Sunday, August 26, 2007

Meet Tanner

After a month of discussions and searching, we went over to the local SPCA to see what sorts of small dogs might be available for adoption. It didn't take Kris (or me for that matter) long to fall in love with an adorable little Chihuahua/terrier mix named Tanner.

What a perfect name for the little guy. Tan nose. Tan coat. Tan eyes. The coat sealed the deal since it was the same color as Krista's red hair.




Tanner had been at the SPCA for about a month. We were really surprised to learn that no one had adopted him sooner since he is a totally engaging little guy. The Los Banos, CA pound had called the SPCA in Modesto to ask if they would be willing to take Tanner in. He was about to be euthanized and the pound folks in Los Banos didn't want to do it. He was sweet, young, healthy, and very adoptable. SPCA stepped up and Tanner dodged a major bullet.



Tanner is about 12 lbs, loves to play with his ball and his chew toy. He doesn't bark hardly at all. We've actually only heard him once so far. He is semi-housebroken. Training him to use the pet door to use the backyard is our major activity.
Our cat, Gus, let Tanner know right off the bat who was boss. Tanner is showing the proper respect and Gus is now showing interest in Tanner. They are actually about the same size so it's a good mix.
Tanner is a bit jumpy and startles easily but we think that with time that quirk will disappear. He doesn't like voluntarily getting into cars so we have to lift him in for the time being. But once he is in the car he's great. Nose to the window, he collects fans at all the stoplights. We picked up a car seat for him yesterday at Pet Extreme and Tanner loves his special place. The seat fits over the back of the front or back seats and there is a clip to secure Tanner's collar to he can't jump around. It's roomy and comfy, rides high off the seat and Tanner can look out and see his world.
Welcome to our house little guy.

21 comments:

Lisa Oceandreamer Swifka said...

Look at Kris's beautiful and radiant face as she holds her new baby. Lucky, lucky Tanner to have been saved and now have a loving home. I will be curious in time how Gus and Tanner begin to interact.
We've talked about getting a dog but I think Daisy would go under the bed and not come out.
Congratulations on the new member of the family!
XOXO

Julie said...

Oh, my, I fell in love with him right away. I have been making noises about getting a LITTLE dog - like a long-haired dachsund or Yorkie, and trading in the other two. Ha, Dan won't hear of it!

That doggie car seat is a cute idea. I had never heard of them.

Julie

Julie said...

What a little sweetheart :) I'm sure he'll be right at home after a short adjustment period.

Kim said...

Aww... Tanner is gorgeous. It's as though he was just waiting for you. Love synchronicity!

Alice Regan said...

What a face! Welcome home TANNER! Isn't it great when things just seem to fall into place? Gotta luv it! I love Tanner's story too, your union was just meant to be!

Lea said...

Tanner is beautiful!!! I think he was not adopted because he was waiting for all of you!!!!

He and cat will adjust. Our cat had such a fit when we brought our puppy home 12 years ago. She was so angry with us and walked around with saucer eyes and permanent hair lift for months!!! I have pictures of them in later years curled up together sleeping on the bed...

trailbee said...

We do so love our dogs and cats. Tanner is a lucky dog!

Jacob said...

Lucky dog!

And sooooo cute.

Rethabile said...

Yeah, lucky dog. Beautiful little guy.

Miss Robyn said...

oh AnnieElf - I think he is cute - a real TannerElf dawgie xoxo
I love that you saved him - I think a Tanner Haiku is in order, don't you? Not by me of course, you have read my attempts!

Anonymous said...

Annie,
When you said, in your email, that there was a new addition to your family....I got a little nervous. lol
He is so cute. I get all my dogs at the pound...Tanner will be a wonderful companion and give you unconditional love.
Jane W.

Anonymous said...

Hurray!! Congratulations for Kris on her new pet mommy status! Tanner's story nearly brings tears to my eyes, that is so fantastic for this little guy! I remember telling Kris, when she called me about this idea, to strongly consider adoption as she would be saving a life. I'm so pleased! Love the doggie seat!
*Big Hugs to you all*

Beth said...

OH Annie,,he is precious!!! I got a lump in my throat when I saw him and realized what lucky little fellow he is to get be a part of such a great family. And I think no one took him before because he was waiting on Kris and you to come get him.
Tell him he has a girlfriend in Tennessee name Lady, she's a rat terrier, and she says to tell him "woof woof" (hi in Doggy Language).
I am so happy for all of you!

Mary Timme said...

What a cute little dog with a big awwwwwwhhhh! factor! He looks like a hand full and I'm glad Gus stepped right up for who is bossing whom. What fun! Welcome Tanner!

vicci said...

Welcome to that little bundle of pure joy! Tanner! It does fit him to a tea! I know all of you will love him so much....and him you.....he has a wonderful expressive face...and I am happy you saved his life...I think they know that...and they will never forget it....XXXXOOOOOOO

TMTW said...

Oh Annie! Perfect little guy!

Congratulations on your new baby! He's absolutely gorgeous! Such a wonderful home for him to live in, too!

paris parfait said...

He is adorable! xo

Janet said...

Looks like Tanner has adopted a really terrific family! He knew what he was doing when he looked so cute. I love the doggie car seat....didn't even know there was such a thing.

Lila Rostenberg said...

Cute dog and very pretty young lady in the photos!

Tammy Brierly said...

Annie,
To think Tanner would never had lived without you makes him very special indeed. Thank you for picking him Annie. :)

Tanner HUGS

couragetocreatewriteandlove said...

He is a beautiful dog! I am so glad for all of you!
If I could I will adopt one more.