I Swear I'm Nesting! / My Fluff-to-Be - Pictures!

edited October 2008 in Shiba Inu (柴犬)
Hello, all. I've become rather busy and have been gone for a while, but I think it's time for an update on my Shiba status.
I've been approved by the rescue society I've been working with and am now waiting to hear from them regarding visiting one of the dogs they are fostering. The arrival of my fluff baby (whose name will be Tosca - it's a girl!) is drawing near and I'm convinced I'm nesting. My maternal instincts are one step away from non-existent and yet here I am fussing about bedding, and collars, and such.
I want a harness and am trying to find a good one that I like the style of. I found one, but it seemed more fashionable than functional and, at near to $70, was a bit too expensive considering I'm not sure it will survive. The search continues. I'm also on an epic search for a dog bed. If anyone has any ideas, I'm all ears.

Really, though, I just wanted to share my excitement. Sorry for wasting your time, but I just couldn't help myself

Comments

  • edited November -1
    I like the Perrla beds-they are really tough and durable but are pretty nice looking too (inside use and outside). I also use the Costco beds-good for multiple dogs, washable, inexpensive but look pretty nice and seem comfy. Isn't buying dog stuff so fun? I love it!
  • edited November -1
    CONGRATS!!!! I couldn't wait to hear this news from you!

    ruffwear makes beds - i know at least 5 people with them who all love them! I might invest once they are all older so they aren't as tempted to destroy it.

    I use a few beds, i have a crappy little one from a tiny little pet store that has stood the test of time far longer than the more expensive beds.
    This is it:
    image
    From The Pack
    The dogs LOVE IT! They borrow in it constantly.

    I also have two dog beds from Pottery Barn when they were on clearance. They are similar to this:
    http://www.potterybarn.com/products/p10093/index.cfm?pkey=cpet-accessories&cm_src=sch
    I got the large which is far bigger than the shiba needs and it takes up too much room but they use them enthusiastically!

    As far as harnesses, etc, How old is Tosca? Inevitably, the first set you buy will most likely be destroyed, either by chewing or some other disaster. Lupine (lupinepets.com) makes a fairly nice product, fun patterns and the bestest part of all? You can return them no questions asked - even if your dog chews it - and they replace them for free. All you gotta do is pay the shipping to send it back to them and keep the tags/receipt. Thats not half bad! So I use theirs - I have a stronger set for hiking but for walking and general around town sort of things I use Lupine.

    Have fun 'nesting'!!! Can't wait to see your new fluff baby!
  • edited November -1
    I use a Puppia brand on Jazz, but I really like the Ruffwear that Dave has for Joey - that might be next one.
  • edited November -1
    Try www.petedge.com they have some great stuff and it is reasonably priced, plus fast shipping.

  • edited October 2008
    I bring you evidence of my nesting.

    BIG NEWS!
    I met the dog I applied for today. She is too cute for words. As soon as I met her, she walked right over to me a licked my hand. I just wish I were a better photographer. I know I'm supposed to be objective and all, but I really like that dog and she seemed to like me. She has the right temperment for this house and I think we'd be good people for her. I think I found my new fluff baby! This just might be Tosca.
  • edited November -1
    What a little bean! She's a cutie! When will you know if she will be your Tosca?
    Those bowls are hilarious! We just use boring stainless steel...
    Good luck!
  • edited November -1
    Awww, how cute. I hope it all works out!
  • edited November -1
    What an interesting coat. Completely out of standard, but it's really cute. I hope things work out for you.
  • edited November -1
    Almost looks like a shiba/beagle! A Sheagle...
    Very much a cutie.
    Hope everything works out.
  • edited November -1
    She is adorable! And I love the bed and bowls! :)
  • edited November -1
    I've decided to adopt the dog I met yesterday. I'm figuring out an adoption date now. I can't wait to get my fluffy little girl. I'm now looking up dog-friendly carob cupcakes (pupcakes?) to make for her homecoming.

    Anyone got any last-minute Shiba advice/warnings? Is there really "shiba mind control"? :)
  • edited October 2008
    last minute advice? Be patient and understanding - she will need time to adjust and lots of it - probably months of it.. but be sure to set your boundaries and routine right away and get your thinking cap ready - you have to be one step ahead of the shiba at all times!

    You'll do fine. Its a dog, like many others, who just need love and kindness, and the fact that you went to rescue for a furever canine companion shows that you understand that love can come in all sizes, shapes and kinds. Good luck, and if you need anything, post or feel free to email!
    The NYCSR is a really great group, I'm sure they will be more than helpful and supportive in the days following adoption!
  • edited November -1
    Congrats!

    Yes, there is definitely shiba mind control....Jazz does it just for fun when we are at the dog park. Her thing is seeing hom many humans she can force to pet her - she's really good at it.
  • edited November -1
    Last minute advice/warning? Your life will never be the same again!

    BTW LOVE the Shiba mind control, Niko starts to rock while she is doing it.
  • edited November -1
    Congrats! My last minute advice is plan some time for a good long walk with her before bringing her into the house. Entering a new environment can be very stressful for a dog so spending some quality time on a walk with her will allow her to get used to you and your scent before overwhelming her inside the house. Also, its not a bad idea to limit her access to the house. Introduce her to one room at a time over a couple of days. This will help her to understand that its your house, and you are in control.

    And I third the Shiba mind control. Be ready to be outsmarted! :-)
  • edited November -1
    Congratulations! I agree with what everyone else has said. And definitely second the long walk idea. Not only will you bond with her on the walk, it will tire her out and help ease the stress of moving into a new environment.

    Keep us posted and make sure you spam us with a ton of homecoming pictures! :)
  • edited November -1
    I would not give much in the way of treats for the first few days other than her kibbles or a little tidbit for training. When you bring a new dog into the house and start off right away with lots of goodies and then expect them to eat their plain old kibble after the honeymoon is over, you may find they just won't eat because they are waiting for you to cave in and give them the good stuff.
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