HOW MUCH IS THAT DOGGIE IN THE WINDOW? – 09.19.2010

It was another great weekend for Orso!  His ears are still standing very nicely, which is an amazing relief to us.  He had no adverse reactions to his vaccines on Friday.  We had our first chewing casualty, my favorite flip-flops – see below.

As part of his “socialization training,” Orso did quite a bit of parading around town with us over the last few days.  He must have met at least 50-60 people over a 2-day period, along with numerous other dogs and puppies.  He sat down by our side throughout several meals and waited patiently as we visited local shops.
 
We like to take him to Coconut Grove with us because it truly is a dog-friendly village.  However, it is still a part of Miami and in true Miami fashion, somehow conversations with strangers always make their way around to money.  Gus and I are very simple people.  We don’t shop or spend money frivolously; most of our money goes to food and our hobbies.  My idea of dressing up is wearing a new pair of sneakers and we’d rather stay home for a great home-cooked feast than go to the latest and greatest new restaurant.  That’s just us.  But in Miami, maybe not all, but many of the residents are very centered on how much money you make, what kind of car you drive, the clothes you wear and how much you paid for anything and everything you own. 

Having said this, it is not surprising that we are often getting the question – “How much did your puppy cost??!!” – a question that the more I hear, the more it seems to offend me.  Let’s be real, I don’t go around asking people what their fertility treatment cost or how much their engagement ring was.  It’s rude!  Why ask me what Orso cost us???!!! 

The most uncomfortable part is giving an answer.  If we tell the truth, the expressions of shock are awkward.  If we choose to tell them that it’s none of their business, it’s awkward.  No matter what direction we go with our response, it gets awkward.  So, what drives people to ask this?  Does everyone who comes home with a new puppy get this question?  Is buying a puppy like buying a new Coach purse or a set of Versace pumps that people are dying check out the price tag???!!! 

C’mon folks!  Let’s get real!  Why don’t you start asking what it costs to feed him or ask for an estimate of how many pounds of poop he produces in one day, not what it cost us to make him a part of our family?!?!?