Falling in love again

I admit that when I took Roger in, I wasn’t in love with him.

 

He didn’t fit what I had in mind for a second crew member, and, frankly, I didn’t think he was very attractive.

His eyes were too far apart and slanted, his ears too big, his legs bowed, and then there’s that other thing.

That black spot under his tail.

I don’t know how to explain it gently, so I’ll just spit it out. Roger has the big, black, butt-hole of a Great Dane. On a little, white chihuahua body, if you can picture that.

Maybe I shouldn’t have written that last part.  Oh well.

The point is . . . I wondered, at first, if I’d ever love him as much as my other crew members.

All of the above seems silly now.

Let me tell you some of the things about Roger that won my heart.

Roger is grateful.  

Every single time Roger has something to eat, whether it’s the little plate of chicken chunks for breakfast, a bowl of dry kibble, or a snack of rotisserie chicken, he comes up to me afterward to thank me.

If I’m distracted by something, he will paw me to get my attention, then lean in with his face close to mine, sometimes kissing me.  He does that until I give him a few pats or nuzzles and a “You’re welcome, Rog.”  Then he leaves.

Gosh, it touches my heart when he does that.

Roger has known tough times.  

It’s difficult for me to explain how this is revealed.  To say he has “depth of character” seems a bit far-fetched when describing a dog.  There’s something there — I’ve seen it in dogs I fostered — that dogs who had a secure beginning don’t have.

How do I see it?  I don’t know . . . the distant stare, the kindly reaction and softness in his eyes when I say his name, the deep sigh when he sits on my lap or when he finds the perfect spot for a good night’s rest.

Roger loves Reggie.  

I used to wake up to Reggie jumping on me and scratching my head.  Cute the first few times, but not so much after that.

Since Roger joined us, I wake to the two of them wrestling and rolling around in the covers.  They get along really well. Reggie is bright-eyed happy to have a live-in pal.

There have been a few fights over food or when the play-fights become too intense and real. Afterward Roger always makes sure Reggie knows he holds no hard feelings.

One time I found Roger resting his chin on the neck of a reclining Reggie in a post-fight gesture of “I’ll always be your friend, Reg.”

Roger amuses himself.  

It isn’t essential that a dog entertain himself for me to love him.  Reggie rarely is happy by himself and I love him dearly.

When Reggie and I go inside, often Roger indicates he’d rather stay outside, settle onto the quilt-pallet, and chew his elk antler.

(Remember the piece of elk antler I bought for Reggie?  The dang thing cost eight bucks and Reggie played with it for two seconds and gave it up.  Roger LOVES that thing!)

It’s endearing when I go to the door to check on Rog and there he is on the quilt, belly-down in a sunbeam, chewing away on his elk antler, happy as can be, all by himself.

I love Roger.

The most incredible thing happened!  Roger’s eyes moved closer together and they aren’t slanted anymore, his ears are perfectly proportioned for his face, his legs straightened, and, doggone-it, his hiney hole may be kinda’ large but it is CUTE.

He’s perfect!

rvsue  

NOTE:  (Jumping ahead from this post to real time) The time has come for Roger to kiss his balls goodbye.  He has an appointment for 8:30 a.m. tomorrow (Thursday).  More on that when I get this blog caught up.  — Sue

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137 Responses to Falling in love again

  1. Linda Rose, Muffin, Molly & Midgy says:

    first???

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Whoo-Hoo!! Linda Rose is first today!! 🙂

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      CONGRATULATIONS, LINDA ROSE! 🙂

      Note to Blogorinos:

      It’s around 7:30 in the morning and the crew and I are sitting in the PTV in a parking lot in town. Roger’s appointment isn’t until 8:30 but I got us up and out of the house as soon as the boys woke up in order to break our routine. I didn’t want to look at sad and anxious faces saying FEED ME while waiting for the time to leave .

      They were so adorable this morning, playing in the bed. I hated to break them up!

      It takes me a long time to cross items off my to-do list while full-timing and traveling. The 12 volt power situation hasn’t been resolved yet, so I have to sit in the PTV with the engine and inverter running in order to go online. This is why I haven’t been replying to comments much lately.

      I’m going to write some replies while we wait for Roger’s appointment time. I may not get to them all.

      Roger is so sweet, sitting in the passenger seat, looking out the window, not aware of what lies ahead for him. Reggie is curled up in the doggie bed next to him, dozing off in the warmth of the PTV’s heater.

      Fortunately, Roger does not have to stay overnight at the vet. Reggie and I will go exploring for four hours, then return to the vet’s office. Reggie will have a check-up (There’s nothing wrong, he just needs heartworm medication) and then we will take Roger home.

      I’ve told you so much in this comment that I’ll be repeating myself in a future post!

      Sue

      • Dawn in MI says:

        I hope Roger does ok. It must be frightening to be left at the vet now that he’s found his forever family.

