Expectations are normal. We all have them, in almost every area of our lives. When we meet someone that might become a new friend, we subconsciously assess them. We make assumptions how they might be, what their likes are, what we might have in common. Sometimes we are right, sometimes we are not. We learn about them, about each other, and we adjust our communication styles as needed to be able to pursue that friendship. Common ground is established, and we start from there. We change our expectations as we go. There’s no difference really, when dealing with a new pet. Except that sometimes, it seems, we get too wrapped up in our expectations.