Far At Sea, Newfie Ashore

[Bill382]

Starting on the 25th of March, I shipped out for the first time since bringing home
Timber. Separation from my dear pet has not proven easy, especially during downtime aboard the ship. I routinely find myself surfing the internet looking at pictures and videos of Newfoundlands. There aren't any Newfies out here in Hawaii, which doesn't surprise me at all.

How do you all cope with long-term separation from your dogs?

 

[Brandie&Maggie]

I'm sorry you have to be away! I have never been away for more than about 10-12 days, but even that is hard. I can't imagine having to be away longer.

When I'm away I have my husband or whoever is taking care of Maggie send me pictures or videos. My husband was away for about 6 months at one point, and I did the same for him. It's not the same, but its something!

It's hard to be away, but the homecoming is always wonderful!

 

[Jager's Mom]

Sorry you have to be away from your baby...

I usually miss my big guy after being away for dinner with friends LOL. We have cameras on the dogs, so we can look at them throughout dinner via our cell phones.

I'd say....if you can Skype with someone that has your pup...or if there is a way that you can have cameras put up, you can then access them by internet (password protected,too)

 

[DAWNMERIE]

Well, I can't help you with your long-term separation issues, cause I'm going through them myself even though it's just with one of my pups (whom I see every night) but he has decided it's time to retire and not go to work anymore and just stay home with the kids....IT'S KILL'IN ME! Navy? My other half was stationed out there many moons ago! I think video's are wonderful...I also scour youtube, when I need my fixes! And I do think you have a few Newfs out there...might be hard to find but they are there!

 

[scarlet's mom]

I believe there is a regional Newf. club of Hawaii..I am sure they will be happy to give you a healthy dose of Newf kisses and hugs!

 

[NinaA]

Skype. My Moonlight does recognize my grand girls on Skype. It's really the best when you're far away from the ones you love. Also, your Newf will remember you. Mine just went nuts when someone visited that she hadn't seen in 5 years.

 

[lmfoltyn]

Awww...that is so hard...I would suggest the Skype also...my dog never has separation anxiety but I do! LOL...

 

[shellyk]

Thank you for your service. Just another reminder of the sacrifices you make for all of us. Wouldn't it be wonderful if you could take Timber with you :nod: I bet all your shipmates would like it too!

 

[Bill382]

Thank you all for your advice! Life in the Merchant Marine is not without sacrifice. The separation hurts, but thankfully the pay makes up for it. In the meantime, I will look into the newfoundland club of Hawaii and see if I can find any newfies out here in the Aloha State.

 

[Newfs Forever]

Good luck to you Bill!

I feel badly leaving any one of my dogs for even an overnight!

But, you have some great suggestions here.