      • Renee from Idaho says:

        Aww, thanks for updating us, Sue. We are in the same time zone, so I will be thinking of all of you on your vet visit. Thank you too for the wonderful posting and your love for Roger. I know how that can be. In January of 2013 we adopted a rat terrier mix, Mica. I liked her and my husband immediately took to her, but I did not love her. Not to mention that she had some guarding issues, not with food or things, but with people. The pound has a return policy, but there was no way I was going to give up and take her back. I felt that she deserved more than that. Fast forward and now I love her. She is grateful and I can tell that too. She patiently waits for me to put her food down. She comes to me and paws me to give her a pat. She snuggles up to me and won’t come to bed unless I’m there. I could go on and on and on, but you get the picture. For this reason, I would not adopt a dog from any place other than a pound, or one in need. There are so many in need with lots of love to give. This post brought tears to my eyes, not for sadness, but happiness for all of you.

        • Chuck says:

          The same has happened to us. After the loss of DoogieBowser, I wasn’t in a hurry to get another dog. We just went down to our local Humane Society “no kill” facility to “look around”. 1st dog we see is a little pug chihuahua mix, patches of hair missing, giving me a look of ” I really will love you”….instant connection. You are right about the harder his forlife has been, the more he’ll
          appreciate his new life. ‘Tater’ is laying next to me on the arm of the recliner…….

      • Linda in NE says:

        I know what you mean about animals who have had a harder time in life being grateful for a loving home. We don’t have dogs, but have always had at least one cat. One had been left behind at a house we moved into, another came from my aunt & uncle’s farm when they moved to town, one was our son’s that he couldn’t keep, others were strays who found us. It seems that when one kitty leaves us for one reason or another, soon another one will apply for the job opening. After our last kitty passed away it was almost two years before another one claimed us, but know we have a sweet little calico who calls us her own.

  2. Robin B (Oregon & Arizona) says:

    second?

  3. Dayton Crummey says:

    Your first description of Roger sounds a bit like me…oh well…

    Enjoy your blog, humor, and ability to stay positive, even on days that bring you too many virtual lemons.

    Dayton

  4. Pat in Rochester says:

    Well now you’ve got me all sniffly! I know what you mean about rescues. I adopted one myself 8 years ago, and started to foster after I bought my house in 2013. But I’ve never experienced a thank you like you have with Roger. I’m in love too.

  5. Kathy N in Michigan says:

    I am so happy for Roger. We have a rescue pup and they do have some endearing qualities that I think come from the early uncertainty. Lucky for you both he was transformed by affection 🙂

  6. Sheila says:

    I fell in love with Roger when you first wrote about him so I’m glad you got there. He makes a great addition to your family. In February I rescued a little guy who is Chihuahua and God knows what else – and he has the floppiest ears that are as soft as velvet. It was love at first sight and I know he’s happy to have a loving home. Thank you taking Roger and giving him a good life!

    • Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

      I agree with Sheila! Ever since the first photo of the homeless dog, my heart belonged to Roger! I knew he belonged to Reggie and Sue! 💜

  7. Linda Rose, Muffin, Molly & Midgy says:

    This is so sweet. I’m so glad you’ve fallen in love again. I hope Roger still loves you after his removal tomorrow. I always thought it was wonderful how Reggie brought him to you. Happy snuggles to all 3 of you from the 4 of us. btw interesting to see the math at the end again.

  8. Robin B (Oregon & Arizona) says:

    Oh, RVSue, I think this is my favorite blog of all ::wiping away a tear::

    I am so glad you have two lovely creatures with you, and while no dogs can ever replace Spike and Bridget, sounds like your family is once again complete.

    I kind of felt that way when I rescued my Blueberry cat (long since departed). I wanted another cat but not a BLACK one, and she was little and skinny to boot. And she had gold eyes not the green I would have preferred. But boy did she worm her way into our hearts. A sweeter cat couldn’t be found and she grew into a sleek and chubby girl and those eyes became incredibly wise and all-knowing. We haven’t gotten another cat as we fear we could never replace our “Berry-Bear.”

    Robin

  9. Deena in Phoenix, AZ says:

    Aw, Sue this is a very sweet story. Roger has truly enter the family heart. Will be thinking of him tomorrow and wondering how Reggie will react to Rog being gone for awhile.

    It is HOT here – 116 as I type these words…Miss Mollie is very happy to stay inside on days like today…Take Care Sue and Family

    Deena and Miss Mollie

  10. Gloria S says:

    👍❤

  11. Ilse in Sequim says:

    I know what you mean about dogs that had a hard life. Max, my Golden boy, was a rescue. I was his third or maybe even fourth owner. I never had an animal look at me with such loving eyes! I’m so happy for the three of you.
    Cheers!

  12. Barb from Hoquiam! says:

    AWE! This is great. I love that he is filling out a bit and not ‘strange eyed’… It is lovely that he thanks you! What a treasure. I am so glad for you all!

    Happy Ball-busting 🙂 (tee hee… no offense meant to any of the guys in the group).
    Best from Hoquiam,
    Barb

  13. Elaine in BC says:

    Ha, so very funny! And sweet too. I love Roger too.

