A friend for Bell?
Hey hey š Hope you had a great day! I loved hearing about your at-home workout options š
After I last *saw* you guys, I grabbed a water and a plum
[my favorite reusable bottle bit the dust yesterday, so Iām the market for a new one]
and went to spin.
Iād been avoiding class (even from my favorite teacher!) since LA Fitness made their music policy super lame. Instructors have to pick up CDs to use from the desk and can only use LA Fitness music. I was thinking about canceling my membership (especially since I can work out at work and on base), but decided to give it one more try, especially since I heard a rumor that some instructors still use their own music.
The verdict? Class was AWESOME, but the music was horrendous. My fave instructor is still using their CDs, so we got to rock out to todayās newest hits, including āIām Blue Da Ba Deeā and āBeepā by Pussycat Dolls. Except none of the songs were the original artists- instead, we got their whiny, techno wannabes. I die.
I may be canceling my membership anywayā¦
Some eats:
Brown rice toast, arugula, tomatoes, egg and nutritional yeast
and snacktime was eaten on the patio with Bella, watching her chase birds.
Protein fluff (peanut butter, Sun Warrior, almond milk and cinnamon)
+ organic fruit š
So Iāve been trying to spend extra time with Bella lately because we think she may be depressed.
Itās weird because sheās moved with us many times before, and is a pro at it, but sheās having a rough time getting used to the new casa. Sometimes when we leave, weāll come back and sheāll be sleeping by the door waiting for us. She kind of mopes around (when sheās usually so spunky and happy!) and I think sheās bored. Even though we walk her everyday and play with her, I think she misses her sissy and feels lonely.
[Even though her sissy not-so-secretly wanted to eat her. Vies is now queen of the castle with good friends of ours, and we still get to see her all the time, which we love]
Weāre thinking about getting a friend for Bella to keep her company while weāre out and about, but are trying to figure it all out. Ideally, weād like to adopt a dog who is a few years old and housetrained already āhousetraining a puppy in a new house would be no bueno- and have it be closer to Bellaās size, like other dogs and possibly the same breed (maltipoo). I also think it may help for when the baby arrives- Bell will have someone to play with while weāre extra busy getting into the swing of things with a new baby.
Have you ever been in a similar situation?
Hope you all have a great night and Iāll see ya in the morning <3
xoxo
Gina
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I have been thinking the same for my pom! She sits on the stairs and sleeps when we are gone and just waits for us to come home. Makes me sad… a bff could be just what she needs š
Aww poor Bell! A new puppy would be the best thing ever. Well…ALMOST the best thing ever — you’ve got someone else on the way to take the #1 spot š
She’s moved 3 or 4 times over the past few months. Plus your pregnant and dogs and cats can react really crazy when the mom of the house is pregnant and there is all kinds of crazy hormones going on. Our friends maltese wouldn’t go NEAR her until she was about 6 months. How about a doggie day care? Sounds crazy, but lots of people do it! She, herself, is also getting older and probably doesn’t respond to situations in the same manner as before. I can’t imagine taking on a new dog and a new baby, you are so, so brave my dear!
My cousin and neighbour have both tried their hand at fostering. They place an appropriate dog with you while they look for a home for it but it gives you time to “test run” the dog. If the dog ends up being a good match you can always adopt the doggy yourself! Both have very different circumstances (my neighbour has a mild physical disability) but somehow ended up keeping their fosters even though they kept saying “we are only fostering him/her”.
weird about the music – is it to avoid ascap fees? lame.
sweet Bella… I was going to suggest a non pup dog, we adopted Basil from Oregon Dachshund Rescue when he was five! š and yes, it would be good for her to have a friend when Baby Fitnessista arrives… š
If you’re willing to consider another breed, I definitely recommend Cavalier King Charles Spaniels!!! We have 2 and they are the best, sweetest, happiest little lap dogs ever. There are 2 good rescue organizations if you’re interested…..many of those dogs are a little older than a puppy and house trained. Our second is a rescue and is a total sweetheart š
We just got a Cavalier King Charles puppy and are completely in love with her. She loves kids, too!
a cavalier is my #1 choice but the pilot vetoed it :/
Boo to him! Take him to see some anyway-he’ll fall in love immediately! š
We had to get our puppy a friend too. Now they love each other. Basset hounds are very relaxed, happy and friendly. Especially with children. We love our Marty. Bella will only get more depressed when the baby comes š Good luck!
