Getting Real with Kira Hazledine

I’m not a dog person. Gasp, the horror, I must be a serial killer. I know. I’m just not a fan, especially when I’m also raising small children. There is enough poop and puke in my life that I really don’t need nonhuman sources of it. I have plenty of nighttime wake-ups to keep me busy, and I don’t need a dog asking to go for a walk when I’m already juggling snack time and toddler meltdowns.

And I’ll be real with you, it’s not that I don’t like dogs. All inconveniences aside, I’m sure people love them and enjoy them with all the benefits of a snuggly and loyal pup. Unfortunately, there are no benefits to me. I have nothing against dogs, I just don’t want to pet them. I have no interest in dog kisses or snuggles. I’m not interested in playing fetch or going for runs together. I’m super awkward, and even if I attempt to pet a dog, it’s not the petting they dream of. You, man’s best friend, are simply another chore on my list.

Regardless, I’ll end up with a dog anyway.

Sigh.

The reason? My kids.

My husband can’t wait until the day I finally agree to having a dog. We simply aren’t settled enough in our lives to take on yet another responsibility, but he talks about it all the time. What dog he wants, all the games they’ll play, everything the kids will be able to do with their dog as they grow up…

It all sounds so hallmark channel and cute, and I’m going to hate every second of it.

Except for when my children are delighted at the animal. My daughter craves dogs. We cross streets and parks and playgrounds to get to dogs. From a very young age I’ve had to teach her how to approach strangers and ask if she can pet their dog. Most are incredibly polite and thrilled to talk about their beloved pet.

It’s not a world I’m a part of, and I suppose that’s ok. The dog will not be sleeping in my bed, I can tell you that much, but I’m crossing my fingers that the animal will grow on me. Maybe the right dog will melt my frozen heart. Even if it does, I’ve already made it clear I’m not on pooper scooper duty. I’ve cleaned up plenty of human poop, thanks.

If you’ve got any advice to loving an animal you’ve never wanted, feel free to shoot it my way. I’ll need all the help I can get.