  14. Dawn in Asheville says:

    Aw. I so get it. Funny how it’s not the ones we pick…the ones that pick us, or the universe picks for us. I dunno. Wishing Rog a quick and speedy recovery!!!

  15. Pamelab says:

    Hi, Sue and crew –
    I remember when my grandson said his kindergarten teacher had wrinkles and he was disappointed she wasn’t young and pretty. The next day he said her wrinkles smoothed out. So sweet.
    It’s amazing how Roger came into your life. I’m happy for you all.
    Thank you for your blog, Sue.
    Happy Trails.
    Pamelab in Yellowstone for now.

  16. Stephanie Albany OR says:

    Sue – the sign of a gifted writer to me is someone who can take me from laughter (the a hole comment took me over the edge), to tears and finally to sweet surrender for the story so well told. Thank you for the range of emotions and this swelling of love I feel in my heart for all of you.

    • Pauline in Mississippi says:

      Stephanie….I have always said that my sister RVSue could write about paint drying and have you on the edge of your seat. She has such a talent!! So proud that others see that also.

      • Rochelle in IN says:

        Indeed she does – a VERY talented writer! Count me among the many who just loved this post, partially because we can relate to it. You are a hero to Rog and I’m sure that will hold true even after his vet visit. Wishing the 3 of you many years of happy, love-filled travels and adventures!

  17. suzette in TN says:

    What a great update. We love Reggie too! But now you’ve got me morbidly curious about his…well…chute! LOL! I’m so happy the boys took to one another right away. Sometimes it just doesn’t work out that way. Sounds like he’s carved himself a little home in your heart.

    • Now that I’m rereading this, I see that I got Reggie and Roger mixed up in my typing. I’ve done that a few times already. I’ll bet it happens in real life, too. 🙂

      • rvsueandcrew says:

        It’s easy to mix up those names. What I don’t understand is me calling Reggie “Bridget” a few times after Roger joined us. Strange how the mind works…. or doesn’t.

        • Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

          DoogieBowsers name pops out of my mouth when I am obviously looking at Tater! I know exactly what you mean!

          • H. Park says:

            Years ago I had a wonderful American Pit Bull Terrier that we called “Mooch”. That dog was the love of my life, and when she passed at nearly 11 years of age I thought I would not get through it.

            Many months later I found a lovely Staffordshire Bull Terrier. My sweet Mother-In-Law was visiting at the time, and she noticed that whenever I called the new pup, or talked about her, her name always came out “Mooch”. Even though I had firmly decided to name her something else.

            Finally, my Mother-In-Law said (she was a wise woman!) “Why don’t you just call her “Little Mooch”. And so she remained my sweet “Little Mooch” to the end of her days.

  18. Patricia says:

    I just love it when a woman tells it like it is! It’s so wonderful that you found Reg & Rog and that they found you.

  19. Candace H. says:

    Love is the prism we look through to see how our companions, be they furry or not, really look. 🙂

    • Gail on the Olympic Peninsula says:

      I do so agree, Candace….the outward appearance is secondary to what is the true individual, and what is in their heart….and it sounds like Roger has a lot of love in his sweet heart, and it is so wonderful that he was put in the right place at the right time so his purpose would be completed….he will give to Sue and Reggie more than they have given to him <3 ( and I think he is cute !)

  20. Nidia Szucs says:

    Hooray. Love is an endless circle. Nidia

  21. Judy in East Texas says:

    Sue and crew…..this post brought tears to my eyes. I am so thrilled that Roger has found a loving and caring home with you and the Reg. You are an awesome person with a heart of gold. Thank you for the millionth time for sharing your world with us.

    Stay safe out there my friend, Judy

  22. Dawn in MI says:

    So glad you are all settled in as a happy family. Interesting that Roger thanks you for his meals. Good boy. Will be thinking of him tomorrow.

  23. Cat Lady back home in Baton Rouge says:

    “The time has come for Roger to kiss his balls goodbye…” too funny. Thanks for the unexpected laugh…the best kind. So happy everyone has adjusted well to each other and become one united family unit.

  24. Jan Johnson says:

    That’s what love can do! I’m glad you hung in there with Roger until he morphed through love into a good and beautiful little doggie. Butthole aside, I think he is such a handsome boy!

  25. Awww, what a confession. So happy you came to your senses!! Lol.
    My little Charlie had a very rough life, too, but now that he is safe and secure with us his sweet personality comes shining through, and he does the very same thing little Roger does; Charlie thanks me for every meal, every kindness.
    Bless you Sue for being you and giving those precious pups such a fantastic life.

  26. Willow (AZ) says:

    Sue,
    What a beautiful story, it must be true that love ❤️ is the answer. You have a wonderful family and I wish you all joy and happiness.

