Today I adopted a dog.
He’s a 3-year-old pit mix. A rescue from Cincinnati who made his way to PA last week. He’s about as sweet as can be. He walks well on the leash, knows how to sit and stay and come, and is very affectionate. His name is Gus, but I’m thinking of changing it to either Burnside or Kimbrough (the names of two blues musicians that I really like). I like the sound of Kimbrough better, but Burnside means I could call him Mr. Burns or give him some mittens and call him Bernie. I wasn’t sure about changing the name of an older dog, but in some cases, their old name could be associated with abuse, and a new name can help them settle into a new environment. Besides – he doesn’t seem to respond to Gus. If I’m being honest, I think he might be partially, or mostly, deaf – he doesn’t seem to respond to noise. I’ve called his name and his ears didn’t even perk up. I’ve snapped my fingers near him – also no response. However, he seems to know the sound of a treat bag being opened.
I’ve been “shopping” around for a dog for about a week or so. A lot of the ones I was interested in had behavioral issues – either they weren’t comfortable with new people or other dogs or kids. I can’t say I’m surprised that the dogs out here aren’t socialized – if I had to guess, it has something to do with a more solitary, mountain town lifestyle. In the city, dogs just see a lot more other dogs and owners tend to want to socialize their dogs. Because I expect to have a walker come by on the days / nights I have to put in extra hours at work, I needed a dog that would at least be ok with meeting new people. I also didn’t want to be in a situation where I couldn’t have guests over or always had to cross the street when walking and apologize… “sorry, my dog’s an asshole. It’s not you – it’s him…”
I’ve only spent a few hours with him, but I think I lucked out with this guy. He’s settled in quickly. He sits next to me on the sofa, where he sleeps and snores. He’s already climbed in my lap when I’ve gotten on the floor with him, he’s rolled over for belly rubs, given kisses, and just seems easy going. I still miss my buddy Nick – and Paris and Murphy before him. I felt a little guilty getting a new pet – like I was somehow dishonoring their memory. But I’m happy to give another furry co-pilot a chance at a decent life. I’m looking forward to whatever adventures await.
