Jax has been our fur baby for about a month and a half and we have all fallen in love with him. When I would hear people talk about how much they loved their dog I would think, Well, it's just a dog. I didn't get it. But now that I am a fur Mama I realize that the excitement a dog shows those he knows and loves when they walk into the house or just into the room is second to none. My kids love me, but they don't run and greet me the way Jax does. That little dog knows how to greet a girl! Not only is there a bond between our family and the new addition, but caring for and even providing for a dog is very fulfilling for me. It seems nurturing is hard wired into my DNA especially when it comes to those I love.
Which is where the 'problem' stems from, I think. The hubby fell first for Jax, and he fell hard. So hard that I found it impossible to tell him anything but to go get the puppy and bring him home. I assumed Jax and his Daddy would be inseparable because of that instant connection. Well, it seems that when you are primary caregiver for a dog you get a lot of love and said dog wants to be around you, or at least know you're near. Primary caregiver in this house would be written under my name if I had a business card. Not that I don't want Jax to love me, but I really want him to adore his Daddy too because I know his Daddy adores him.
The other day I left hubby with Jax to go to the store. He told me, when I returned, that Jax whined and looked around for me while I was gone. That made me sad. Again, I love Jax and want him to love me, but somehow I need to help Daddy and fur baby create that bond for themselves. I have made this my mission.
I wasn't sure where I would start, but knowing that a baby of any kind is keenly aware of who provides for him: feedings, answering his cries, cleaning him, taking time to get to know him. This is where the bond for me with Jax begins - and probably ends. I do play with him and make sure he gets out on walks, but I do far more nurturing than playing. This is where his Daddy needs to step in. I'm going to make a list of things Daddy needs to do for a few days, at least, to make sure Jax knows that Daddy is there for him too. Daddy can't just play with the puppy and expect the same kind of placement in the "pack" as Mommy - based solely on the things I do for Jax. In my mind, Jax probably sees Daddy as one of the kids - based solely on the fact that he primarily plays with Jax. So I'm going to help these two get a more stable relationship - at least where Jax knows and adores his Dad. I sure hope it works!
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