Thanks for the replies. Lola has been through a few owners in her short life. The most recent have had her for a month. She got along well with their small child until, apparently, they had some sort of run-in while playing and Lola scratched the child's face. The parents are sad to part with the dog, but they're worried about their child's safety. They posted a classified and I came across it shortly after deciding to look for a new dog. My wirehaired Dachshund mix escaped past my landlord a few weeks ago and has not come back. Although I have DEFINITELY not given up hope that I will find him, and I'm still actively searching, I decided that I couldn't go on without a dog in my life. If and (hopefully) when I get Jasper back, I think he will be pleased to find a new playmate at home. My ex has a rat terrier and I have always wanted one since having the opportunity to interact with that funny little dog. When I saw Lola's ad, I knew I had to answer!
It will be interesting integrating her into my household. I have Jasper (I hope) and I also have a cat. She's four and doesn't take any attitude from dogs, so that helps. But I rent a room in a boarding house and another tenant has four dogs (all older -- ranging from four to geriatric -- and all much larger than Lola) and FIVE cats. At first, Lola will be confined to my end of the house and will only have to deal with my cat. She will get alone time (with me, but no other animals) in the fenced yard. Eventually, though, she will have a host of new faces to meet. Any tips on helping her adjust would be appreciated. I want to reduce her stress level as much as possible during all these changes. |