Koda is from the COVID-19 puppy generation. Like baby boomers and GEN X,Y,Z, there are definitely COVID-19 puppies. Whether it was the actual lockdown experience in Philadelphia or a chain of events during the pandemic that nurtured her purchase, I’m not entirely sure.
During the pandemic, my sister-in-law got a beautiful dog named Maisy. Once we were able to travel (that was scary, even with a mask), we visited them to meet our furry niece. She licked Josepf’s ear (that’s the hubs) and melted our hearts.
When we got home, J started to reminisce about his Labrador Retrievers and how he trained them. The thought of a big dog, their shedding, my allergies, and full-time career didn’t make me feel that warm and fuzz
However, I started to send him cute puppy pics on Instagram thinking it would be a pathetic substitute. Well, no. He told me he felt hurt because he really, really, really, wants a dog. Hmm, would I have to compromise?
At that point, with offices closed, J didn’t have the 1.5-hour times 2 commute. He was home more although we both worked longer hours. So, I thought, well ok, let me see.
The Decision: Do I Get a Generation Covid-19 Puppy?
It seemed like everyone on my row had a Generation Covid-29 puppy. But I am my own person, not a follower of trends. That said, my marriage was calling and I had to answer.
I suggested a very small breed that wouldn’t set off my allergies. That had a gentle and loving DNA. And was smart slash trainable.
J did not believe me, so he insisted I go on the ‘net and make him a list of 10 dogs I would want. I said, ok, and we researched to narrow down potential breeds first. In the end, I found a lot more than 10 possible puppies.
Whittling the list down, we found an Amish breeder in Lancaster, PA.
It was important, J said, to meet the puppy first. So, we did. We drove down and met Koda, then what, 3 pounds? She was tied to the hip with their eldest daughter, which I thought a reflection on loyalty and a loving temperament.
When she trounced over her litter mates, I knew she had a playful and independent side too.
We brought Koda home mid-December 2020. I’ve heard a lot of people say they couldn’t socialize their dog during COVID, but that is not my case.
I bought a sling that I could carry her around in and exposed her to the sounds of sirens, the L, construction. She sniffed other dogs, the air and snow, made friends of all sizes, ages and cultures. Oh, and she went to school.
Life with pup: Us and the Dood
We both find it very grounding and special to have dog kisses during the day. I’ll sometimes ask J if he needs a puppy break to alleviate some stress. He loves it, getting to laugh at various points in his corporate da
Now 16.2 pounds, this rambunctious, adorable, and delicious little doggie sleeps under my desk at my feet. She reminds me there is softness in the midst of trying times and if you find that, you are very lucky.
Are you the dog mom or dad of a Generation Covid-19 Puppy? Follow us @KodaHazWax to keep in touch. We love to #livelocal and are happy to share dog tips or learn new tricks.