  27. Pam says:

    Such a sweet story Sue!!! I thought Roger was cute from the beginning of your great story and the two of them together are adorable!!!
    Soo happy he found a loving home and Reggie has a buddie!
    You are a good Mom❤️❤️❤️
    Love your sharing your adventure!!!!
    Happy Travels to you and your Sweeet Crew!!!
    Pam

  28. I’ve had a few people in my life who took some time to be those I love now 🙂

    You and Reggie have provided Roger with such a loving home. He has to be soooo happy!

  29. Denise - Richmond VA says:

    Hi, Sue,

    It is amazing what love and tender care can do… Roger needed a loving home and family to call his own, and Reggie needed a zoom-zoom buddy. You needed another crew member…. 🙂 I am so happy that the adjustment is going so well! 🙂

    I will be thinking of you all tomorrow. Will you be able to bring Roger home later in the day or will he have to stay overnight? It will be a challenge to keep the boys calm….. Maybe the recovery from the neutering procedure is “easier” than the spay…I have only had female pups.

    The flower pictures of the past few posts have been exquisite! I especially loved the dew (or raindrop) kissed blooms.

    As always, you, Reggie, and Roger are in my thoughts and prayers. Sending you all love and hugs from me and Gracie pup! Have a peaceful evening! 🙂

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Denise,

      I do hope Roger has an easy time of it. As he feels better he’s going to want to play and Reggie will be egging him on. I’ll have to watch them every minute, which I do anyway!

      I can pick up Roger from the vet after four hours and there’s no need for a second visit as the sutures dissolve.

      Thank you, as always, for your kind and loving words, Denise. I hope you and Gracie pup have a wonderful day!

  30. Lisa, Tommie and Buddy in NJ says:

    Sue,
    I love the way you describe your boys. Your detailed observations,…and descriptions, hmmmm, are what makes me feel like I am in each and every adventure with you. I remember early in your blog that you shared why you don’t unhitch the first night at a camp, and relaxing in a new camp the first day, both good advice that I have used whenever possible. I have a tradition of my own, I have a campfire on my last night in a camp. It is a nice way to reflect and relax before leaving a location. Now I don’t do this if I am towing 300 miles daily for multiple days, but you get my drift.

    I hope all continues to go well for you, and for Roger, that everything comes out alright. (lol) Sorrry, I couldn’t resist that one, apologies to my fellow male blogerinos. Maybe the girls should be blogerinas, hmmm.

  31. Jenny J says:

    Best of luck to Rog on his surgery — Hope all goes well—Maybe that little op will settle him down a bit — Happy Travels

  32. Lisa in San Diego says:

    when he first joined the canine crew, I thought, “Roger, you don’t know how lucky you are”

    but now I think he does know

  33. I have to say Roger picked you RVSue and trusted you and Reggie from the beginning after weeks of other folks trying to catch him. This wasn’t a case of you choosing him but rather him choosing you and Reggie. All of our dogs have been rescue dogs except maybe when the kids were little they picked a puppy out of a litter from my sister in law’s dog. Since then we have never ‘picked’ a dog. Our new female corgi mix is so sweet but I sense she misses her owner whoever abandon the puppy. We tried to locate the owner and finally decided to keep her. She had her shots and she was spayed last Thursday. I asked the vet to check her for microchip but she didn’t have one. The vet estimated her age at 8 months and healthy. She appeared to be well fed, potty trained and well behaved. I think she had a male owner because she likes to sleep next to my son’s shoes, slippers, etc. She prefers to sleep in his room and jumps onto his lap. She finally learned her new name and responds when we call her. I hope she is every bit as happy as she was with her other owner….she obviously was attached to her owner. I wish the owner had claimed her but no one came in response to flyers posted. I feel sad and happy for her at the same time.

  34. Eliza in illinois says:

    So wonderful

  35. Kat and Cookie Dog in NYState says:

    All I can say is this post made me SMILE!

  36. AZ Jim (on wheels mostly) in HOT AZ says:

    What a great post Missy. Funny, it reminded me of a discovery I made years ago about people. Whether downright ugly or breathtakingly beautiful, people do the strangest thing in our eyes, they become the opposite if they act the part. I love the life you three are leading and the fun it affords me in following along. I am still not 100%, but considering I was dead for a short time, I’m doin damn good! Keep living the life dear friend! *discreet HUGGGGGG

    • Rover Ronda (WA) says:

      Damn good is damn great to hear! I hope you reach 100% soon.

      I agree with what you’ve observed in people. I was trying to figure out how to say that in a few words. You said it perfectly.

  37. Cat Lady in Tacoma says:

    I’m so happy for you sue, and the crew! I fully believe everything happens for a reason, it’s wonderful Roger found you, and reg :).
    Not trying to get a sale, but you can find those antler chews at marshalls or tjmaxx for about half.
    7

  38. Jo Wishnie says:

    This makes me happy. Roger sure was lucky to find you. I love the gratefulness of homeless shelter dogs ( I now have a few). You just want to love them so much more to make up for what they did not have. I’m pretty sure Reggie loves him too. Hope all goes well with the surgery. Thanks for an awesome post.

