I believe that in marriage everyone cuts their own deal. We agree to things. We put up with things. We accept things. That’s all part of love. I believe it’s true with all relationships, really, including those with our dogs. That’s why when someone I “know” from another online community posted a note about a promise she made, I realized it was something I would not do.
Here’s the deal. She wrote a popular blog about her dog, even published a book about him. Then, he suddenly died. She was crushed. Still … there was another dog (older, same breed) who needed a home, so she adopted her, loved her. Now, it seems this dog too may be quite ill and might not last long.
That’s all sad, for sure. My heart breaks for her, especially since she’s the rare person who knowingly and happily adopts geriatric dogs even if it means only a few years together. In this case, she’s had the new dog only a few months.
But, here’s the kicker: She promised her husband this would be her last dog since he’d really rather not have pets at all.
What?
Now, I’ve said before that Tom and I both agree that 2 dogs is our limit. It’s what we can handle. It’s what we can afford. And yet, we both know that if his mother got another dog, and it needed a home down the road, it would live with us.
I know others who draw the line at 4 or 6 or 10. It’s all what you’re willing to take on.
But, none?
Well, for me, that would be non-negotiable. That’s one promise I would not make.
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