A little bundle of fluffy joy coming my way.

Hello friends. Guess what? I am so excited to say that I am going to be getting a puppy in the next few months! I am thrilled. This little pup has a lot demands that it already has to meet! I am looking for the perfect dog for me. I am hoping that you all will share your experience with pets. Especially those of you, who are sick and caring for pets.

The dog must be female. That is basically the only restriction that my Mom has put on me.

My first choice is King Charles Spaniel. In the reading that I have been doing it continually says that they are companion dogs-which is a must for me! But these beautiful dogs are also notorious for shedding. I really cannot bring one of these into my home and ask that my Mom try and clean up after a dog that is constantly shedding. I just don't think that would be very fair. They are beautiful dogs, though. But they are prone to some serious health problems though. (Actually those heath problems are related to Dyautonomia! How strange!)

My second choice is a Maltese. They do not shed. They are supposed to be sweet-natured dogs. What I don't know is if they are considered companion dogs? I really want a dog who is perfectly content laying in bed with me, while I am resting, watching tv, or online. That is very important.

I have not ruled out getting a dog from a rescue shelter or the humane society. It doesn't have to be a purebred. I would prefer a puppy, though. And the dog does have to be small in size because that would make it easier to take care of. My family as made it very clear-this will be my dog! Now, they will help me when I am really sick but it will be mine to take care of. I am prepared to housebreak the dog. I know it won't be fun but it is so worth the effort.

I guess, I am a little worried because Sohpie is such a smart dog. We never taught her beyond the basics but she taught herself some pretty neat things! ha! She was easy to train and such a fun puppy (from what I can remember, that was 11 years ago!)

This isn't something that I am rushing into and it isn't something that will be waiting for me on Christmas morning. I am trying to become prepared, find the breed that is right for me and then look for a reputable breeder-which opens a whole new can of worms! I don't want to purchase from a puppy mill but I think even the most well-intentioned people can fall into that trap, while trying to find a honest breeders with healthy dogs.

Oh, anyway. I am very excited! I wanted to share my good news! As I said, I am open to all

advice, opinions, stories, etc,. It is all welcome!

Merry Christmas!