  39. ValGal (westernWA) says:

    What a sweet and lovely post. I was wondering what was happening in that department. You never know how a dog can fit in. I’m so glad for all of you that it seems to be working out so well.

    Yeah, those antlers are pricey, but they tend to last longer than any other chews, so I think you get your money’s worth over time.

    I hope Roger’s procedure goes well and he is not in too much discomfort. I also hope he doesn’t get mad at you over it.

    Hope you are having a good night.

  40. Chey (WA coast) says:

    Great post Sue. Rodger will be fine, just no rough housing for a while.
    I took a stray cat in to get spade. They put her under and shaved her for the procedure only to find she had already been fixed. Boy, she came home cross eyed and mad!

    • Dawn in NC says:

      Hi Chey. How are the plans going to get out and travel?

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Oh, dear… I don’t blame that cat for being mad! Haha! And cats have a special kind of anger That Cannot Be Forgotten. 🙂

      Thanks for the compliment on the post. Will you be traveling this summer?

    • Ha ha…the first thing I asked when I took our new dog Izzy to the vet to get shots was to check if she had been spayed and microchipped. We found her wandering around in the park, dirty and matted. After trying to locate the owner a few weeks, she is now ours.

  41. Jo in OR says:

    This post made me happy and joyful. What a great love story. You are a wonderful writer, photographer and most important a fantastic dog Mom. Splurge and buy pain medicine for Rog so he’ll feel better and heal faster. Thanks for sharing your life with us.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      You’re welcome… and thanks for the great compliments, Jo! Yes, I will buy pain medicine. I’ve learned, whenever at a vet appointment, to buy a supply of pain meds, more than needed right away. I like to have the pills on hand for emergency pain situations with the crew.

      • Rover Ronda (WA) says:

        That’s a good idea. I think I’ll start doing that. Thx
        Drugs last MUCH longer than those out dates. They don’t suddenly turn toxic exactly one year after purchase. Even if they did bother to put a real outdate, they just gradually become less effective.

  42. Pam from Wisconsin says:

    I love this post! An all-time favorite, beautiful, let’s us really know the new crew member. Thank you for sharing.

  43. Jackie Dolan says:

    Sue I knew you would be crazy about him. The first time I saw him. He was perfect for Reggie and you. You three found each other. I think that is wonderful.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Jackie,

      I guess I’m more cautious about accepting a new being into my life. I really wasn’t thrilled with Rog in the beginning. Maybe because I had a lot on my mind — repairs and where to travel next… In hindsight it’s obvious to me that Roger was meant for us. Funny how he rejected the people at the RV park for two weeks until Reggie came along!

      Thanks for the nice comment, Jackie.

  44. Anna from NC says:

    Love this so much. Maybe my favorite RVSue post ever!!!!

  45. bob Miler says:

    Sweet story!!!

  46. Pam bohanek says:

    I have been following you for four years. In my opinion this is the BEST story you have written!
    Pam….tennessee

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thank you very much, Pam, for rating this post highly and for riding with me and my crew for four years. Time flies, doesn’t it!

  47. Virginia620 (AL) says:

    💕 this post. So endearing.

  48. Pauline in Mississippi says:

    What a wonderful story!!! You are one of a kind, Dear Sister and I am so proud of you. Roger seems like such a sweet boy and I am so glad he is a part of the crew.
    Love to all 3 of you!!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Thank you, Pauline. Isn’t it wonderful that we are so completely different and yet we understand each other very well…. I’m proud of you, too! How’s the line dancing? Are you leading the water exercise class again?

      I love you, too. Hugs to everyone in the family!

  49. Claudia Meyers says:

    How precious….just a matter of opening your heart. Our past loves tend to scar us in a way. Bless you and your little Crew.

  50. Deadeye, in The Texas Hill Country says:

    Great to hear Roger is loved and is fitting in. I have a question.

    When you go on walks in the forest, do you carry bear spray?

    Don

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Don,

      No, I haven’t carried bear spray in previous years and I haven’t so far this year. We’re moving into camps where there are bears so I’ll start carrying the spray I bought this past year. Thanks for the reminder!

  51. Carol in MT says:

    In Baja Mexico we see many rescue dogs with a demeanor or gratitude. You have described it perfectly.

  52. Mike says:

    Just an aside about the fighting – you can have some input on who is deemed the victor and who will eventually be the alpha – and until they decide on the alpha, there will be fights.

    The one you console FIRST is the loser. The other one is the alpha.

    We used this a couple of times, and it seemed to work. The fights stopped after a while when we consistently consoled the one we preferred NOT be alpha – even if the other one was hurt worse.

    Oh and also don’t try to break them up, you may get bit. 🙂 If they get too gnarly just toss a blanket over them.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Mike,

      Interesting strategy… I do something slightly different. When there is a conflict between two dogs over who is going to be top dog, I stay out of it as much as possible and let the dogs figure it out. This has worked very well in the past and is working well with Roger and Reggie.

