Lulabelle! (Lullabelle? Lulubelle?)

After years of debate, and much thought, E and I decided it was time for a dog. Last weekend we went to BARCS, a large shelter downtown, and the MD SPCA to check out our options. Having been warned to visit several dogs (at least), and return at least once to see our favorite again before making a final decision, we did exactly that and eventually settled on "Shy Shy" (ridiculous name, I know), a four year old female surrendered by her previous owners because they were moving.

When we first saw Shy Shy, she was a little frenetic in her kennel, but was so affectionate and attentive we took her out for a visit anyhow. Outside in the dog run, Shy Shy was a much more relaxed, was submissive but not afraid, and was happy to play fetch for a few minutes. Another big perk - the dog waited until we were outside to pee, suggesting she might be housebroken. So, we thought it over for a few more days, decided she seemed pretty perfect, then went back to pick her up. Last Friday, after a two and a half hour wait at the shelter, we picked up Shy Shy, and promptly renamed her Lulabelle - Lulu for short. Now, after a few days at home, Lulu is acclimating well (although she has yet to be fully introduced to the cats), is very easy-going about sleeping in her crate at night, and is indeed house-broken. E and I are loving her guts. Oh, and for those of you worried about her gigantic mouth and some highly hypothetical babies, Lex says "Lulu is the best dog ever and I would be sincerely surprised if she eats your future babies." A few photos below: