Cerb

Mister sir needs his own introductory post. He has a bunch of names and nicknames. The shelter called him Cerby, short for Cerberus, which he is very responsive to. I want to call him Sirloin, so now it has become Cerbloin. He's also just baby. The vet called him Celery. So in conclusion, he has no name because he has all the names. But mostly Cerby.

I went straight to the shelter after I lost Whiskey. Actually, I got a hug from my dad and a kiss from Stella and then I went to the shelter. One of those statements should be more surprising than the other. I thought I would last one single day without a dog. I was looking at senior dogs available for weeks before the appointment. I’ve always had a heart for the misunderstood dogs, the ones who might be a little picky or older. The ones that get skipped over the most at the shelter. 

Whiskey was that. She had a bite history, and needed to be the only dog in the home. And yet, she had the most beautiful golden years by my side.

I continued going to the shelter every day. My roommate was the voice of reason throughout this whole process with me. She helped remind me to not bite off more than I could chew and sat with me so gently and kindly in the moments of grief. Together, we compiled a list of traits and qualities our ideal pup would have. Just like with Whiskey, I sent it to the matchmakers at the shelter, and on the tenth day, introduced me to the man himself. 

The shelter has a program to help adopt senior pups, which helped match me with Cerby. The volunteer in charge of the program is a little old lady with short hair and blue eyeliner. It was quite the glimpse into my future. He was leaning against me the moment he met me, he was very sweet and gentle.

Cerby is a 7 year old cuddle bug, who was owner surrendered after his previous family lost their home. He had a younger sister named Hooch, who was his kennel mate at the shelter and lived with 3 cats as well. He is QUITE the socialite. It has been obvious from the start that he was so well loved. He’s very smart and eager to please. He’s really good at sit and stand, but hasn’t quite figured out lay down or shake yet. His favorite trick is to give hugs, and he’s really good at it. He has little interest in toys, and puzzles confuse him if they’re too hard. He’s lucky he’s pretty.

This was taken moments after bringing him home

He's got quite a bit of Whiskey in him. His favorite part of the day is when I open my eyes and say good morning to him. He makes a fantastic little spoon and snores so hard the ground shakes. He seems more cat than dog most days. He just ate the top piece of bread off my sandwich like that one time Whiskey snatched bread out of someone's hand at bisexual cowboy soup night. So many moments feel like such an honor to her memory.

He has been such a blast to have around. He’s a great improv partner, he’s very animated and goofy. He keeps me moving (more than I would like sometimes), but has been such a good hiking buddy. He is quite the velcro dog and is very local and affectionate. He LOVES making both human and furry friends, but can be a little too intimidating to other dogs due to his mean bark.

It’s also been really difficult. He is exhibiting some major separation anxiety, and I don’t blame him. I think he is scared to be alone, especially because he had so many siblings in his last home. I know plenty of adults who never figured out how to be alone or sit in silence, and they’ve been alive many more years. Getting another pet is not an option I’m willing to explore right now and doggy daycare does not work with my schedule. I have tried all the advice: more exercise, mental stimulation, etc etc. Some days are better than others, but this adjustment is taking some time.

The bed exploded and it really scared him. He's innocent, officerb.

As much as I hate to admit it, the amount that he forces me to walk has been really helpful towards my mental health. I have been absolutely flying through audiobooks and have been enjoying hiking the trails near my home. He is phenomenal at keeping me accountable, and also provides the most comforting cuddles.

Here's to new adventures and new friends!

Ken and Sir