How Cheeka came to live with us

How Cheeka came to live with us.

We had been dog less for quite a while which is not normal for us. We both love dogs and enjoy their company very much. We had to find homes for our two large dogs when we were cutting down on expenses so we could make ends meet. We were in debt and were getting deeper in debt every month. After cutting all unnecessary expenses like manicures and pedicures, cable TV, and selling a few of our possessions, we realized that a lot of money was going towards feeding and vet care for our dogs. We were extremely lucky in finding both of them great homes where they are loved and well taken care of. After a while of living with only the absolute necessary, we were really missing having a dog to walk. Then we saw a Chihuahua/Jack Russell mix advertise for $50. We could afford it! And, being a small dog, we could squeeze that expense into our monthly budget. So off we go to see Cheeka.

We get there and the lady takes her out. She's cute but not drop dead gorgeous. She won't let us get near her. She's showing teeth and growling. She does seem to love the lady she's with though who assures us that she is a very sweet and special dog who needs time to adjust to new people. Being desperate, we take her home.

Once away from her former home, she changed and became very submissive with us. She would pee if we picked her up and would cuddle with us with ears back, looking very pitiful. Well that didn't last very long. She soon gained confidence and became very sure of herself to the point of being cocky. With some discipline and a lot socialization, she has become very loving and trusting. 

Cheeka is extremely intelligent and seems to understand the English language very well. She knows when we plan to take her along with us or when she has to stay behind. We can have off leash everywhere and she knows when I ask her to stay beside me as we meet other dogs or people. Her only fault is she is a garbage lover and always checks out around picnic tables or garbage cans to see if there is anything she could eat and that is one of the times she doesn't come back when called. The other time is when she has found some dead carcass to roll in. Yes, she loves to roll in the most awful smelling stuff she can find. Needless to say that she gets many baths. 

She is very special and we love her very, very much and are looking forward to take her along on our adventure!