Sooner or later, everyone goes to the zoo.


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A puppy named Sloane

In Elementary School Steve was a member of the debate club. After High School, he was selling knives. By the time I met him, he was selling Jesus. Since 2000 he’s been selling a prettier internet. I never had a chance, you see.

Back in August, when Steve first proposed we bring a dog back into our family, my heart was two parts still aching from the loss of Ferris (our boxer who is not dead, but with a new owner), and one part relieved our lives weren’t restricted by canine needs, expenses and messes. Understandably, I said, “Forget it, buddy.”

In September, when Steve asked again, this time with less flippancy, I said no again and hoped, with time, his puppy ache would fade. In October, he brought it up and didn’t drop it. When I left for my retreat in November, even though I clung to my no, I nine-tenths expected to come home to a dog.

In early December, we reached our breaking point with the back and forth. We went for brunch while Emma was at a sleepover and agreed this would be our final Dog Conversation, regardless of the outcome. I was munching on my eggs benny and holding my ground until Steve said this:

“Any mess, expense or sacrifices are worth what an animal brings to our lives. Emma has one childhood, and I’d like to fill it with love.”

She’s an 8-week old, rust-coloured Vizsla. In the movie, “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” Ferris’ girlfriend’s name was Sloane. We think it’s a fitting connection to the dog who first stole our hearts. Sloane is Christmas come early, and after five months of sales pitches, I’m all in. Welcome to my heart, Sloane. Stop shitting in my house, please. (Within five minutes of arrival, she pooped and Emma puked. It’s all class around here.)

Merry ho-ho, everyone.

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14 Responses to “Sooner or later, everyone goes to the zoo.”

  1. SewTara replied on

    Hehe, awwww sounds like you’d better watch out if there’s anything else that Steve guy wants, you stand no chance! :) She’s adorable and you will love her.

    Reply
    • Shannon replied on

      This is so true, Tara. I draw the line at say… a house-ban on chocolate. TO THE DEATH.

      Reply
    • Shannon replied on

      Hopefully the puking is done. The other will take a bit longer. I’m okay with that. Thanks!

      Reply
  2. Lynne replied on

    Welcome little Sloane! She’s a lucky dog–getting to join a very rad family :) Can’t wait to meet her!

    Reply
  3. Kathy replied on

    She is perfect! Steve is a smart man, a dog shares it unique kind of selfless love!

    Enjoy your perfect little lady, eventually they stop pooping in the house, usually!

    Reply
  4. MizYank replied on

    Pets: Big, furry balls of healing, happiness and heartbreak. Sloane got lucky–you have a beautiful family! When the Yanks are done adopting you maybe you can return the favor and adopt us.

    Reply
  5. Peach replied on

    I think I’ve liked every Instagram you or Steve have posted, because Sloane is so damn cute. I will dogsit for you any time. Say the word. Wait… um… give me about a month’s notice to buy a plane ticket. ;) So happy for you all and keep the puppypics coming!

    Reply

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