Lindsey moved in

22 August 2011 0 Comments

We welcome Lindsey, a four-year-old, full-blood salt-and-pepper miniature schnauzer into our home. Jessica’s parents have owned her since she was a puppy, but recently decided that they couldn’t give her the attention she needs in an otherwise good home. So, they asked us to take her.

I don’t think they would have given her away except that they knew we really liked her, so the condition of us taking her was that we don’t give her away to anyone else. Deal. We had her for a three-week visit earlier this year, and while sometimes she can be a handful, most of the time she’s just a joy and I’ve grown really attached to her.

Lindsey has a LOT of energy, but she stays out of trouble and is quite calm and relaxed most of the time. Her and I have started practicing the basic commands: sit, come, stay, and most importantly, no. She’s a fast learner! Also, we will soon be learning how to go for walks without a leash. Our biggest challenge will be to keep her from jumping onto people when they come to the door, which really isn’t too bad and only lasts for a few minutes until she calms down on her own.

Lindsey doesn’t bark at all, unless someone’s at the door or she’s out in public (like at PetSmart where there are other dogs). Also, she’s very good about letting you know when she’d like to go outside to handle “business”, either by resting her head on your lap while you’re sitting, or on the edge of the bed if you’re sleeping, accompanied by pacing the floor or fidgeting. Good doggie! But you’d better pay attention to those, because when it’s time to “go”, she’s gonna “go”.

As you may already know, we already have a couple of cats, Romano and Jack. Romano has already accepted her and has no problem sitting next to her as long as she’s not too close. What’s really entertaining is when Lindsey gets amped up and runs around the house, Romano will eventually get up and chase her down, stop her, and stare her down in an authoritative manner as if to say “Alright, dammit, that’s enough.” You should see it!

Jack is taking a bit more time, usually staying in totally opposite rooms of the house, but at least he’s not hiding under the bed all day anymore. She doesn’t chase after him the instant she sees him like she used to, although I can totally understand why she would: Jack is small, extra fuzzy, and fast. Team that with Lindsey’s natural curiosity and fascination for small critters, and you get a blur of action that reminds me of Coyote and Roadrunner cartoons.

I’m really happy to have her and I’ve grown really attached. Ronnie and Betty would be happy to know that she’s in good hands.