 After six weeks of searching and false starts we finally found the right puppy to join our home. We found Harlan at the Santa Clara Humane Society after driving 200 miles in one day and searching four other shelters all over the Bay Area.
Harlan is a 7-month old Newfoundland/Sharpei mix. If he grows into his head, he is going to be HUGE!!
We had to go through a rigorous application process before they would even let us meet him one on one. Because we wanted Harlan so badly, we second guessed ourselves on every question, such as – How long will the dog be home by itself? I understand why they want to approve potential "parents" before meeting the animals, but it is still a stressful process.
When we were finally able to meet Harlan, Paul and I fell in love. He is very sweet and calm. Although he is still a puppy, he doesn't jump up and is very well mannered. However, we weren't in the clear yet. The shelter insisted that we bring Mushu to meet Harlan to make sure they would get along.
We returned to the shelter with Mushu in tow and were greatly relieved when the two dogs didn't kill each other.
Over the last few days, Mushu has been rightfully establishing her place as the alpha dog - which is pretty funny to watch since Harlan is head and shoulders above her. Last night, I was pleased to see Harlan laying next to Mushu with his head on her paws. For the first time since Murphy passed away, I feel like our family is whole again.
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