Hi, I’m Amanda! Read my introduction to learn more about me and Blue, my fluffy fire point Himalayan-Persian cat.
A few weekends ago, we were asked to babysit one of our best friends’ fur babies while they went on vacation. Naturally, we knew bringing in a puppy would rock the boat a bit with Blue and our Chi, Subi, but thought it was good for them to spend a few consistent days with Rue as summer is fast approaching. Since we like to host, our house will soon be filled with other littles, both human and furry. A practice run for our pets to become more comfortable in the presence of others.
Rue is an eight-month-old dachshund whose energy and voice are massive contributors to her personality. Both adorable features were welcomed with open arms from our tiny humans but Blue was a little more apprehensive to accept Rue in all of her puppy-ness glory.
Rue the puppy with a stick
Safety & Comfort Were First Priority
Our home is a four-level split so to keep all pets safe and comfortable as they got used to one another, gates were set up at each set of stairs. Blue, appreciative of our barricades, took the opportunity to claim our two bottom levels since her cat tree, sleeping pod, and litter areas were already set up. We also supplied her with her own water bowl and food area to ensure she could fuel up peacefully.
Being as social as she is, we knew the separation would eventually warm her up to the idea of meeting Rue. Occasionally, Blue would come to the gates and ask to be let up only to be met by Rue barking on the other side, which caused her to recluse. This continued for the first two days. Blue being out of sight the majority of the time likely made her more of a mystery to Rue so the more she came around, the less curious the pup seemed to be. Slowly, they were able to be cordial and exist on the same level without excessive barking or cautionary hissing.
Two of the five days we puppy-sat were working days, hours usually reserved for Blue and I. Aside from a few outings, she is a dependable companion who seems to be at her happiest when we’re side-by-side. Rue found me to be an easy substitute for her mama and pa since I was the most accessible to her during her stay. Wherever I went, Rue immediately followed. Blue, who usually meanders over to me in her own time, was always two (or twenty) steps behind, and missing out on the best spot in the house – my lap.
My desk didn’t seem to be a viable option while I balanced the needs of the two. On the second work day, I took to the couch so my lap could be utilized by both. While the cuddle session didn’t happen instantly, eventually both mustered up the courage to snuggle in and we worked the rest of the day, a new unsuspecting trio.
Blue and Rue helping me work on the couch
So, Are They Friends Yet?
Despite a few bumps in the journey, I am happy to report that we only had one incident. A few POW-POWs from Blue when Rue got too close. In preparation for her arrival, we trimmed Blue’s nails so no physical damage was done and now Rue had an understanding of Blue’s boundaries.
My recommendation if you’re looking to host a pet for a friend is to provide each animal with their own space and allow them to introduce themselves when they’re ready. The more you try to force a relationship, the longer it will take them to accept one another.
Even though both avoided crossing a direct path or making eye contact, a ton of progress has been made in the five days they spent together. Acquaintances for now but we’ll see what the future holds!
