2.
Future Two-dogmomager!
You're a boss and your dogmomager skills can definitely make this work! Your first fur-kid will eventually thank you for giving them the sibling they didn't know they needed!BUT, you definitely see where the challenges are. Whether it's that your only-pup is skittish around other dogs, your finances aren't as solid as you'd like them to be, or your time is often stretched, you know that adding another dog to the family is not going to be a walk in the dog park--at least not at first.But, you relish a challenge, and you're so certain you want to expand your dog family that you're eager to do whatever it takes to make this work! Ready to do some prep work? It's not necessarily fun--kind of like cutting up veggies for the week--but if you're mindful of the process, you and your current pup will enjoy the journey!1) If The Hurdle Is Your Pup's Willingness to Love Another Dog Do some reading or YouTube viewing by your favorite trainer (we love Lucky Dog). Take notes and decide which steps you'll take for helping your dog find the joy in having a canine pack. For instance, create a plan for extra socializing for your pup through walking groups in your neighborhood. Avoid the dog parks, as that type of intense contact can backfire and make your dog LESS comfortable around others. Use Instagram and local hashtags to find other dogmoms who also want small play dates or pack walks! Getting your pup accustomed to being around other dogs routinely will make is less stressful when one comes home for good. 2) If The Hurdle Is FinancialYes, two dogs are more expensive--twice the food, twice the grooming, twice the vet expense, and so on. Sit down and budget how much more a month you'll need to properly care for your new furry bundle. Now, go through your current spending and determine what you can cut out or reduce to make up for those expenses. Maybe you can reduce vet costs through doggie health insurance or perhaps there's a subscription service that will save you money on dog food. Whatever you do, be resourceful and patient. You don't have to add another dog NOW, and you can enjoy getting your finances in order while plotting how much fun you have when you're in better shape. 3) If The Hurdle is Time...or the Lack Thereof"Most of us spend too much time on what is urgent and not enough time on what is important." Stephen Covey.I believe in this quote. We have time for what we make time for. If we believe we "don't have enough time," then we don't. So if a worry about lack of time is the issue, I recommend you take some time to reboot your life and your schedule. Read some time-management or life coaching books, and create space in your life for the important things...more dogs to love. In the meantime...Hi there! My name is Karen Lena Izzo. I’m a writer, a long, long time dog lover, and the founder of The Small Dog Rules, where we take small dogs seriously. Although I enjoy dressed-up Instagram pupfluencers as much as the next #dogmom, I'm more about helping people understand that small dogs are as canine as the golden retriever or lab next door. In fact, I've written a popular book about it: Downward Sizing Dog: A Reformed Big Dog Snob Defends the Small Dog Life.At Small Dog Rules, I celebrate the powerful beings parceled in small dog frames. Both in my book and in my blog, you'll find the science and stories to help you live and your small dog live your best lives. If you know the love of a small dog--or think maybe you should--come over to my website. And you may just want to sign up for my newsletter, where I share important small dog news, nutrition, and wellness tips. I'd love to have you!
