For most of the world, being a mama means that you gave birth to or adopted a child that is your very own. Maybe you used surrogacy or IVF. To be honest, the 2-year boxer/terrier that James and I rescued in October 2020 is my FURst baby and always will be. After we got married, we knew we wanted to adopt a pet. This conversation, I am sure will feel over the top to some, and the thought of comparison may be unsettling. However, this is my life and I see our dog as our SON!

From the moment we saw puppy Kobe’s face online we knew we had to get him. There was something about his eyes that have always stood out to us both. It was almost as if he chose us. I’m sure that everyone can agree that being chosen is a very great feeling. I, myself share this sentiment as I consider my own life journey of adoption.

I remember being so nervous that he wouldn’t like us. It’s not something I have ever thought about since, but it was something that for sure crossed my mind then. Then, I started to worry about him being away from his siblings and the children who were in the foster home, and I felt guilty for taking him away from all of that. I don’t think I have ever told James this.  That is how fostering, and adoption goes. It’s a sad reality to face that our pets have a life before we get them but the thought of saving them from what could have been, is a greater feeling.

I have friends who talk about the instant feeling of worry after having a child. We can relate in our own way.  I definitely worry about Kobe. Once, we paid $1000 in the span of two weeks, for him to just have gas. What are the odds? (We have heard all types of stories from other pet parents, lol) We were so concerned and worried about his safety. To be fair, I have had a traumatic experience with a puppy who passed, and they exhibited similar symptoms. Either way, my baby wasn’t going to not make it because I took a chance. We realized there was a diet issue and corrected it immediately. The point is, I was worried AF! Almost daily, I worry about him dashing out the front door each time we leave it open a little too long, even though he’s trained not to do so. Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Maybe a rabbit or another dog distracts him, then in the blink of an eye, he dashes out into the street. And please don’t get me started on the allergies!

No matter what may come of our parenting journey, there is a sense of fulfillment in knowing that a living being depends on us solely. For now, we will love our fur baby with all our hearts, readying him for a sibling. He’s really great with children, loves to play but is also the best cuddler. We couldn’t be more grateful to have him in our lives and cannot wait to pour all our love into a child one day. We know, when the time comes, he’s going to be a great big brother. Here’s to our first born, Kobe!