When we first brought Cora into our family, I didn’t expect the emotional whirlwind that would follow — especially when it came to Tarzan.
Tarzan has been my constant companion since he was just 5 weeks old. Now, almost five years later, he’s still my big goofy love. But when Cora arrived, I could feel something shift. Tarzan seemed sadder, quieter, like he wasn’t sure where he fit anymore. And I felt it too — a deep guilt creeping in that I might be loving him less.
One evening, I was listening to Olivia Rodrigo’s song “traitor,” and when she sang “You betrayed me,” the tears just started flowing. That moment hit me hard — I felt like Tarzan might be feeling that same sense of betrayal, like I was turning my attention away from him. That raw emotion made me realize how important it was to honor both my feelings and his.
Since then, something I started doing is carving out small moments just for me and Tarzan. It might not happen every day, but throughout the week I look for chances — maybe a quiet walk just the two of us, or some cuddle time on the couch. Those little pockets of connection remind me that my bond with Tarzan is still strong and growing.
I never wanted Tarzan to feel replaced or less important. He’s been with me through so much, my first fur baby, my heart in dog form. But watching him adjust, and wrestling with my own emotions, was hard.
Over time, I learned that love isn’t a limited resource. Loving Cora doesn’t mean I love Tarzan any less. It just means there’s more love in our family now. And while it hasn’t always been easy, the way Tarzan and Cora have grown into a duo has been one of the most beautiful things to witness.
If you’re ever feeling that tug of guilt or worry when adding a new pup to your family, you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel overwhelmed, and it’s okay to cry. Your bond with your first dog is special — and it will grow in new ways, not disappear.
Here’s to the journey of expanding our hearts and homes, one paw at a time.
— Paloma and Her Pups
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