But then I am sure when the baby grows older they will be the best of friends!!! š
We got a “brother” for our cat when he seemed lonely. Best decision ever!
my fur-baby grew up with two big brothers. when the boys both had to be put to sleep a few months later (they were both older dogs that had been with us for a long time), my big baby was really lonesome and depressed. it was pretty obvious she missed her doggy family. I had already gone off to the military and she was living with my parents. so when I went back for Christmas not long after we realized how sad she was, we went to one of those adoption drives and adopted a pet for our dog. she is a big yellow lab, and we adopted her a smaller yellow lab that had had a hard life. my girl was so much happier with a friend. it’s hard on pack animals to be alone.
Music makes or break fitness classes for me so I know how you feel! And it does sound like Bella might be a little lonely, especially since she seems like such a friendly pup & loves hanging out with people. Maybe the baby will help cheer her up? š
Totally get another pup! We rescued a lab for our chihuahua and after the initial few days of butt sniffing and growling, they get along great! I think the important thing is to remember that dogs are pack animals and do really well when the “alpha” is made obvious. Alpha has to be the humans, especially due to the fact that there is going to be a new baby in your home!
I despise LA Fitness! With a passion!!! I joined after Crunch Fitness closed in Atlanta. Bad decision. LAF was so hit or miss with the instructors. Also, if group fitness instructors didn’t show up, the front desk people never had a clue there was even a class. They would say to call the regional group fitness coordinator (that does no good at 6 am). Also, I remember taking classes at several locations and the lights in the room wouldn’t turn on. After notifying the front desk they would say the lights in the group fitness rooms were controlled by the corporate office. Grrrrrrrr….. So glad I cancelled my membership. Worst gym experience ever.
PS… Good luck with Bella.
I moved into my first apartment after college with The Rockstar, who was about 3 years old at the time and used to being around a bunch of people and 2 cats. I felt SO BAD for him alone all day in an apartment and debated getting another dog, but the training/socializing just seemed like too much trouble. So, I got a cat. Layli’s sole purpose in life is to entertain the dog. š That worked out perfectly in my case because Rocky can be aggressive toward other dogs and he’s not at all to cats.
I hope Bella adjusts soon! Do you think that getting a new pup, and then having the lil one arrive not long after moving will upset Bella even more? I know it’s so hard to figure out what’s best for our pups when they can’t really “speak” to us! <3 Maybe doggy daycare, like mentioned above, is worth looking into? She'd get socializing time without mommy and daddy having to work their tails off even more!
that’s what we were wondering too- if it would help, or make it worse?
If doggy day care helps, you’d know within a few visits. You can always stop going if it makes it worse! However, you can’t just take a dog back if they don’t work. Just my 2 cents š
My dog would love a friend but it is so much more expensive to have two dogs–yearly boarding and vet bills alone would probably equal out a weekly visit to doggy day care in the budget! We just to be intentional about inviting little friends over for her and going for walks when there are other dogs out in the neighborhood, but I would not hesitate to send her to doggy day care if I felt she needed it. My friend who sent her dog said it made such a difference in her dog’s personality.
i took a killer spin class today, and i loved it, i forgot how much i love spin class
that would be so cool to have a little friend for bella! i think it would be a good idea.
