charlierhodes

[charlierhodes]

Ugh, it just breaks my heart thinking about what that poor dog went through, but you're right—sometimes things just work out the way they're meant to. I love that he's in a better place now. He’s probably got the best life now, surrounded by people who care about him.

You should! I bet the guys at the station would get such a kick out of having a couple of furballs around. Plus, who doesn’t love some extra snuggles during a tough day?

There are some absolute scum out there, Charlie, but things happen for a reason, right? This dog's journey wasn't meant to stay with that loser, and the adoption into that firehouse most likely provided him a much better life than ever. It sucks that the little guy went through hell to get there, but it all worked out in the end.

YEEEEEEEEEES! We have yet to adopt a pup into the station, but we should hit up the shelter and get a dog or two to add to the team! You and Poppy can come over whenever you're in the neighborhood. Everyone at the station likes it when people swing by with pets, kids, or food!

[charlierhodes]

I honestly haven't really thought about that movie in a while -- which is a little surprising because I was obsessed with the idea that I'd have my own Tramp to share spaghetti with one day. Not that I like, thought I was a dog or anything. I just thought the whole Bella Notte scene would make a really cute date back then. Now? Kinda just sounds like a mess waiting to happen. But thanks! That's good to know, because I actually have some in the house and it's so hard to resist their little faces when they're asking for treats.

Yeah, them and pretty much any of the other breeds with those faces. Oh! I don't think I've heard much about that breed, but I did just google and wow, sounds like a few similar issues that labs generally have and some others. You're right though, they're gorgeous dogs! And so cute, I mean that's what Lady from Lady and the Tramp was! No worries, I'm always happy to help! Hmm... you know I definitely know there's quite a few that are good, I know grapes are bad and in relation to that, obviously raisins. But a quick google search is showing me that dragonfruit is a-okay! You just have to make sure to remove the skin.

[charlierhodes]

Luckily for little Poppy, I'm not most people.

The number of people who don't think about that when getting a pet is astronomical, especially this time of year.

[charlierhodes]

Yesss, perfect! It’s a plan then—we’ll wait until the season’s out, and then it’s full-on girls' night mode. You know I’m holding you to that snacks promise, and I'll make sure we have plenty of wine and drinks! Poppy and Elle can have their own little playdate while we watch—double the fun for everyone. Can’t wait to hang out and catch up properly. It’s going to be such a vibe! 💕

Oh my god, yes! I'm so feeling it! Honestly, I haven't had nearly as many girls nights lately as I should and that's definitely so upsetting, so let's fix that soon, please! Probs a better idea to wait and let it finish out first, but then we'll definitely get together and watch! I'll even say right now that I've got our snacks covered!

[charlierhodes]

I really only know about like how pugs got their squishy faces and the problems that causes, and then I think there was something about cocker spaniels? But I can't remember what their thing was, just that they have some kind of bad thing with the breed, which is so awful because they're such a pretty dog! And thank you! I've gotten so many offers for help, which is great because this is like my first official adult pet, you know? But if I think of anything, I'll let you know! Wait, could I like, ask you about what's okay to feed her? Like from human foods? I know the basics, but there's some that I'm not sure about. Like dragon fruit... is that a yay or nay for doggos?

Oh, I know what you mean! I'm totally a victim of looking at pet stores when I was younger. Then when I started volunteering and later on working the reception desk at the vet's office, I learned about how so many of those breeds were bred to end up being super unhealthy. Which in turn, makes them super high maintenance. It's like when I found out hermit crabs and goldfish actually need a lot more care than just a tiny container. But at least we learned and know better now, and I just do what I can to help the rescues! And OMG that's so great that you adopted Poppy! I knew with how sweet she was that she wouldn't be stuck there for long, I'm so glad someone I know adopted her! If you need anything at all, let me know, I'm always here to help!

[charlierhodes]

Oh my gosh, same though! Except for you know, this girl lol I've had lots of girl's nights by myself. I actually need to get better at actually going out and socializing again, which is a problem I never thought I'd have. But yes! The finale is next week I wanna say? We can shoot for after New Year's though to binge the season. Although, that's not to say we should wait until after Christmas to at least meet up for shopping! Have you done all your gift shopping yet?

Oh my god, yes! I'm so feeling it! Honestly, I haven't had nearly as many girls nights lately as I should and that's definitely so upsetting, so let's fix that soon, please! Probs a better idea to wait and let it finish out first, but then we'll definitely get together and watch! I'll even say right now that I've got our snacks covered!

[charlierhodes]

Oh my god, for real? That's so sad that the poor little pup got burned and abandoned, but I'm glad he's in a good home now. And sounds like he's got an entire crew to take care of him, so good for him. Is he okay though? No damage from the fire or anything? Poor little guy...

I did! And she's the best decision I ever made, to be honest. It's been so nice to have her to come home to. She gets so excited when I come through the door, it's the best. Especially on busy days and I'm really stressed out. Maybe I'll bring her by the station, hopefully on a day your new rescue friend is there? She loves making new friends, she got along great with Amber's little pup.

Put it on a hoodie or something with oversized pockets so you can carry your dog around if the dog is small enough to fit. Some big dogs think they're lapdogs, which is absolutely the best. I thought of you this morning, and it's funny because you just said what happened! This pup was burned in a fire and was rescued. The owner abandoned the dog at the vet, and the firefighter who rescued him adopted the poor little guy. Now, the dog's a firefighter.

