In November 2019, we met a puppy, and two days later, she came home. Our lives changed forever and she has become an irreplaceable part of our family. In honor of TWO years of Kaira, here’s my annual post dedicated to her!
In year two, Kaira has mellowed slightly, though she is still very playful and has bursts of energy. She still loves walks and visits to the dog park. She’s gotten many new toys, and squeakers and antlers keep her preoccupied. She is still very food/treat-motivated. She can stay at home by herself without having to be crated, but she loves time with humans. Kaira has some issues with environmental allergies, but otherwise, the vet gave her a near-perfect health review during her annual.
If Kaira were to give you some tips to living a full and exciting life, here are five things she’d tell you:
- Never trust the ceiling fan
- Check the floor for crumbs
- Definitely listen when treats are involved
- Squeak toys often
- Only fetch when necessary
Having a pet isn’t perfect. This pro and con list proved that. But Kaira’s constant companionship and fierce loyalty make life more abundant. I’ve been thinking about what our pup has taught us in her two years of existence and here are some of her lessons.
Get outside and move every day
We started taking a walk every morning when she was about six months old and it’s been a beneficial habit. Regular movement helps with physical and mental health. It can help reduce stress, improve your mood, and improve your focus. Kaira usually whines when it’s time for her walk, so she knows!
Stay curious
While Kaira is timid when it comes to weird or unfamiliar things like the hairdryer, she is also typically curious about things. Sometimes it means ending up with bug bites on her snout, but other times it means finding treats, being close to her humans, or starting to play!
Always be ready to play
She might be falling asleep but if you speak in an excited voice or ask about one of her toys, she is ready to play. She knows how to be spontaneous and knows playing is lots of fun! I’m beginning to realize that life needs more play in it and I’m glad she’s here to remind me of that.
Express your love and joy
Kaira is so loving. She will greet you at the door, she’ll bring you plenty of toys, and she’ll likely give you kisses if your face is nearby. It’s pure joy that doesn’t hold back. Isn’t that a great thing to have more of in life?
I’m so thankful for this pup!
Read these past posts about Kaira:
- Our Pup Kaira – All about her adoption and name
- Pros and Cons of Adopting a Dog