Gwen

My husband John and I had been married less than a year when we decided it was time to expand our family- with a 4-legged addition that is. It was time to get a dog.

The decision was not something we took lightly. I grew up with a sweet golden retriever named Maverick, but my husband’s family did not have pets. John, being a very practical guy, read books such as How to Raise the Perfect Dog and The Art of Raising a Puppy.  We scoured forums and took online quizzes titled “Which breed is right for you?” and “Are you ready for a dog?” After much research, we decided that a vizsla was the type of dog for us – a medium sized, very energetic, athletic, loving and affectionate dog.

After months of preparation and anticipation, we finally brought tiny Gwen home. Low and behold, raising a puppy was not as simple as depicted in John’s stack of books. At times, I found myself questioning our decision to become fur-parents. Gwen required our constant attention, discipline and care. No more happy hours straight after work- Gwen had to be let out. No more lazy Saturday mornings- Gwen did not understand the concept of sleeping in.  But for all the hard work and frustration, she has brought such joy to our lives and has overall bettered our health.

I have a vivid memory from our first evening home with Gwen.  John and I were sitting with her on the kitchen floor while she explored her new surroundings. He looked at me and said, “How can someone say that dogs don’t increase happiness?” It was true. How can you be unhappy when a wiggly cinnamon-colored puppy is crawling all over your lap? Even with all the challenges of raising of puppy- accidents on the carpet, midnight wake ups, napkin shredding bonanzas- the happiness she brings to our home far outweighs the frustrations. Gwen is loyal, exuberant, and unconditional in her love for us. How can you not smile when, the end of a long day, you are greeted with unbridled enthusiasm and sloppy kisses?

Raising Gwen has strengthened our relationship as husband and wife. Not unlike raising a child, we’ve had to make fur-parenting decisions together. Do we let her sleep in the bed? What kind of collar should we use? What food is best for her? Sure, we’ve argued at times, but caring for Gwen has brought us closer. Plus, you always have something to talk about! Multiple dinner conversations have focused solely around Gwen and her antics.

Studies show that people with dogs are more active and healthier. There is no doubt Gwen has encouraged us to get outside. Vizslas are notoriously athletic high-energy dogs and require significant amounts of exercise.  Most days of the week, we are either heading to the local dog park or running around downtown Columbus. She’s my motivation to get out and exercise after a long day at work when all I want to do is flop down on the couch, exhausted. Even on rainy dark evenings, I lace up my shoes, strap on Gwen’s LED collar, and off we go. Gwen hikes, swims, and has even helped me train for a half marathon. Her personal distance record (PDR for all you runners out there) is 12 miles!

Raising Gwen has been an adventure to say the least. Our lovable loyal girl has brought so much joy and happiness to our lives. It’s been worth every challenge and frustration. So go snuggle up next to your pets tonight. I promise they will make you smile.