We have two and it’s the best decision we ever made. I’d definitely suggest a boy–they say opposite genders get along better. No one needs two princesses š
As someone who currently has 5 dogs ( two big girls and 3 little “muffins”) I can saw that dogs are VERY social and need a pack. She has had a ton of change lately and a buddy might do her good. Just make certain that you establish some sort of pack order between you and them, and the dogs themselves. Forinstance, we just brought #5 into our family, a 7 year old Pug who was the total alpha as the single dog in her last house. Well she is at the bottom of the pecking order here, and this is something we support. She is fed treats last ( after all the other four get theirs first), she is pet last, and she doesn’t get to sleep where our main muffin sleeps ( on our bed). Instead she sleeps with our 11 year old son, which eliminated any fighting over dominance. Now a lot of it comes down to the dogs personality, but I would say MORE of it comes down to how you guys handle it.
So, a buddy for Bella would be great! Go for an older dog, if possible a little smaller than Bella, and follow pack rules. A really good book to learn pack structure and how to bring an adopted dog into the mix is The Adoptable Dog by John Ross and Barbara McKinney. Not all the info in there will fit for your situation, but there is a wealth of great info too. š
good luck! I look forward to see “buddy” pictures! PS: We have a Bella ( black lab female) and a Buddy ( white poodle male) who LOVE each other!
I was just fixing to recommend a KCS, when I saw the other posts- they say they are extremely loving, calm, smart, and laid-back! I’ve considered getting one for a sissie to my Yorkie who’s a 3lb wild child, hoping that some of that could rub off on her!! š
Dogs can sense things like pregnancy! She may just be having some anxiety about so much change all at once. I’d ride it out a while before you add an additional source of possible stress/change that will be hard to reverse.
that’s a good point.
my fav bottle recently broke…so I have been using the plastic ones too (hate it) and dying to get a new reusable. My others all have wide mouths that spill all over me when I try to workout lol.
A a new friend for Bells…haven’t been in that situation so can’t comment but good luck!
This is a tough situation for sure. We had two cats, Dean and Jefferson that were brothers. Dean passed away about a year ago and Jeffy was pretty mopey for a while. He has really bounced back now though! I bet if you just stick it out, she will get used to the new place, and feel much better. Two dogs and a baby may be a bit much…
We just got a chocolate lab (puppy) to keep our 6 year old Golden company and it has been fantastic. The puppy thankfully housetrained in less than a week and they play together for hours. The only problem is when one of them is gone for whatever reason- the other gets sad. They were inseparable after just a few days š Try a rescue society- sometimes people move or older people can’t handle their pets anymore.
good to know- thank you!
Ugh music realllllly makes an impact on how I view a workout class
I’m going out on a limb here and suggest WAITING on getting any more pets til AFTER baby comes. Even though Bella may seem a little blah from the move and not doing as well as you’d have wished…I think adding another pet, and then adding the Little Beauty in another 4 mos or so..is alot! For Bella, and YOU! I wouldn’t make any deliberate family status changes, i.e. adding another animal, b/c life is going to be crazy for you after the birth and I’d just ride this one out and let things play out first. My .02 only of course and only you and the Pilot know what’s best for your family situation!
Pre-scripted music that they HAVE to play? Wow that would not be fun!
that’s a great point- thank you!
i can always count on you to talk sense into me š
We adopted an older dog and she is AMAZING. š
P.S. Vies says hi and that she thinks Bella would love a new playmate.
<3
I play pandora for all my classes, usually the Nysnc stationn!
I have 3 dogs who were all over the age of 5 when I adopted them and I will never adopt a younger pet again. They are already housebroken, aren’t rambunctious (though still very active), don’t chew, and are just more well behaved than a puppy or younger dog. They have all come from different rescue/adoption situation and are the most well adjusted, well mannered dogs I’ve ever owned. So maybe consider adopting a dog around Bella’s age or a year or two older. Just a thought. Good luck with your decision. I think she’d like to have a family member that speaks “dog” š
No joke, happened to me. My dog was like my kid, until I got preggo, then the dog became depressed. Major. Wouldnt even let me use the bathroom. FYI, Boston terriors are great with kids
i vote that miss bella needs a friend. when we got a buddy for our puppy she perked right up. there’s nothing like having a doggy friend to play with (at least I think so). maybe bella will get 2 new sisters, one of the fur kind and one of the human kind!
