About the "kids" I already have...

So ever since I posted about Josie's Great Escape on Sunday, a few people been asking what I'm going to "do" with my dogs once the Sprout arrives.  I'm sorry?  I don't understand the question.  Turns out, these people are subtly (or not so subtly) suggesting I get rid of my dogs or, even worse, make a Sophie's Choice and only get rid of one!  Then this morning, someone actually sent me this article:

http://usnews.nbcnews.com/_news/2012/09/25/14095596-police-pit-bull-fatally-mauls-3-month-old-baby-in-texas?lite

Let's dissect, shall we?  We have a domestic disturbance bad enough for someone to call 911, which would clearly stress out and agitate any person or animal in the house.  Then, while people are OUTSIDE talking to the police, someone leaves a tiny baby UNATTENDED on a regular BED (not in a crib or playpen) with a DOG.  Are we really blaming the animal in this scenario?

After that, I felt like I had to defend my girls.  Yes, I have two big dogs that many would consider more trouble than they are worth.  I am fully aware of each of their behavior issues that can be considered potentially problematic.  But there's no way I can get rid of either of them, ever.  If you're not a dog person, I get that.  Here's how it goes in my house though.

Let's start with Josie.  I was there the day she was born and I've had that little monster since she was 6 weeks old.  She's a rottweiler though, so people automatically bring preconceived notions to the table, and she's had some traumatic encounters so she doesn't trust strangers.  Once you're in her circle though, you'd have trouble to find a more loving, loyal dog.  Not to mention, Jo and I have been together since before Scott and I were, so she has a little more seniority in my book.  She's not going anywhere.

And Belle.  She is big and clumsy and hyper and she jumps.  She won't mean any harm but she could hurt Sprout.  Okay, but please remember that Belle is still a baby and that she's already starting to calm down.  Also, Belle was a gift from me to Scott, and trust me when I say that those two love each other so much that they are each visibly upset when separated.  She stays.

I know it's going to take a lot of work and patience to get everyone to live together harmoniously when Sprout comes.  I'm working on their behavior daily, I am letting them adjust to Sprout accessories in the house gradually, and I have enough common sense to not ever leave my baby unattended with either of my dogs.  So please stop suggesting that I get rid of one or both of them like they are bags of old clothes instead of members of our family.  You're getting nowhere with that and you're pissing me off.