I’m big believer in the saying, “Never say never.” I received a reminder of this fact during a conversation with my husband John last week.
As I was preparing to take our dogs, Elli and Sasha, on their lunchtime walk, John asked, “Aren’t you putting their hoodies on them?” I inwardly groaned.
“They’re fine today, Honey,” I said, “It’s 40 degrees. Their own fur coats are long and they’ll be okay.”
“No … it’s still cold … they need their hoodies. Why don’t you grab them and give them to me, and I’ll put the hoodies on the girls.” I closed my eyes and sighed.
See, I always said I’d never be one of those people who puts T-shirts, hoodies, and other clothing on my dogs … other than coats when the weather becomes dreadfully cold. It’s not like I have anything against people who do this. I mean, come on, how cute do pups look with their human-like attire? I just didn’t ever want to do it … I didn’t want to become that pet owner.
My reasons were twofold:
One, I didn’t want to fuss with putting clothes on and taking them off my pets. I’m busy enough, like many people. Why add this extra step in the day?
Two, I couldn’t pet our dogs all over with them wearing clothes. When a dog wears a T-shirt or other item, your available petting/scratching area is limited. All you can do is pet their head or give them a belly rub. (At least we always still have the latter. Belly rubs are essential for both dogs AND their owners.)
But last fall, John discovered some hoodies on clearance in the pet section of Walmart, and my days of saying “I’ll never put clothing on my dogs” were gone. I had to bite my tongue as he scooped the hoodies up and put them in our shopping cart. John was so excited.
It doesn’t help when people see Elli and Sasha in their attire and they fawn all over our pups.
“Oh, look at how cute your dogs are in their hoodies!” they exclaim. And, of course, John’s often right there beside me, grinning in victory.
John and I have a new question in our marriage which has kept it strong. We ask each other, “Does this make you happy?” Despite my vow to never become that pet owner … I know putting hoodies on the girls makes him happy. We check to make sure they’re not panting or uncomfortable, and so far, Elli and Sasha have been fine.
So, yes, Readers, I’ve caved. When you see me out on my lunchtime walks, Elli and Sasha trotting along wearing their grey and black hoodies, just know that I’m doing my part to keep my marriage solid. You’re welcome, Honey.
Amy Shankland is an empty-nester, writer, and fundraising professional living in Noblesville with her husband John and two dogs. You can reach her via email at amys@greenavenue.info.