I have two answers to this. One is long and explanatory, and the second straight to the point. We'll start with the former.
First of all, puppy raisers know we have to give them back going into it. We know that our pups are only on loan to us for an all-too-short amount of time. And we sign up for it anyways with the hope of having the privilege to be a small part in helping someone gain independence. If there is one thing we do not want to hear it is "I could never do that." Yes you could. It won't be any easier for me to give back a dog that I have taught, mentored, loved and has been with me almost 24/7 for the last 16 months, than you would. We all will cry and sob and question the decision we made over a year ago to take this puppy in the first place.
But I have to tell you: these puppies bring so much to our lives in the time that we have them, that if you ask me (or anyone who has raised a puppy), I would definitely do it again. If I had the choice to never have to give him up and never have known him; or having him in my life for even a short amount of time, I will do it again in a heartbeat (and I plan to :-).
I have heard it put this way "the pride lasts a lot longer than the sadness." And even though I have not had to turn in a puppy yet, I think this is very true. To see the puppy you have raised go on to reach their fullest potential and be such an important part in someone's life must be an amazing feeling. As much as I will miss Dante when he goes back to CCI next year, I truly want him to succeed in whatever career he chooses.
The second answer I have is much, much shorter and straight to the point. But I think it will be the one I remind myself of the most in the weeks and days heading up to Dante's turn in. So, here it is: I think giving them back is one of those things that you never really know how you do, but God gives you the strength to do as you're doing it. And that is truly comforting.
So, puppy raisers, what is your answer to this question?
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| 11 week old Dante |
I get that question a lot i always say " as hard as it is to give them up when you see them with their partner and see the difference the pup you raised makes in their persons life it makes it worth it"
ReplyDeleteI have several responses, like you, long and short versions. Basically, my two short version ones are, I can live without him, a person with a disability can't... and, God gave His only Son for me, how can I not give him up?
ReplyDeleteI am humbled by each and every puppy raiser I meet. You are all amazing! The words "thank you" doesn't even begin to express our gratitude for what you have given to our family.
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