"I don't know why you felt like you had to drag Jack along for this."
My husband has uttered those words many, many times. Family photos, Saturday morning trips to the farmers' market, short jaunts to the grocery store, weekend getaways to the mountains...I always want "my first born baby" to come along for the ride.
Jack is a miniature schnauzer--a breed well known for their loyalty and devotion to their families. In fact, the Encyclopedia of Dog Breeds (2011) states: "The Miniature Schnauzer is intelligent, devoted, and serious about being a member of the family--he needs to be included in everything that goes on." And, as Jack's mom, I'm usually more than willing to comply with his instinctive needs.
He dresses up for Halloween.
He loves to go hiking.
He's always included in family photo shoots.
He loves hunting for Easter eggs.
He always gets special birthday-boy treatment.
I even attempted to include him on our bike rides (this didn't work out so well).
Obviously, I enjoy having Jack around. And although his presence can, at times, cause more stress than I'd like, I'd still rather have him with us than sitting at home by himself. So, in spite of my husband's feelings on the issue, Jack comes with us. Just about everywhere we go. And he loves it.
How could you say no to this face, anyway?
How close are you with your pets? Do they tag along everywhere you go, or are they better suited for staying home?