Westfourstreet

I'm The Daddy!

Posted on July 14th 2010 by Richard Bateman

A little over a week ago after a week off in Spain myself and my girl Robyn made a journey down to Sutton to collect our new family member. He has four legs, wears a black coat and will run rings around you if you’re not careful. His name is Ralphie.

Ralphie coming home

Ralphie is a nine week year old Cocker Spaniel puppy. And he’s brilliant. Dogs have been frequent throughout my life. My first dog, as a child, was actually a Springer Spaniel. Rory was fun, completely nuts and kind of lacked any real brain power or intelligence. But he was lovely. Sasha came next when I was approaching my teens. An overweight dog who was loyal and perfect for a household that was packed with teenage children and frantic parents. It was several years later, after I moved out to live on my own that I decided to become a dog owner.

Harley was an Irish Jack cross. The most crazy, fiercely loyal dog I have ever known. As much as he would drive me crazy with his weak bladder and his need to chase after motorbikes, he was an amazing dog. Sadly at the age of seven Harley developed a tumour on his spine and had to be put down. I truly believe that no other animal can develop the same rapport with us humans than that of the K-9 variety.

So a few years went by. In that gap I met the love of my life, got engaged, got a beautiful cottage together and I am now my own boss, doing a job that would be hobby if I were doing something else. There is no better job than being a freelance web designer. Come December however, becoming a husband would give that claim a run for its money.

And so here’s Ralphie. I have never owned a puppy. The dogs I’ve had in the past were bought home as young adults and having a puppy is a whole new ball game. They have huge amounts of energy. They love to chew. They love to eat food, fingers and household furniture. You are on constant alert as to make sure they don’t chew on any wires, decide to take a leak on your new rug and to ensure they don’t climb the stairs whilst you cook the dinner. And yes, he can walk up the stairs already!

We are well prepared however. We have bought a countless number of puppy training books, DVD’s and have spoken to a Cocker Spaniel trainer. Ralphie will attend his first puppy class today and considering he didn’t even flinch when having his first jab, he’ll go into meeting other puppies with his usual confidence and typical enthusiasm. I think I have noticed a strut already.

Owning a dog is a huge responsibility but the rewards of a well trained one will bring years and years of happiness for anyone. It’s been an amazing year and our pooch reflects it perfectly. Full of life, promise and bundles and bundles of excitement.

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