Reality Check 1: Can I afford this?

My initial attempt to form an alliance with a local organization like Handi-dog has discouraged me. That and my 4 hour attempt to clean out the fish tank alone. I remember that such tasks are easier with two brains. How am I going to raise a dog alone?

Then there are the financial issues. Just took the cats in this week for their vaccinations. One had to be sedated just to get him there. Vets, shots, food, neutering, collars & leashes & fences & crates add up. The latter was obtained for $45 on Craig's List from a substitute teacher who used it for her rabbit. No such deals exist for Vets.

Still, I may have more tricks up my sleeve. A near neighbor works for Handi-dog and may be able to give me the scoop on available discounts and/or donations. As for the "two brain" thing, I can always call a smart dog owner and ask for advice. As for the fish tank, I'll retire it as soon as I'm sure the neon tetras are disease-free enough to contribute to my local niece's tank.

Commitment stage 1: what's in a name

This Lab puppy was identified by Andie, my Flagstaff, AZ based niece and her boyfriend, Kent, to hold great potential to become a Service dog. His portrait was completely compelling.

By 10 pm I settled on his name. I wanted one with two syllables, some distinct consonants and many levels of meaning. Irrationally determined to find a word in Japanese that meant "helper" I settled on Kubi (pronounced "cool bee") meaning both "neck" and "job". His nickname, to distinguish him from his litter mates, was "fat neck," understandable from the 2nd photograph. Raising him well will definitely be a job.