      I like that Roger and Reggie seem to be closely aligned in the power department. In other words, although Roger seems to be dominant, Reggie sticks up for himself and is not super submissive. It was that way with Spike and Bridget — neither seemed to be the boss. Quite sweet. The neutering of Roger may change the dynamic somewhat.

      About the possibility of being bit… As vicious-sounding as the two are when fighting, they’re all noise and no bite (so far — I have separated them a few times). Maybe with other dogs it wouldn’t be wise to let them fight it out.

      Thanks, Mike, for sharing what you’ve found works for you and your dogs!

  53. pookie and chuck in Todd Mission, tx says:

    OUCH!
    but he will be a better dog….
    chuck and pookie

  54. Dawn in NC says:

    Hi Sue. LOVED this post. I totally understand about not loving Roger on first sight. It takes some time for a critter to endear themselves to you. I am in the same situation right now. After losing three kitties in one year (old age and cancer), I finally went to the shelter and adopted an eight year cat named Bree. She is the sweetest, and I really like her. However, she is still adjusting to being in one bedroom of my house. I go in and spend time with her. However, she is always in hiding right now. She does come out for petting and loving. I look forward to the day when she is fully integrated into my house hold and her sweet personlity can shine. Right now I like her. I look forward to the day I love her.

  55. Marie Tate says:

    I know exactly what you mean about rescued dogs showing how grateful they are, even for a cuddle. My dog Sparkle, is just the same in her affection for me and all I do for her. I’m so happy that you have come to love Roger just like Reggie does 🙂

  56. Susan says:

    Awe, that is a nice story about falling in Love . Roger is a lucky little guy !

  57. Janet says:

    I love your blog and your traveling companions! What sweet boys! Safe travels.

  58. Kathy (NC) says:

    So very happy for all three of you. I’m sure Roger won’t worry about his ‘loss’ or discomfort once he sees you and Reggie again. You are such a special trio!

  59. Pamela Avery says:

    What a lovely ode to Roger! You and Reggie are lucky to have stumbled across such a perfect companion! And Roger is pretty lucky too!

  60. Cinandjules 🌵 says:

    True from the heart…your feelings and his actions.
    Like humans..it isn’t the outside features but what come from inside. The ugly duckling is actually a beautiful swan.
    Glad Rog is fitting in…..with the crew and your heart.
    As for his procedure…..whooooooeeeee! In due time, it will totally make a difference.

  61. Geri in the FL panhandle! says:

    As you know, I certainly was not in love with Tater when Chuck chose him at the pound! When I asked Chuck why he chose such an ugly dog, Chuck replied, “because he needs us more than any other dog in here!”. Chuck was right! Tater has now become happy, plays keep away with his toys and runs and plays with Radar! Tater loves to cuddle and he thanks us in so many ways every day for bringing him home!
    You know what??? He is now the cutest little thing I have ever seen! I love him so much and I love that I have such a wise and loving husband that saw Taters loving heart!

  62. Cynthia from San Clemente says:

    Wow Sue, this was such a wonderful post on so many levels. A story of taking-a-chance, acceptance, redemption, trust, gratitude, and love all rolled into one. It made me smile, laugh and cry. I was surprised to read the comments and see how many people have rescued dogs they weren’t really crazy about and then came to love. I thought I was the only one. We already had our rescue pit bull when a friend who works in rescue called me to come and see a scared, not-very-pretty little 12 pound terrier mix. She was shy and rolled over in submission and peed all over herself every time I tried to touch her. I cannot tell you why I took her except I was afraid if I didn’t, no one would. She has transformed into an adorable, friendly, joyful dog and I can’t imagine not having her in our lives. God bless you for taking Roger.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Cynthia, and thank you. You are a good-hearted person with a generous spirit to take in a dog that others would reject. I love your statement, “She has transformed into an adorable . . . ”

      God bless you and your crew!

  63. Pam and Maya, still in New York says:

    I loved this post Sue!!! It’s funny I have been thinking of adopting another dog for a companion for Maya. She has developed a serious health issue over the past year, a type of auto-immune disease which attacks her joints. When she turned five she could barely walk. She’s in treatment now and doing much better but she really misses being around other dogs. She can’t go to the dog park because she is on immune suppressing meds. I thought maybe another dog would help her spirits. It’s just trying to find the right one… Your story about Roger just led me to believe that if we were meant to add to the family it will happen at the right time.
    Love to you, Reggie, Roger and all the blogger inks!

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Pam,

      Coincidentally, I met a couple who have a little 3-lb. Yorkie with an immune disease. The dog cannot be allowed to walk on the ground. They keep the dog inside their large motorhome all the time, like some do with a cat. The dog uses a litter box, sits on a lap outside, and gets car rides. Obviously very well loved.

      It sounds like Maya’s disease is not as severe. I wish her good health every day. Whether she has a dog playmate or not, she has what’s most important — YOU!

  64. DDavis, Blue Ridge Mts says:

    HA! I sure enjoyed this post with a smile on my face while reading it. Then a big laugh out loud in the end. Great post! Take Care Sue and Crew, especially Rog…as we know what’s coming for him.

