Fence the backyard, put in a doggie door, and go for it. My mother used to go play with my dogs in the afternoon or at least let them out for us while we were at work when we lived in town. Now that we live out in the county and have a fenced backyard with dog door, the girls are MUCH happier and considerably less spastic when I get home in the afternoon, even though they are no longer getting their daily visit and takeout plate from grandma (yes, she would bring them takeout - don't get me started on that one). I think being able to come and go as they please as well as having the neighbors, horses, and various wildlife to watch during the day are more stimulating than just the hour or so my mom would go play with them.

I guess my point is that you have options, and none of them seem to be bad.

ETA: apparently we posted at the same time. Glad to hear you decided to bring home a new friend!

I can't imagine my life without my dog. It is a challenge sometimes but it sounds like you have help so go for it!!

Good for you, Tom. I really believe that you won't regret your decision.

I too can't imagine life without a dog(s). I talk to mine non-stop. My husband is always saying "What" and I answer "I'm talking to so-and-so".

I don't think you will regret your new friend. Anyone that has always had a dog can't be without one. Can you post a picture that we can see?

(As the owner of 5 dogs currently I might be projecting.)

Congrats BQ on the exciting news! How much fun you will have next Xmas with thata bundle to buy for!?

ThomasJ, glad to hear that you are proabably going to get the Beagle. I've always wanted one, just decided on the boxer so i have a big dog to be the man of the house when i'm not home.

I too had dogs almost all of my life, but was still a little unsure before we got this one that it would be ok (responsibility to be home, all that stuff), but I am SO greatful for my dog, words can't do it justice.

Good luck! It's like a Christmas present to yourself.

For those who have asked, here is a picture of the dog I am looking at

Oh, bless her heart. What a cutie and her eyes look so gentle.

I can't see it.......blocked.

She is so cute!!! I think you're making the right decision for yourself and for her. Having your parents nearby for the extra help (and extra loving for the doggie) is great. Good luck!

Get the Beagle!

I submitted my application yesterday and.............................. I was approved! I pick her up Saturday if I can wait that long.

Oh, and I need to come up with a name - a good 2 syllable name - that is easy to call her with. I am leaning towards "Lucy" for a couple of reasons 1.) It is kind of a reference to Snoopy - he kissed Lucy and she freaks out... 2.) I've always wanted to say (in my best Ricky Riccardo voice) "Lucy, I'm home!"

I think Lucy is an excellent name! Best of luck to you, TJ - and should we lay bets on whether or not you can hold out 'til Saturday?

There's a two syllable name for a dog that was used in the movie 'The Jerk' but you probably wouldn't want that one.

I think Lucy's A GREAT name for a beagle

I'm so glad you are getting the dog and Lucy's a great name for her.

I think Lucy is perfect!

Doesn't she already have a name?

My oldest friend used to have a Beagle named Lucy.

She was a stray so they don't really know her name. They give them a "names" for convenience sake.

I liek Lucy. My mom's boss got a pound dog and named her Lucy. Boeing's "pound name" was Goldie. Ick!

We have a Lucy too...a Lhasa Apso. She is very high-spirited and loves to chew. As a result, we like to use the old 'I Love Lucy' phrase....

"Luuuuccy...you got some 'splainin to do!"

That's hilarious!

Wonderful news and congrats. AND don't forget "Lucy, you got some 'splainin' to do!"

yippie! I had lost track of this thread and had bit my tongue util TJ decided what to do...I wanted to say GO GET HER NOW!, but decided not too....yeah for both of you...and I LOVE THE NAME!

What a great Christmas you will have with Lucy! and my bet is the kids will just love her, too. How can you not love a "beeglee" face!

I couldn't see the pic, tho dang IT security event...grrrr.