Good Dog Cooper

Tonight we dropped Cooper off at his new home. I thought that because it had been such a well planned, talked to death, tried to think of other ways we could make it work kind of idea that it wouldn't be so sad. I didn't think I would cry, but I did. We had such a good dog and we had to give him away... sad.

Cooper was the dog I always wanted. He was a great first dog for me. He is exactly what I thought my first dog would be like ever since I read the book "Barney" when I was a kid. He kept me company while Neil traveled a lot for his last job, comforted me through some rough times, and was always happy to see me. He used to cuddle with my belly when I was pregnant with Tristan. It was nice to have someone that was always on your side. I loved the training school, dog parks, hours spent watching him swim, and cuddling up for a good nap. When the kids came along he was always gentle with them. I never have had a moments concern that he would harm them. Tristan really pushed the limit, too. Ears were pulled, food was stolen, tails were straightened, and still Cooper would not nip. Even though he jumped on visitors, ate Tristan's food, left hair on the carpet, and barked at dogs that went past, he was a good dog. He had a sweet disposition and was willing to put in the time to win over even the least dog lover I know... my mom. I NEVER thought I would see my mom cook eggs for a dog just because he likes them, but there she was cooking for Cooper.

Life just threw us too many curve balls these last few years and it became too difficult to keep him. In all honesty, it wasn't fair to keep him any longer. Living in a space where Neil has to sleep on the couch because we have just plum run out of room, does not leave any room for a dog be a dog. There is no time for long walks or trips to the dog park. Cooper's greatest dislike is being alone and I thought of the years ahead where he would be left alone while we were out and about with the kids. Another dog would probably handle it just fine, but not Cooper.

In his new home there is another dog, Neko, who Cooper gets along so well with. There is a little yard to go out and play everyday and a constant companion that we were not prepared to give him. He will go for runs every morning and hikes in the summer. The best part is that we can visit him whenever we want to. In the future when we have a house with a yard that is pet friendly, we have arranged for us to watch Cooper and his new sister when his new family is traveling. It will be nice to have a visit with an old friend. I just hope Tristan will forgive me!