  65. Karen LeMoine says:

    What a loving,touching and magical post! Many thanks for showing what love and compassion for a stray little dog can achieve. I live your posts!

  66. Renee (Datil/North Ranch) says:

    You have such a way with words, Sue. I think, for me, unless there’s some horrible trait we discovered afterwards, once I bring them home — they’re home forever. I can’t wrap my head around people who abandon their dogs, give them up because they get old — or any other ridiculous reason. Makes me so very angry for the poor confused dogs. It does my heart for our two newest additions to play & run & roll around outside now. It sounds like Roger was not quite as cautious as ours about his new home; maybe because ours did have one, although not a great one. Thank goodness for the rescuers.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      I know what you mean, Renee. I used to become frustrated and irritated with people who rejected a dog I fostered without giving the dog a few days or weeks to adjust, even when I explained prior to the adoption that the dog may mark in the house, chew something he/she shouldn’t, etc. until he/she is secure in the home.

  67. LOL!!! That was so funny! Good luck at the vet!

  68. I don’t know about letting dogs fight it out…my friend’s springer spangle lost an eye when her other dog bit her. I let my dogs know I’m the boss and no fighting…although they have never fought. However with the new dog Izzy, an 8 month old pup, the other dogs get annoyed with her playfulness and bite at her. I have to tell our dogs to ‘Be nice’ and tell Izzy ‘No no.’ She’s learning and the other dogs try to be nice until they’ve had enough and snap at her.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, Rita,

      Letting dogs fight it out depends upon the dogs. I’m glad you pointed out that it’s not the right strategy for every pair of dogs. Reggie and Roger are a bonded pair, which makes it work. I’m amazed by the way they play-fight, jump and roll around in a tangle and yet, all the while, they are careful not to hurt each other. The tone changes from playful to serious, but never hurtful.

  69. I totally get the feeling. We got Jay (he was a stray that chased our car and hopped up in when we opened the door)and up to that point had only had 2 ever. 3 seemed like soo much (I now have 6). He was/is such a sweet fellow. He isn’t the prettiest dog ever, but such a good soul and an Angel. He wormed his way into our hearts. He does the appreciation thing like Roger. The other 5 aspire t be him. Jay knows how to give paws and give the other paw. Carl was watching him and thru that, he learned paws too.

    Good Luck with the surgery.

  70. Terri melting in Texas says:

    Great post as always RV Sue. I wonder if Roger will have a cone after the procedure. Ours had to wear one for a few days. That should cut down on the roughhousing! Good luck!

  71. Tesaje says:

    Awwwww. A dog with a good nature is grateful after having a hard time and getting a safe home. He’s a real sweetie.

  72. Susan in Dallas says:

    OK, Bridget had her funniest post about the ar-bor-ee-tum tour and this is your number one laugh out loud story. The truth always sets you free! Hugs and kisses to R & R, the zoom brothers.

  73. Teri Live Oak Fl says:

    Hahaha, you tell a good story. From my perspective seems you all were meant to be together.

  74. Jean in Southaven says:

    How is Roger? It is 4 in the afternoon here as I write. It should be all be over with by now. He seems such a sweet boy, so glad to have him in the story.

  75. Janet says:

    My husband and I have been FT for over 20 years. We always had dogs when we had a wooden home but didn’t think it was right to leave a dog in a MH while we worked. I have followed your blog for quite a few years and enjoyed the loving relationship you had with you dogs and envied you for it. When we retired I decided I was finally going to get a dog but my husband was not real keen on the idea.

    I started to search on the internet as we traveled around the country and had seen this little terrier mix in 29 Palms. She did NOT impress me at all. For 2 months I saw her on the web site while I looked for the perfect dog and when we finally arrived in Yucca Valley to visit family I took my adult granddaughter with me to have a look at the dogs at the shelter in 29 Palms.

    We slowly walked down on side of the building and up the other when I saw this little dog and recognized her from the website. All the other dogs were barking and franticly running around but this little thing just walked up to the gate and put her paw out for me to touch.

    That was back in Dec of last year and Tuki has turned out to be the most loving wonderful dog I have ever had. She can be a devil and an angel at the same time but she travels well and absolutely loves everyone and every dog she meets. She is a very active dog, maybe a little too active for we old folks but she has made us move a lot more than we had and that has been a good thing. Even my husband has admitted that he has grown to love her as much as me. But the point of my story is that it was YOU and your blog and you relationship with your family that got me ready for this big commitment and I just wanted to thank you.

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Janet . . . Your comment is re-posted under the next post. For some reason I don’t know, it went into my spam folder. I want others to see your comment as it may influence someone to take a chance on a dog in a shelter.

  76. Kellee says:

    I loved this post today – made me laugh and cry!

  77. rvsueandcrew says:

    UPDATE ON THE CREW’S VET VISIT:

    Roger’s surgery is done! He’s been vaccinated, microchipped, and heartworm tested. NO heartworms, thank God. I bought a year’s supply of preventative for him and for Reg.

