Dog Lover

Dog lover definitely describes me. Dogs have been part of my family for much of my life. I have been a dog “sister”, “mother” and friend. Each canine family member and friend has possessed distinctive traits that provided entertainment and ample companionship. These moments were not only delightful, but often disclosed exceptional love, devotion and life lessons.  My life story would not be complete without these allies and their teachings about love, conduct and respect.  I have written three books about my beloved  King Charles Cavalier Spaniel named Forbes,who rarely let me out of his sight. His devotion was so deep and our bond so strong that I feel we would often communicate just by eye contact. Forbes came to me when he was 8 months old.  He was not house-broken or leash trained. If you put him on a leash, he would splay his legs like he was a mop.  I had to drag him like this until he got the idea. I took him with me everywhere around the house.  I taught him to wait for a command to eat, to use his crate and to go up and down the stairs.  He was enrolled in obedience and I found with the right approach, he learned very easily.  Later he went to advanced training and became a Canine Good Citizen. He excelled in cuddling with no training.  A natural, he would rest his head on my chest when I watched TV. We traveled together as much as possible.  He’s been sailing, flying, biking and of course in an automobile. He would stick his head out the doggy door and watch me as I backed out of the garage with a look like,”you’re really going to leave me?” And he was always waiting for me when I returned home.  He was loved in the neighborhood and played well with “Rice,” the neighbor dog.  Sadly, he passed away suddenly although he was 13 years of age. I continue to write using him as a main character.  Now I have adopted a girl named Adele (officially, "Adorable Adele").  She is a high energy dog but also a bit shy and fearful. She is acquiring numerous new skills. She loves socks.  Yes, SOCKS.  As soon as you take one off or drop one from the laundry, she grabs it and runs with it.  She seems very pleased with herself. She has good house manners and is a good traveler but needs some practice with socialization outside the home. Follow me as I continue to learn and grow by observing Adele and other wonderful dogs.

Adele jumping.

                

                     Adele