Hold up.

You did it?! No way! When will I meet Poppy? You better brace yourself because I plan to spoil her with treats and toys. Ask Nick how I am with Max. I fucking love dogs.

[charlierhodes]

I KNOW, right?! It’s like meant to be that our pups are besties too! I’m obsessed with how perfectly everything is falling into place. 😍 And yes, we definitely need to make sure they hang out all the time! Poppy and Elle are going to be the cutest duo ever, I can already tell. OH, speaking of play dates... The Ultimatum just dropped a new season. Feel like a girls night in soon to binge it? Totally fine waiting until the entire season is out if that works better.

Awwww!!! Elle had so much fun with Poppy, too! It's totally safe to say she adores her new bestie just as much. We'll just have to make sure to make so many plans so our girls can keep seeing each other! And can we talk about how totally fitting it is that not only are we besties, but we both got new puppies and made them besties, too? I love that for us!

[charlierhodes]

Oooh, cutie! What's pup's name?

Love my pup.

[charlierhodes]

Did you get kissed last New Year’s? Do you hope to get kissed this New Year’s?

I didn't, but like, that's because I didn't really do anything last year. I plan to go out this year though, so guess we'll see what happens.

[charlierhodes]

What’s your favourite seasonal scent?

I actually have a new one! I just found these wax melts and they are amazing. It's called Christmas Morning, and it's like cinnamon, coffee, caramel, and vanilla scented. I might have bought an insane amount and my apartment will smell like Christmas for a while.

[charlierhodes]

Oh, I've already taken soooooo many pictures, and she's only just moved in yesterday. Granted, a lot of them are blurry because she's been zooming around the place to try and figure out where everything is. But once she's settled, my socials will probably consist of nothing but her precious little face.

He does have a very convincing face, I'll give him that much. You know what this means though, right? If you DO find your own little doggo, you have to immediately post pictures for the rest of us to appreciate, it's practically written into the contract now.

[charlierhodes]

Well, like, obviously? That tends to be how things work with all living things.

Just don't forget the part where they grow up and stop being puppy sized.

[charlierhodes]

OMG, stop it—frankenpup of happiness? That is the cutest thing I’ve ever heard, Matt. I’m putting it on a shirt. But seriously, if you actually manage to make that policy change happen, I’m gonna scream. In the good way, obviously. Like, how iconic would it be to have a station mascot? Just imagine a pup in a tiny firefighter hat! Ugh, too adorable.

And you’re totally right—mutts are the absolute best, especially mine. I found the cutest little fox terrier mix, her name is Poppy and she is just the most amazing floof I've ever met. I might be biased, but whatever.

It depends on the station. Two of the ones I worked at in the past only allowed FEMA US&R (Urban Search & Rescue). However, since I'm the captain here, I can always go through the policy and see if it's the same here or if we're allowed to bring actual pets. Then, we can get a station pet that's not used in the line of duty. IF we get a little fur ball here, I'll give you the honors to name it. Just because you led me down the path to a potential policy change.

I couldn't agree more. I love it it when you can't tell what the hell a dog is mixed with. It's almost like a frankenpup of happiness.

Have you made your decision???

[charlierhodes]

Ahh, I totally get it! It's wild how time flies and how much things can shift, but I’m all in for us getting back in sync! Which will be way easier now that we have besties that we can't keep apart. I swear, Poppy's been like, looking for Elle all day like she expected her to be here when she got home. It's a little heartbreaking to be honest. She's better now, I've got her all settled into her new bed. We'll just have to make plans to get them together again soon.

Oh my god, literally the definition of having a love-hate relationship with something though! Like, obvs, more than anything, I want both of us to be thriving to the fullest extent and that's most important. But, at the same time, it does feel totally weird that we're so out of the loop with each other! So, in my opinion, we absolutely need to fix that so we can just have both again! Ahhh, yes! That's such a perfect idea. I'm sure Elle has her little friends in the shelter she'd like to see again, too! Let's do it!

[charlierhodes]

Not gonna lie, I've stopped into puppy stores before, even thought about getting one from there! And like, you know those pet shops they had in the malls once upon a time? I used to beg my mom for one of those every time we went. And like, I don't know all the icky stuff behind them, but I'm glad I didn't go to one. I didn't have a specific breed in mind, so there was no point going to a place where you need to have that in mind. Plus, like you said, there's plenty of pets in the shelters -- and I found one! A cute little fox terrier named Poppy. She's officially moved in as of today, so she's still a little shy and getting used to her new surroundings but so far it's been great! She's such a sweet little pup.

Exactly, plus pets are family, not accessories. And while designer breeds absolutely deserve better than the awful conditions of puppy mills where so many of them come from, it's always better to adopt than shop. There are so many amazing dogs waiting for a second chance at life. And hopefully one day the all the puppy mills and the backyard breeders will finally just be shut down so that every animal can have a happy, healthy life with people who genuinely care for them. You’re going to make one pup incredibly lucky! I can't wait to see who you end up with!

[charlierhodes]

DESPERATE HOUSEWIVES 3.20 — "Gossip"