Now that we are so sadly dogless, people keep asking when we're going to get a puppy. Well, they say "a new puppy" but...aren't all puppies new? Like babies? Always makes me laugh when people say, "How's the new baby?"

Of course, Carmie was our puppy, despite her almost 15 years, and we called her puppy all the time. So, I guess "new puppy" is appropriate.

Here's the scoop - no new puppy. I'm not ready, first of all. I am also concerned about Wabby, our 13 year old cat. She has several more years to go - as cats generally live longer than dogs. I am not keen on bringing a puppy into the house to harass (however harmlessly) my kitty.

Interestingly, Wabby has decided to join the people once again...she comes in the bedroom and sleeps on our bed now. Almost as if she knows we're down one pet.

Here's the other thing...

When we're ready for another dog, I think I'll hop over to Lollypop Farm and adopt an adult dog. I know there are a LOT of dogs out there waiting for a home. When Carmie passed on, some people wrote to me and told me great stories about adopting adult dogs from shelters. Having a pet is a lifetime commitment - to their health and happiness. And, I want to be fully prepared to give that, at the right time.

I don't know what kind of dog we'll get. Maybe we'll get two. (Don't tell Tom I said that!) But, they will be examined properly - even though I know our shelter does that and has very good vets on staff. And, they will be covered by pet health insurance. Naturally, I will choose Purinacare. No, I don't get a discount or anything. But, I trust Purina. I always have. It's one reason I'm comfortable writing this blog and Scratchings and Sniffings, for which I do get compensated, yes.

All of the writing I do for Purina came about because I've been a great fan for many years. Over the last two years I have come to respect this company even more. I know how much attention they give to their products and services, and I support that.

It's about the pets. The cats and dogs. It's about a long and healthy life. It's about happyness, as Will Smith might say. Pet health insurance is a must-have for any new pet that comes into this house.

That's just how it is.