Pack Dynamics

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You know my Toby left me 4 months ago today. I know what happened…I was there when he passed over the Rainbow Bridge.

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And I’ve been happy being the ‘only dog’ at home. I have my pack of friends–Toby II, Macy, Caly and Tucker–and, if you’ve read my stories, you know a little about them. Oh, and there’s my boyfriend Wyatt, but he’s moving to Montana.

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My friends, Caly and Tucker, are about my size. We meet often and  have a romping good time! Toby II and Macy live across the street and were the very first members of my extended pack. Macy is 12-years old and is a lab/pit mix. I think I’m the only one (well, besides her bro, Toby II) who can jump all over her and get her to play. Toby II is a big dog that’s a Great Pyrenees/Husky mix.

The phone rang the other day and I knew it was Toby II and Macy’s Mom…how many of you recognize your human friends ring-tone?  Yes, I really do. I know it means something good is going to happen. Well, this time, I wasn’t so sure. She decided to foster a dog. Not just any dog, but a 2-year old Saint Bernard named Haley. A BIG dog.You say, “piece of cake”. Well, not so fast. We first met on a walk around the block. I studiously ignored her. Mom was a little surprised as this isn’t my usual reaction to a new dog. I meet and greet with the best of you.

Not this time.

The next day, we all met in their house. We always have good treats and I usually entice Toby II and Macy to play.

Not this time.

Haley was in the room and I was a little scared. She didn’t do anything and just wanted to be loved (that’s what Mom says). But, I was scared. My Toby would have known what to do, but he’s not here to tell me anymore. I have to figure out these things myself now. And sometimes it’s hard.

Mom said a little exposure every day will help, so the next day, we went over again. I stayed outside. I could tell the humans were having a good time inside, but I thought looking for my neighbor’s kitties was a better thing to do. I was there, but not there, you know? They just let me do my own thing. I have to think about this Haley thing a bit more.

Today, we met in my neighbor’s backyard. Were things a little different today? Did I feel a bit better about Haley?I didn’t go over and sniff her, but maybe she’s OK. I got a little closer, but still ignored her a bit.Then, the magic word “treats” was heard by all! Toby II showed up (he ignores Haley too). I got a bit closer.Finally, we all got in the picture. I was happy with the progress I’ve made.

Mom said she wonders whether I need a playmate at home…extend my pack a bit more. Give me some more confidence. I tell her this is the way I’ve always been. Remember how I was when she gave my Toby and me an antler? I hid under the desk until Toby showed me it was OK.  I’m picky about my furiends, but when I find one I like…well, I really like them. Nothing wrong with that…I just have to warm up to them.

But, having a new sister or brother? I have to think about that.

A lot.