It's our 3rd Doodle-versary (a.k.a. gotcha anniversary)

[Christine & Shelby]

I can hardly believe three years have passed since that life changing day when I picked up my Shelby. I was embarking on a journey I didn't know much about - given I was a first time dog owner and was raising this adorable little 8 week, 9 pound bundle of Doodle myself. I was committed and up to the challenge, but the weeks ahead would prove to be challenging and nerve wracking. I fell in love with my Shelby instantly and wanted to do the absolute best for her... And I was afraid of "screwing up". There were days I was so exhausted, I had mini meltdowns as we figured out our new routine together. It turns out Shelby and I did pretty good.... she is incredibly smart and is a whiz when it comes to her training - our one last problem to conquer is jumping on people when they arrive in our home.

What I didn't know to expect was the incredible bond, love and loyalty my Doodle and I would share. I love coming home and seeing her in the window waiting for me to arrive. Then before I get in the house... She is at the door with her tennis ball and we must play fetch as soon as I set down my purse. We love our walks together... And of course play dates are a hit as well! She is also very intuitive and can tell when I am not feeling well.... (seems to be able to detect a fever) and will just stay by my side until I am feeling better.

Shelby has taught me so much.... She taught me patience, to have fun and not work late every night, that having an immaculate house is overrated and impossible due to doodle paw prints, that hikes off leash together are treasured moments, meeting new people on walks is fun, and that there is always time for fetch. This year has been fantastic and I look forward to many more. I can't imagine my life without Shelby in it!

The one big change I have noticed this year... Is Shelby now enjoys the occasional sleep-in/lazy morning.... Which makes me so happy!

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Time does go by so quickly!  Happy Doodleversary

[Donna K & Quincy]

Happy Gotcha Day to both of you, it is indeed a day to celebrate and be happy that you have each other.

[Ronna, Murphy & Wilson]

Happy Gotcha Day sweet Shelby! What a sweet blog:)

[Sherri, Sophie, Winston, & Kitty]

Awe, happy gotchaversary to you and Shelby!

[Sally]

I love that there are others who feel exactly the same as i do about my duncan! doodle bonds are the most amazing ever. Happy Gotchaversary to you and Shelby!

[Carol and Banjo]

Happy Gotchaversary to you Shelby and Christine!    I feel like we've "grown up" together with our pups!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Happy gotchaversaey, Christine and Shelby.

[Kathy, Atticus, and Kylie]

Happy Anniversary Christine & Shelby! We would love to meet you both at a doodle romp in the spring.

[Bonnie and Kona]

Happy Gotcha Day to both of you! Such a sweet blog.

[Lonnie & Libby Lu]

Shelby what a beautiful story and Happy Gotcha Day!  It brought tears to my eyes and so sweet.  These doggies are so incredible and bring so much love and devotion to a family.