October is Adopt-A-Shelter-Dog Month

Ern “the man”

There was no doubt in my head when it was time to add another pet to our family that I would adopt. I had adopted a dog and 2 cats before and had GREAT experiences.

So there I was, on Petfinder.com looking at all the adoptable dogs. I didn’t really have too many requirements other than I wanted to go a little smaller, if possible. I had had 2 mixed breeds, both about 65# and thought I might like a smaller dog. I knew I needed something “sturdy” though. I have a big family and a busy household and I just did not want a dog that would get hurt or not adjust well to my kids. So I was looking at all the closest Humane Societies and rescues to see what they had available. Then it happened! I came upon a picture of what looked to be a pug mix. “I’ve always wanted a pug-looking dog,” I said to myself. I will set up an appointment to meet this dog.

I filled out my application and e-mailed it to the rescue right away. Shortly thereafter, I got a reply that he was part of a litter of 3 and they wanted to know if I wanted to meet all 3. “Is this even a real question,” I thought? “Of course I do!” I told the rescue.

         So, the day came and I was in the room with all 3 little babies and of course they were ALL adorable. How will I choose? Good thing I had brought someone along to help me with this hard decision. The little pug looking baby was completely awesome. He was feisty though. He pushed the other two out of the way a lot. So, I started to pay more attention to the other two to see if I could get an idea of their personalities. The little girl was cute but the gal from the rescue said she had a potential adopter already so, I thought I’d set my sights on the boys. The last puppy was a little boy. He was very charming and, of course, a little cutie. He looked to be a terrier mix of some sort. He had wiry hair and reminded me of a black and tan Schnauzery looking dog. He would come up to me and cuddle but he wasn’t an “in your face” kind of dog. He really seemed like he would be a good fit. “Terriers are sturdy”, I said to myself. But, what about the pug-like dog I had always wanted? I liked them both! How do I choose? The friend that was with me offered no help either. “I think either one would be great,” she said. So……I went home with no one. I spent the night thinking about which one I liked better and for what reasons I liked them. The next morning it was as clear as the day that had just started. The little terrier was the one. I called immediately!

 I was very excited to bring him home and start loving him. He has made it very easy! We named him “Ernie” and he’s been with us 4 ½ years now. He’s been a great addition and he’s so smart. Smarter than us I think sometimes. I had him in agility class for a while and he was GREAT at it. My schedule, however, prevented us from continuing. Maybe someday we’ll go back to it. Ernie has brought our entire family so much joy over the years and I have NEVER regretted choosing him. He has a habit of eating desserts off the counter. We’ve had to induce vomiting a few times after he’s gotten food off the counter, and I still have not figured out how a 25# dog gets up there to get it. I may have to set up a trail-cam but until then, all food stays behind doors! Despite this bad habit, he makes me laugh; his personality is one of a kind and he’s great to snuggle with. I love him to pieces and I hope to have him a long, long time! He’s my little Ern ”the man” and I wouldn’t trade him for anything.

Lisa Lambie