My Bernese Mountain Dog absolutely moped around the house for about 9 months after our Golden Retriever died. The Golden was there when we brought the Berner home as a puppy, and basically raised him. He’s still a bit mopey even still and its been about 3 years. He’s just not very sociable with other dogs unfortunately. We’re in a tough situation, but yours sounds better. I would get the dog as soon as your ready so you can adjust to having two dogs before the baby comes.
Ohmygosh I’m just dying to get my first dog! If you do end up getting a dog that is a bit older (and housebroken!) I would love to hear your tips! I’ve never really considered that option before.
Miss Bella def needs a new friend. My hubby and I felt bad having to leave our boxer, Mocha at home all of the time (even though I walked her multiple times a day). So we adopted another boxer who was almost 4 (she’s 7) and it has been the best thing. They run around the house and the yard all day and they wrestle constantly. It’s been great for her and he’s such a goofball he lights up our house.
We have an amazing 10 mo old boxer and can’t wait to adopt an older boxer for him to be buddies with. I <3 boxers. They're the sweetest.
Awwww….. I’m having the same problem with my kitty, she needs a friend!
I think a friend for Bell is a great idea! Dogs by nature are better in packs, or the equivalent of. I think she might like having someone to keep her company during the day. I’d make sure they get along well, though. No need to stress her out more if things don’t go as planned. And I agree: Puppy = bad idea for an already-stressed pooch and a baby on the way and a brand new casa. š
This could solve your problem! These little ones are a good size and many are not puppies and thus might be housebroken, etc…plus there are so many chihuahuas in need of good homes right there in Tucson. I think we are going to get one too! http://w.chihuahua-tucson.com/index.html
Oh my gosh, this could not have come at a better time for me! We have had a two year old Patterdale for 3 months and have been discussing getting another doggy friend for her. She is sweet and wonderful, but hates being left on her own. We have adjusted our schedule so she is only on her own a couple of days a week, and we have a dog walker who comes in and walks her with other dogs on those days, but we think she may be happier with a buddy.
The only advice I have is:
Definitely adopt an older dog! Getting a dog that is already housetrained and knows how to sit is awesome.
Also, I kind of agree with what a few people have said. Maybe it is a bit too much change all at once? Maybe give it 8 months, until she is used to the baby being around, and then see where you are? In the meantime, is there some way you could socialise her with other dogs more? Maybe meet some other dog owners and arrange play dates?
I’m sure dogs go through ups and downs the same as humans do, she will be okay!
Jess
xx
Getting a friend for Bella is a good idea!And adopting an older doggie is even better.That way you help out Bella by giving her a playmate and you’re also giving another dog a chance at a good life.Can’t wait to see what you guys decide!
I’m at Uni and a few weeks ago I got a full time job during the summer break to earn some money for when school starts again. My puppy is used to me being home most of the time and she seemed to get really depressed because she would be at home on her own from about 8 until 5, and I felt really bad for her. Luckily the situation sorted itself out as the job was only temporary. Maybe you’d be better getting some professional advice from a vet before you make any big changes? She might just be adjusting to the move. Either way, I hope she feels better soon! I hate the thought of puppies feeling sad š
Ahhh definitely take her to the vet before you get another puppers! My puppy stared feeling really lethargic about a week before we moved and went from eating 6 cups of food to eating 1! At the new place she would wait at the bottom of the stairs by the door till we came home and we figured it was because he missed my old roommates dog so we got a new puppy (we were thinking about getting another one before so it wasnt spur of the moment) He got worse after we got the new puppy so after he couldnt keep his food down, we took him to the vet. $500 later, they did x-rays to determine that the lining of his stomach and intestines was swollen over triple its normal size and put him on 4 different meds:(:(:(:(:( Thankfully he’s been on them for a few days and is getting better but he’s still not himself yet:/
Anyway sorry for the long story but this hit close to home and i wont want you to be stuck with a baby and two dogs not getting along!
