Was it just last week I was waxing rhapsodic about boys and dogs? I jinxed it. It’s all my fault.
MVP’s sweet Australian Shepherd mix puppy, Roxy, has hip dysplasia. If you’re a dog owner you’re groaning out loud right now because you know that means big bucks.
I have to say that when MVP first raised the idea of getting a dog I cautioned him against it. Pet ownership can be expensive was my motherly warning. I said my piece and then I bit my tongue and was happy that he was enjoying his pup so much.
When he called me about the dog’s need for a (gulp) $2500 surgery I was totally bummed. When he did not ask his parents for the money, but investigated his options and obtained financing through a company that works with veterinarians to finance unexpected and astronomical pet expenses and made all the arrangements for a 12-month, interest-free loan that he will repay on his own, I was pretty darn proud of him.
I’m still bummed that the nice chunk of money that he’s going to earn coaching water polo this summer is going to go to get him out of debt instead of getting him ahead, but having a dog was his choice. And hey, he could be spending the money on heroin!*
*That means something to you if you’ve been around since the beginning—if not, you’ll want to read this.
No, you didn't jinx it. It would have happened anyways.
Kudos to your son for his responsibility.
Posted by: Smalltown Mom | December 07, 2009 at 12:36 AM
I'm so sorry about Roxy. What a fine young man MVP is. I hope the surgery is a complete success and they can be out roaming again before long.
Posted by: Deb D | December 07, 2009 at 07:37 AM
I am also so proud of your son...he is really growing up and figured this out on his own. Pets can really cost you. A lesson well learned.
Loved the older post about your nails too...I have never been able to justify getting mine done. But really, since I don't shoot up, why NOT?
Posted by: busy bee suz | December 07, 2009 at 08:15 AM
Oh, so sorry.
but what a great lesson in responsibility, huh?
Posted by: Maureen@IslandRoar | December 07, 2009 at 08:39 AM
I'm sorry to hear about MVP's dog, it's really a bummer. I hope the surgery goes smoothly and is successful. I'd be very proud of my son for taking responsibility like MVP is, just shows you've raise him right!!
Posted by: Tammy | December 07, 2009 at 08:49 AM
Every time I learn more about MVP, I am in great hopes that a few of mine will turn out like him.
*love* the addict remark. That is exactly how I justify my odd purchases!
Posted by: kcinnova | December 07, 2009 at 09:35 AM
wow - you've raised a responsible son!
My boys (and husband) are wanting a dog. One of the (many) reasons I am hesitant is the cost involved...like, what if it needs surgery?!?
I think I'll put the dog thing off for a while longer ;)
Posted by: LifeAsIKnowIt | December 07, 2009 at 10:35 AM
You have got to be so proud of him! Imagine, a college student not asking his parents for money?!
Posted by: jen | December 07, 2009 at 11:23 AM
That kid is WAY better than I was at his age. Or, uh, now, really.
Posted by: Aunt Becky | December 07, 2009 at 11:29 AM
Gah, bummer! Poor dog, poor boy, hope all turns out well.
Posted by: Fannie | December 07, 2009 at 12:34 PM
That son of yours is someone for you and your husband to be very proud of!
Posted by: allmycke | December 07, 2009 at 12:44 PM
Wow, that is expensive. And totally brings to mind our babysitter who spends all her earnings on...a HORSE.
Posted by: Green Girl in Wisconsin | December 07, 2009 at 01:12 PM
Oh no! That is a bummer! Your awesome parenting shows in MVP's sense of responsibility!
Posted by: Kelly | December 07, 2009 at 02:11 PM
Good for him and good luck with the surgery.
Posted by: Brightside-Susan | December 07, 2009 at 06:07 PM