I never intended on having a third Siberian Husky. But, a few years ago, a neighbour posted a sign on the communal mailboxes trying to get rid of one. As tempting as it was, I figured 2 dogs was probably enough and quickly pushed the temptation out of my mind.
Then, one very cold Winter day, I happened to be driving through the streets and saw a puppy tied up on a front porch. I figured it was the Siberian for sale but quickly glanced away before I caved. When I drove by again a few hours later, he was still outside. Still alone. Still tied up. A twelve-week old puppy.
Needless to say, I was infuriated. Yes, Siberians are “winter dogs” but that doesn’t mean you leave a puppy outdoors in a bitter and cold Canadian winter. When I got home, I couldn’t get the puppy out of my mind. Before I knew it, I had my winter boots and jacket on and was knocking on their door.
A few hours later I had him on a leash and was walking him to his new home. The previous owners had him for a whole 4 weeks or so if I remember correctly. I’m sure it was a Christmas present for their kids because “snow dogs” are cool gifts in the winter. Ugh. Other than Kayden (I named him that btw), I left with nothing more. They pretty much shoved me out the door with Kayden on a leash before I could ask any questions though of course, not before I’d handed over cash. They gave me no food he was accustomed to, no favorites toys, no bed. I guess they wanted to take them back too.
Breaking Kayden wasn’t easy. For a puppy, he was extremely aggressive (with humans and other dogs) and simply out of control. So much so, I wondered if I could even rein him in. The possibility of returning him to the original breeder was discussed. But when push came to shove, I couldn’t turn my back on him. From day one, he was always distant. He would sleep far away from the other dogs and me. But eventually, one day, he just changed. Changed into one of the most loving and hilariously cute dogs I know. Now he never leaves my side and when possible, always has to be touching me. Wherever I go, he goes (yes, including the bathroom). He’s my shadow. My baby.
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