Leah McCann Smith | Writer & Editor

About a month ago, Brian and I finally did what we’d been talking about for years. We got a dog (!!!)

This girl’s name is Zoey, (zōē), which is Greek for “life.” And full of life she certainly is. Look at that face!

A few things about Zoey: She’s sweet, sometimes; energetic, sometimes; and reserved, sometimes. That’s the thing I’ve learned about dogs—you can never predict exactly how they’re going to be on any given day.

My dad, a semi-retired veterinarian, seems to think she’s about seven months old. She’s definitely a mix, but we’re not sure what else. Maybe we’ll look into one of those DNA tests or something.

Some things I’ve learned in the first month of dog ownership:

• If you’ve never had a dog, you won’t know what you’re doing 50% (or more) of the time. Find yourself a friend who has some experience raising a dog. Buy them a cup of coffee in exchange for all the knowledge you can get out of them. Repeat with as many dog owners as you know.
• It’s expensive but worth it. Take the adoption fees, apartment deposit, food, crate, pet bed, toys, and treats—not to mention all the vet bills, of which Brian and I hit the jackpot because my dad cares for our dog mostly for free—and you’re already looking at one, or more, full paycheck(s). And that’s just in the upfront. Do your research and ensure you’re financially ready before bringing home your own dog.
• It’s very hard to work full-time and own a puppy. Leaving her at the apartment during the day is the hardest thing Brian and I find about it all. Crate training is hard. DOG TRAINING is hard. I just keep telling myself, “Patience, Leah. Patience.” Then I pour myself a big ol’ glass of wine.
• No dog is perfect. Except for Zoey. But owning a dog is 100% worth it. It takes calmness, a financial commitment, and a big, big lifestyle change. But the companionship that comes with it cannot be explained until you’ve got your own furry companion to curl up and snuggle with on the floor because she doesn’t really like the couch or the bed but maybe that’s because we haven’t let her up on the couch or bed yet so, to be determined.

I’d like to use this opportunity to say goodbye (and RIP) to two sweet dogs I knew in my lifetime that have moved on from this earth and into puppy heaven. Beau, you were such a kind and loving and sweet dachshund. You will be missed so much, little pup. Rosaline (Roz, for short), you were the most energetic, wholesome French Bulldog I’ve ever met. My memories with you span 10 years, and that’s no small lifetime for a dog as well-loved as you.