Advice or words of wisdom needed

jmalexan · 04-20-2008, 06:34 PM

Hi everyone… I am currently on the waiting list for Bonnie Wittrock's dec 2008litter and it seems that others on this forum are also waiting. My original plan was to get a puppy about a year ago because I knew my collie, Emma of 10 year, was aging. I thought introducing a puppy earlier rather than latter would lessen the blow of the potential loss of my baby. However I decided that Emma would be happiest with just me and not a hyper little puppy. That’s when I found Bonnie and sent her an initial deposit (that was a little over a year ago).

I just lost Emma about two months ago to a brain tumor

she was seen by specialists at Tufts and they offered to do brain surgery or chemotherapy but I couldn’t put her through that. It was the hardest choice that I’ve ever had to make. Ever. Waiting for a puppy has always been hard but being without Emma now makes waiting seems incredibly, incredibly difficult.

December seems very far away but I suppose I am also considering the possibility of waiting until dec. for a baby girl from Bonnie and then there not being a puppy available. I know that Bonnie does return quite a few deposits. I’m wondering if waiting until Dec is not the right choice for me or if I should just have a back-up plan. My intent was to make the most informed decision possible when choosing a breeder (which I think I did). That is why I am hesitant about changing my mind. Are there other breeders that people on this site would recommend as highly as they have recommended Bonnie? I really like not only her breeding program, but also, all of the wonderful things I have heard about her and her dogs (her dogs are stunning). I want to be as responsible as possible when making this choice because it’s SUCH an important one, but I would be heartbroken if it didn’t work out. I suppose I am already heartbroken though. I’d really appriciate any advice or words of wisdom.
Thank you!
Julia

Reds · 04-20-2008, 06:51 PM

I'm so sorry to hear about Emma. It's never easy to let go of our loved ones.

I don't have any advise for you about waiting, sorry.

They do say that good things come to those who wait.

**lyngr** · 04-20-2008, 07:10 PM

I don't think it's a horrible thing to have a backup plan. While you're waiting research other breeders. Maybe even ask Bonnie herself who she would recommend to you in the event she doesn't have a puppy for you. Explain your concern and I'm sure she'll be able to assist you.

**TracyJo** · 04-20-2008, 07:44 PM

I'm so sorry about Emma - I know how hard it is...
You know, I think I'd call and talk to Bonnie about your concerns. I'm sure she'll understand and maybe even be able to refer you to a breeder that will have a litter before Dec. From everything that I've read here, first and foremost, breeders expect and respect honesty on the part of potential puppy buyers and want to work with us as much as they can...

**Luvbirds59** · 04-20-2008, 07:57 PM

I am truly sorry for your tragic loss. I would LOVE one of Bonnies dogs, great choice of breeders!!! But being in your position....I'm not sure I could wait, so I agree....give her a call. I only waited 10 days to get Petey after I lost 2 beloved dogs 3 months apart....It was the best decision I have ever made for my sanity, he is a blessing to me and my family every single day, there is no way I could have waited to have a new love.

Good luck and again....just so sorry...they just don't live long enough.

Carol & Petey!
ox

**dragonman** · 04-20-2008, 08:06 PM

Julia:
I'm sorry for your loss. I think you are being most thoughtful here and quite realistic. Yes talk to Bonnie. Many of the breeders are in touch with each other in the Northwest and send along "puppy referrals" to each other. Actually I just got a new puppy girl from StarlaineK9 [Elaine Hopper] on February 29th.

While Elaine has all of her puppies placed from her most recent litter, she continues to help those looking for that new dobe for their family. I highly recommend talking with Elaine as well, she is a very honest and sincere person.

Good luck.. I look forward to hearing how things turn out for you.

Tracy.

workingk9s · 04-20-2008, 08:22 PM

Bonnie has a great reputation. I am sure she will be very helpful to talk to. I am very sorry to hear about your girl.

AnneMarie · 04-20-2008, 08:39 PM

I am so sorry to hear about your Emma.I was in your spot just two months ago.I couldnt hold out for a pup so i adopted a rescue.He is wonderful !!! I hope you get your puppy as i am sure your home is much too quiet right now.

**greenkouki** · 04-20-2008, 09:49 PM

So sorry about poor Emma

Have you considered fostering a needy doberman until your puppy is available? You could even adopt a rescue if you want a great companion without waiting a a year or more. Let us know what you decide

Dobeman · 04-20-2008, 10:27 PM

I am so very sorry for your loss. I would definitely speak with Bonnie and see what her ideas are in this situation. If you are planning on eventually having two dogs, there would be nothing wrong with getting one earlier and then another one from Bonnie - if you are ready for this.

Sometimes though it is almost better not to get another dog right away. I have heard people say that they needed time to grieve before they were ready for a new one.