I haven’t been super pleased with my LA Fitness either lately. I feel like I think about canceling my membership on a weekly basis. I hope Bella is alright! I have heard that pets can feel neglected with a new baby since they are so much work but so are new puppies so I think it’s a good idea to look for an older dog. Poor girl!
Adopt a dog for Bella! That’s what I did – best thing I ever did actually š It feels really good knowing you’re giving a dog a home. Espeically when they’re already an adult.
Wish I had some good advice…I know nothing about these situations but just wnated to say how lovely I think it is that you are such attentive parents! Bel’s a lucky girl š
I agree that you might want to wait. I adopted a second dog and although she was supposed to be trained she wasn’t. I am due in Dec and very worried about how we are going to juggle 2 (small) dogs and a new baby. Of course I love the new pup so she isn’t going any where we are just working really hard with her right now and hope she gets it before the baby comes!
The one thing I hate about my gym is the redetermined music. It’s ok for group power because it coordinates with the muscle groups and you get used to the routine, but for spin its just so lame š
When my older gentlemen cat had to be put to sleep my Wiley, one-eyed cat started picking on my persian, who is always less than interested in playing or being bothered so even though I wanted another Persian if I ever got another cat I had to get a kitten for my pirate cat because that’s what he needed. Someone to give him a real run for his money. Now he is the most well behaved cat I never thought he could be. It’s amazing what can happen when you listen to your pets needs and the transformations that can be made because of it.
I hope Bella comes out of her slump soon. It must be breaking your Fur Mom heart!
Also, can’t wait to meet you at HLS!
poor bella! she probably just needs a little more time to get used to all the changes. she can probably sense that something’s going on with you, too!
I don’t have a dog but cats. Initially, I adopted a little kitten from the Humane Society and she was very cute, but it was clear she needed a lot of attention and playtime, and she was sad and lost when I was not home and was really clingy when I came back. So, about 6 weeks later I adopted another kitten and they kept each other great company, playing, running around, cuddling and were both really happy. They still are, but now I have 4 but with each cat I saw they really like company of their own kind. Dogs are even more social (pack) animals.
Bahahaha! Now that stupid blue da de da da song is in my head!
I have been through that and to be honest, getting the second dog was a bad decision. We thought my lab was lonely and needed a friend but he really just wanted all of our attention and didn’t enjoy having to share the love. Also, you are having a baby soon and will have to spread your love even more. My advice just keep giving bella lots and lots of love. Too many changes and a new dog can go either way. I wouldn’t want that stress w/ the baby coming. Just my honest opinion from someone who has been there.
Good morning!
First, I teach at LA and proudly ignore the rule of using only their music. I do agree though with whoever said that the instructors are very hit or miss. My audition there showed them nothing about how I actually teach so I’m not surprised that some stink.
Anyway…
Dog stuff. I hate to be a debbie downer, but in the past few months I’ve seen two friends have babies and then end up giving their dog(s) up for adoption. In one case the girl worked a ton of hours and it was just too much with a baby and in the other case they had two dogs and now a baby and they couldn’t handle it. In both cases it was really tough for them to let go.
I’m not saying don’t get another dog, just think it through. I know plenty of people have dogs and kids it just struck me as worth mentioning since i’ve seen the opposite happen twice now.
I vote yes to a second dog….but it needs to be the right one. Going to a rescue is a great idea. I would suggest looking into a dog that is currently being fostered in a home that has another dog and possibly children. This way, you will already know that they are good with both. See if you can bring the dog home for a trial with Bella to see if it works out. Good luck!!