My wife and I are "senior citizens". Married 50 years, we've always had dogs... up until about 2 years ago. Bogey and Eddie, 17 and 16, both went to doggie heaven within a few months of each other. At our age, we considered not owning another dog. After the hiatus from owning a dog, we finally decided something was needed to motivate conversation in the evenings. "Dog did that." "Dog didn't do this." So.... Wife wanted a lap dog. Something small. Our last two dogs were Poms. Our back deck has a fairly long flight of steps to get down to the back yard. So, I suggested we get a mid-sized dog since he/she would be better able to negotiate the stairs. Well, we ended up with a 70 pound lap dog!!!!! We adopted Abby in January. She is estimated to be about 2 years old. Picked up as a stray in Oklahoma, pregnant, she was put in a kill shelter. A local rescue group brought her up here, let her bear a litter of 9 puppies, weaned them, and then put her up for adoption. She was spayed and we brought her home. No hair from the midsection back. Skin and bones with ribs showing. She really looked ragged. Abby has been a phenomenal addition to our home!!! We could not have asked for a better dog to live with two "old folks". Abby goes to bed at 9 p.m. each night. She is almost impossible to get up at 7 a.m. If a thunderstorm is brewing or she hears a siren outside, she will wander into our bedroom and sniff a couple times to make sure we are okay. Then, back to her bed. We've never had any issues with house training, etc. As mentioned in my original post, Abby takes me for a 3 1/2 to 4 mile walk at least 6 days/week. That has been good for both of us. In the evenings, she will crawl up in my wife's recliner... with my wife in it. On our walks, Abby has done very well. She loose leads and we get along except... when she spies a squirrel. She doesn't mind people, other dogs, cars, etc. We have squirrels who reside in the trees in our backyard. They constantly agitate her by getting just higher than she can reach and sit there "chirping" at her. So, on our walks... she thinks she can seek revenge. Sorry about the length of the post. Just really pleased with Abby, our Black Lab.
Love this post! So happy that Abby has found a home with you. Welcome to the forum from me and my choccy girl Ella (13 months) from Melbourne, Australia
Was lovely to read your post So glad that the three of you have become one happy family. Totally understand that thing about having to get another dog so you have something to talk about My hubby and I often talk 'through' the dog...."Obi, tell Daddy that someone has left a big mess of crumbs on the kitchen bench again...".
What a lovely story We rescued a dog Daze when we were living in CA and brought her back to Enfland with us. She lived to 16 and was a truly amazing dog. There's just something about a rescue, it's a special bond. She sounds lovely! So glad you are enjoying her. Look forward to some pictures! Sam and Mole
Lovely post to read - wonderful that you and Abbey are making each other so happy. The squirrel vendetta amused me as my dog has similar feelings about seagulls that dare perch on our house.
Wonderful post, what a lovely dog Abbey is. Welcome to the forum Walker from Fred, Annie my two black labs and me. Hope to hear more about Abbey.
Welcome to the Forum,what a lovely post,I'm so glad Abby settled in so well and has become such a loved member of the family x
Welcome to you, your wife and Abby from Hattie 8 years and our rescue boy Charlie 5 years. Your story has warmed my heart, I am so happy you found Abby to join you, she sounds perfect. If Squirrels were my only problem I'd be laughing Helen x
We cannot believe how lucky/blessed we were with letting Abby become part of the family. We had visits from a number of candidates in our home. Something about Abby just clicked. She has been truly remarkable fitting in with use "old folk".
Thanks to all for you kind welcoming!!! I don't post much, but will be lurking... attempting to learn from the rest of you.
Hi and welcome from our little pack....Benson, Casper and Bramble. Sounds like Abby has really found her paws with you both
Hi and welcome from me and Dexter, loved reading your post and hearing about your previous dogs and your lovely new lease of life and conversation Abbey. She sounds a real treasure
A very warm welcome from me and my black girl Lilly. Abby sounds just perfect. A good match all round. jac x
Welcome to the forum. Sounds as if you and your wife and Abby have rescued each other. An ideal partnership.
Hi and welcome from me and Harley Abby sounds like she is the perfect for your family. It takes someone special to take a rescue and give them a home. I look forward to hearing more about the lovely girl. P.S. Harley can't resist chasing squirrels either
