What my "first baby" taught me

I had grown up having dogs a part of my family. When I left home one month shy of my 19^th birthday the first thing I wanted was a dog. I felt empty with out a loyal companion. But the realty of making it on my own it me hard and fast and I decided I better wait until I was able to feed my self before I fed a dog too.  After about a year of being away from home, I felt confident enough to take on the huge responsibility of being a dog owner. My parents had taught me that dogs are a part of the family and no matter what your circumstances you must take care of your family. So I knew that when I got my first dog there was no changing my mind or giving it away, that dog would be with me as long as it was alive.

I decided I didn’t want just any dog, I wanted an English Mastiff! I still remember my father’s reaction when I told him what breed I was going to get. “Why do you have to get a dog that big?” I wasn’t exactly sure why, I had done research and the breed fascinated me.  My mom kept saying “you better train that dog well, because a dog that size CAN’T be out of control.  But I had made my mind up and there was no changing it now.

So I called a local breeder in town and scheduled time to go see the litter. I knew I wanted a female and I had already picked a name, Gaea, the Goddess of Earth! When I got to the breeder she brought out a dog that she felt like would be good for me. This puppy was the runt and was much smaller and passive than the other puppies. She handed me the female puppy and immediately the puppy found comfort in my long hair and got the hiccups. I knew it, this was my Gaea! On the drive home panic started to set in, she was mine, my responsibility. I had to get her shots, potty train her, teach her obedience and feed her! What if I failed? This was a test for me. If I couldn’t take care of a dog, how would I ever be able to be a mother? I felt the pressure from my parents, waiting to see how this turned out.

The first couple months Gaea required so much attention. It took her a while before she couldn’t make it through the night with out going outside. She chewed on everything, phones, walls, shoes and so on. She hated the leash. I would literally drag her around the block to get her use to the leash. Oh, and the food, she ate so much. I remember during one period she gained 5 pounds a week for like 6 weeks straight. Soon though she was house trained and walked right next to me whether she had a leash on or not. I spent so much time with her. She filled my heart with joy.  People would stop us in the park and ask “Where did you take her to get trained” I would reply, “I did it my self!” I was proud of how she was turning out. She gave me confidence that I could handle responsibility. She also turned into my best friend. 

For ten years Gaea had been with me through heart brakes, break-ups, college graduation, moving, marriage and a baby.  She helped me grow into the woman I am today. The bond we developed goes beyond words.  Gaea lived for me and I for her. There have been so many times that I have thought-“Why can’t more people be like Gaea”- loyal, sweet, smart, and pure. The lessons she has taught are invaluable. Even in her final days she is taught me a lesson.  The lesson of letting go… even though you want to hold on so tight. The lesson of doing what is best even if it is the hardest thing you have ever done.  Gaea will always be with me…. Until we meet again!

Now I am fortunate enough to have another blessing, Athena, who is not only teaching me life lessons but also her buddy Hunter!