Visitor

When Chris and his family came over to prune some shrubs for us they brought along this little friend. She was in the road near their home so he rescued her from passing traffic. You can see her little tags. They say her name is Princess and there was a phone number for the owner. Chris left a message then they all came over here. I was smitten instantly. One of the kids wondered aloud what they would do with her if they went on vacation and hadn't been able to make connections with the owner. I told them that if we weren't looking at health things, I would love to tend her. Someone else said, "See, what did I tell you!" My reputation as an animal lover, even on a part time basis is solidly intact. While they were here, Chris got the important call on his cell, so I was only able to enjoy Princess for less than an hour. But what a delight. She was obviously well trained, didn't bark at all during her stay, and I am very glad I got to experience this little dog even for such a short time. Princess is another of my "part-time pets".

Nick with Princess and his cash for a job well done.

It's a Dog's Life

I'm not sure why the phrase Its a dog's life kept coming to mind this morning. And I'm not even sure if the phrase is meant to describe a negative or positive life. When I "googled" the phrase I didn't get much help. I get it that it must have begun as an English proverb because Google sent me to sites mainly in the UK. The National Library of Australia was mentioned as well as a newspaper in Canada. But nowhere did I find an explanation. The closest was a vague reference to the notion that whoever coined the phrase was not familiar with 21st century dogs. Anyway, it's another opportunity to post photos of the family Bassett Hounds. (Does "Bassett" have one "t" or 2?) If the phrase means you lie around all day, that could apply at times. If it means hard stuff, that could also apply. Maybe it's best to say, It is what it is and let it go at that! And say thank you to all the folks in our "pack". Your good wishes make a palpable difference!

Daisy: Canine Grandchild #2

Our daughter Kimberly just left after the task of coloring my hair. Good job, Kim! Maybe the color is a somewhat lighter tint of Daisy's brown. At least it has a little red in it. Daisy arrived as a sibling to Kimberly's Chance as a full grown Bassett. At least physically. But she is like a youngster in some of her ways. Very affectionate. Desirous of attention. A little slow to obey. (Make that QUITE slow!) But she is so delightful and charming, a real personality girl, that it is easy to love her. Look at those soulful eyes! And that tail just ready to wag like crazy. What a good dog is Daisy.

Canine Grandchild

Here is a photo of Chance, Kimberly's darling little dog. I was with her when she found him at the Humane Society. He stole her heart immediately and when she took him for a walk outside, it was clear that he had already bonded with her. He didn't want to have much to do with me. She has taken him from a fearful dog who growled and barked at all of us to a friendly and loving little guy. It took patience and training on her part but now he is a wonderful companion for her, sensitive to her feelings and lively but sweet.