It all began with a dream
With a careful selection for Momma pup
Then raising her, genetic testing and researching
On went the quest for the right father to match
And there were many days of breeding
Then there was vigilant careful watch as Mom grew with her pups inside
While giving her nothing but the best of care
Then came the day when the pups were ready to come as Mom started to stir
And a long night ahead one by one
As the pups were each carefully and lovingly delivered, identified by collar
Then placed with Mom for her to take over
As she embraced them and cared for her babies
We slept by their side for many weeks
And watched them grow
Caring for them night and day
Every milestone, making sure they were safe, clean, warm, well kept
We got to know each one
By personality, colour, how they ate, how they played and bathed – cuteness at the highest degree
Then came the time
One by one
When their loving forever families came and we passed the torch on –
And I cried, tears of joy for them as they each left
But also tears of sadness; as we would miss them but we were blessed
As we loved them first.
By Alissa Kuhl-Stetson
