every chic toy and gadget you would need. All of the treats were organic of course, probably “handcrafted” as well. You should have heard us…”Look at the Christmas collars, oh they even have leashes with Santas on them!”
I can guarantee you that my husband would have bet his car that we would never be in a store like that, let alone enthusiastically choosing dog goodies for Rocco! I can’t really say that we have Rocco to replace our kids, however, I do find myself treating him like a baby. It’s really kind of silly. He is super sweet and I have to admit it is very heartwarming that someone is so exited to see me when I come home that he “piddles” on the floor.
Have any of you tried to fill up the Empty Nest with a new dog?
Hi there!
Love your blog – it’s a wonderful idea. What do you do with Rocco when you travel? I adore my Lani but we refuse to take her to a kennel. Happy New Year!
Sara
Thank you Sara! We have some wonderful dog sitters through http://www.wizardofpawz.us
I have known the founder Kristie Garduno, for six years. It makes traveling so easy and Rocco LOVES THEM! Happy New Year to you! I look forward to you writing about what you guys are doing!
Funny you should ask. My kids wanted a dog growing up but I told them with 3 kids and working a job it was too much for me to handle. Now the kids are grown up and I have my 90 yr old parents living with me. Big Kids! I was thinking maybe I should get a dog. Mom loves dogs. I don’t have a fenced in yard. Mom is blind, Dad has Alzheimer’s. So the thought of losing the dog during the day when I’m at work is not good.
Carol: That is a very touching story. You are juggling a lot of balls in the air! The yard may be an issue, unless you just get a little dog. Those dogs are sweet and could sit with your parents and cuddle all day long! Thank you for sharing. I hope you write on the blog some of your unique stories!