My other two darling dachshunds were purchased, though only one from a sketchy puppy store (that was before we knew any better back in the 90s). The other one was purchased directly from a breeder (who only breeds dachshunds) at a discounted rate because we were getting him fixed (a.k.a. he wouldn’t be a show dog).

If you want a pet you should adopt one or if you must buy, buy directly from the breeder at the breeders kennels. There are responsible dog breeders out there who just enjoy a specific breed.

Polly was a funny, little dog, but you are right, she was not good with kids. Since she had no teeth my kids just got gummed a little by her.

Cat, I would have bought a dog if my Husband had let me (and neither of us is evil, we were just uninformed), and did not realize how bad pet stores were until I did some research.

This was about how I treated Polly, like a person. And how even though I loved my dogs, it took me having a child of my own to understand the difference. It is also to let people learn about puppy mills, because I did not know how bad they are, so I assume there are some people out there who don’t either. The reason I put that whole part in there about God is because I was linking to some sites that think animals are equal to people, and I do not agree. I also had linked to that silly post about dogs in heaven.

I am sorry guys, I really did not stop and think for a single second that this would upset you. Say the word and I will take the whole post down.

Gracie was a massive (okay, she was only 20 lbs., but that’s pretty massive compared to my breed of choice) and VERY (strike that) EXTREMELY HYPER and very needy JR Terrier. She was precious, cute and had been abused and neglected. She peed if you bent down near her, because she thought you were going to hit her. She needed a home.

However, Gracie did NOT need my home. I lived in a small house owned by my church (I was a youth minister), and my yard…while big…had an ill-working gate, so Gracie got out nearly every time I let her out in the yard.

Gracie needed a farm. She needed a family with little kids who wanted to actively play with her. She needed lots of space where she could roam and run. I found that for her and said goodbye to a dog I had also dressed up on numerous occasions. At one point her frequent urinary outbursts became such a problem that I actually put her in doggy diapers. She didn’t seem to mind, but I think the Old Navy actual baby clothes with holes cut out for her tail might have been a bit much!

The very same day I handed Gracie over to her new family, I got a new dog…my dream dog. I got a miniature dachshund who had been starved, neglected and abused. His name was Archie, and he was a stud in one of the puppy mills shut down in our fair state. He needed a home…my home. I had two miniature dachshunds of my own while I was growing up (who still live with my parents), and must say that I am a bit of a breedist…also sexist as I only want male dachshunds.

Nevertheless, Archie and I are still happy three years later. Archie craves attention, follows me everywhere I go, eats his food like a vacuum because he isn’t sure he’ll get another meal (when they found him, he was eating dead dog carcasses), and cuddles like no other. He is the sweetest, most loving dog, and reminds me daily of his unconditional love.