A Dangerous Morning

I fell in love

I read in yesterday's paper about a puppy and kitten show to be held today and tomorrow.  It's been ages since I have been out and about chronicling Carcassonne events with my camera, so I decided that it and I would attend. Market and chores could wait today.  I have been entertaining thoughts of a pet for some time now, and wondered if I could perhaps find a little toy poodle?  

Tibetan Spaniel puppies

A very ancient breed

I don't think I really want a puppy or a kitten--I told the man in the tabac this morning that I am too agee to have a baby dog or cat.  It's not necessarily the expense of a pet--it's the time investment that scares me. But,  I figured it couldn't hurt to look, right?

Cairn Terrier

Oh my heart!!! I lost it at least three times this morning.  I was greeted by some Tibetan Spaniel puppies--and they were so calm.  The lady breeder told me that they are very "zen." and I replied, "Like the monks."   In the crate right next to it was a little white Bichon Frisee....be still my heart.  Bu that breed requires regular grooming to look its best.

A boy surrounded by his puppies

There were little chihuahuas and mastiff puppies as well.  Not too many ShiTsu's,  and how I fell in love with a Cairn Terrier.  He was full of energy and personality.  King Charles Cavalier Spaniels melted my heart as well, and I understand that they are wonderful pets.  

A little bisou

Chihuahua puppies play together.  Could we take them ALL?

And then---I came to the kittens.  Oh my heart, my heart.  There was a basket of kittens marked like little leopard/tigers.  Their mom was being put into a harness, for a walk perhaps, and was as docile as could be.  I loved the way the breed was marked.  There were long-haired cats, which I am not sure I want because I really don't want the shedding issue that comes with them.  

Mama Bengal gets harnessed up

And her kittens take a little rest

Unusual markings

All of the animals I saw were in beautiful shape and well cared for.  There was a vet on-site going from booth to booth, examining the animals, not only checking the papers for necessary vaccinations, but checking the animals as well.  Plenty of the puppies were snoozing, or playing with one another, and some were curious about all the people, especially the children (and children at heart) who'd come to say hello.  I saw at least one adoption.  What I did not see/hear were animals barking or crying in distress.  Everybody seemed content.  

The vet checks up on things

Mama

And puppies

A new family

I didn't go so far as to ask about pricing.  I am sure these animals are not inexpensive, because I saw signs all over the place advertising payment plans.  The advantages of getting a dog from one of these breeders is that you know what you are getting.  The downside is the guilt that comes from knowing that there are countless dogs facing euthanasia if nobody comes forward to give them a home.  I did take several cards--what might be the best thing is to see if any of the breeders has an older animal they would be willing to part with.  It can't hurt to ask.  And I have to do some real self examining to see if I am indeed ready for so big a commitment.