    Pain medication is supposed to be good for 24 hours. He’s also been given an anti-inflammatory.

    Upon returning to camp, Roger ate a bowl of kibble, had a drink, and now he’s asleep on the bed, as is Reggie. Poor Reggie had a stressful day, too, wondering about his best friend and being sad that he wasn’t around.

    Roger weighs 12.2 lbs. and Reggie weighs 9.2 lbs. Details on the vet bill and Roger’s behavior (!) in an upcoming post.

    Thank you for caring about the crew! I’m sorry I didn’t reply to all the comments. I’m going to relax for a while. I did read them all and appreciate every one. It’s fun to read your dog adoption and cat adoption stories.

    I love it when I make people laugh and cry. Does that make me a bad person? Haha!

    Have a pleasant evening and a great weekend!

    Sue

    • Renee from Idaho says:

      Thank you so much, Sue, for updating us. I thought of the three of you all day, checking each hour estimating when Roger was in surgery and you and Reg were out and about spending time till you could get back to pick up Rog. I’m glad all is well. I’m interested in finding out how Rog was with the vet. Poor Reg, waiting all that time. They are together now, so that’s good.

    • Susan Vlastelica says:

      I KNOW Roger is beyond thrilled to have a home, and a kindly human that loves him. I think that boy has seen some tough times in his short life. He is grateful to be loved, fed, and have a great brother.

      Happy the surgery is done. Both my boys were 100% by the next morning. Takes awhile for all that testosterone to get out of their system! LOL

    • Denise - Richmond VA says:

      Thank you for the update, Sue! 🙂

  78. weather says:

    Aw-w, I just love your descriptions of the things about Roger that won your heart.

    From your earliest photos of him to the ones in this post, I’ve seen his look as having a great blend, that manages to be rugged, exotic, adorable and sweet all at the same time. What I see isn’t important though.

    What matters is that you love him,he now seems perfect to you, he loves Reggie,and Reggie is happy. You didn’t mention that Roger loves you, or that Reggie loves Roger, and don’t need to. Their behavior makes that obvious. I’m sighing in contentment for you three as I type this. It’s like finally, the reality of a divinely knit home and family is settling over all of you .

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Good morning, weather!

      “rugged, exotic, adorable and sweet” — Wow! I didn’t see him quite that way (exotic!) but now that you pointed it out, yes, that’s Roger! And he is rugged, especially compared with Reg. I’ve become more aware of Reggie’s slender legs and his tiny head!

      Love the phrase “divinely knit home.” Thank you, weather. I’m borrowing that! —-> I hope you enjoy this day divinely woven for you! 🙂

  79. Jan NH says:

    I’m so happy to hear that Roger found his place in your heart. How precious that he has such an endearing way of thanking you.

    Roger is quite intent on that antler but I have to say it is so odd to see a picture of Reggie sitting calmly beside him without destroying one of his toys.

    I hope all is going well today with Roger’s surgery and that you have a calm
    afternoon/evening once you bring him home (which given the time difference, you probably have by now).

    • rvsueandcrew says:

      Hi, Jan…. Update is above weather’s comment. 🙂

      • Jan NH says:

        Thanks! I saw it after I hit post and the screen refreshed :).

        I’m glad he’s home and hope he is feeling his usual peppy self a little ‘lighter’ this AM. Also that Reggie was able to be less stressful with his buddy being home :).

        Of course now I’m quite curious about Roger’s “behavior”!

  80. Val R. Lakefield Ontario says:

    So happy for Roger….❤️❤️❤️❤️

  81. Elizabeth in WA says:

    Ah, well, with dogs and humans both, seems not a bad thing for like to change to love after some time and experience together. They are cute together and both so photogenic. I hope he does well with the surgery, Sue!

  82. Rover Ronda (WA) says:

    Ah touching post. So glad you’ve found a new love.
    My Murphy came n thanked me for every meal too. I know what you mean about touching my heart. He made it real easy to feed him fish, meat n whole foods. Sadly I’m getting lazy. Now I only occasionally cook up a batch of meat n veg for Peanut n Maggie which lasts all week mixed with kibble. I used to cook up a big batch for Reilly n Murphy about every 3 days rarely added kibble. They were Irish wolfhoundX who lived to be 15 n 16 years, respectively. Pretty old for big dogs. I credit the food n Xbreed. Even tho they were Xbred with other large dogs. I think pure reds are prone to health issues of one kind or other.
    Speaking of health. Love n hugs to Roger. If he needs cheering up, tell him he just significantly reduced his chances of cancer. Glad his surgery went well. Hope he heals fast.

  83. Carolyn in AZ says:

    Love, love, love all you stories. Something is missing from my day when you don’t blog.
    I have a Chihuahua, too and they are just the sweetest dogs. New from the start that Roger was going to join your crew!

  84. Ann Pepon says:

    I know what you mean about rescues. They definitely are appreciative. . So glad you took a chance on Roger, and I know he is too!

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