So – 18 months to the day….
My furbaby was handed to me off of the happy bus from Romania.
It’s been a roller coaster of a ride for various reasons – some of the pooch challenges we have overcome I really wasn’t expecting to have materialised in the first place! No matter how prepared you think you are before they arrive – it’s always the little unexpected things that show their ugly face and bite you on the arse!
He’s grown up in lots of ways – together we have achieved and grown so much and we have had fun all the time we have been learning. I aim to do new safe fun experiences with him as often as possible without overloading his senses – down time just chilling is always on the cards. An hour wandering around the garden centre recently was fun and he loved the new smells! He was knackered afterwards. Everyday is a school day.
I’ve learnt a lot about people and some aspects of hooman life since I’ve had him – when my days have been dark then he has been the shining light and reason I have got through them. I’m not afraid to admit that. Material things and social status mean sweet diddly squit!
The Marcus and Dad mantra of “TARTUPLE” will always ring true – the other thing I have totally appreciated since he arrived is that you must advocate for your pooch. My standard phrase when people challenge or question why I behave in a certain way or let him do certain things – “my pooch; I know my pooch therefore my rules!”
As some actor once said – with great power comes great responsibility. We as pooch guardians have the power to radically affect (for the better or the worst) our pooches environment and therefore their lives. I for one take that responsibility very seriously. We have a massive responsibility to our pooches to keep them safe and secure. I promised him that I would always look after him and love him. In his own pooch ways – he does the same for me. His happiness and well-being is of higher priority than my own. Seeing him happy makes my day and lifts my soul.
I also (and maybe this is just my DNA) have the mindset that I really don’t give a flying hoot about what people think about me or my pooch. I have a huge amount of respect and time for people who take on street dogs – they often have quirks that need working through that domesticated pooches don’t.
Pooches need their hoomans to stand up and act as proper guardians – without hesitation or fear of repercussions. People accept me and my rules or they go elsewhere.
Perhaps our new mantra should be spelt as “TAARTUPLE” – the additional “A” representing “Advocate”
My pooch, my rules – there is no discussion needed – simples! I don’t and will never suffer fools!
[for the unknowing people – TARTUPLE is time, attitude, respect, trust, understanding, patience, love, and effort] – the key ingredients needed with a rescue pooch.
Two souls – one life!
So endeth our sermon.
A very tired and contented Marcus.
Marcus and dad 