First Dog

As the sun peacefully rose over the city, Abe dashed outside to stretch his puppy bones and play in the only place he was allowed - the South Lawn.

Abe was not your ordinary pet.  His family was not your ordinary family.  Their home was not your ordinary home.

You see, Abe - an American Foxhound - held the title First Dog.  His human mom was the First Lady and his human dad was the President of the United States.  Their home was the White House.

Of course, Abe did not know how important his family meant to the country.  He only knew what any other pup knew - meal time, play time, and nap time.  

Abe was forever a rascal when trying to play in the Rose Garden.  His dad was forever chasing him out to prepare for a news conference.

Today was a special day for Abe, his family, and the country - today was the Fourth of July.  In a city filled with change, one constant remained - celebrating the United States of America at her finest...despite historical flaws.  

After the President addressed the nation ahead of the formal party bashes, George - as Abe knew him - settled in with his wife, young children, and trusty Abe to a delicious meal and admiring spectacular fireworks on television.

It's good to be First Dog.

Paw Five Break

Dear readers and passersby,

I once again need to take a breather. 

I recently launched an online business and all of my focus is on promotion and getting customers.

I will keep posting to Bedtime Tails, but sadly not as often. 

I love Bedtime Tails so much and will not let you - my readers and passersby - down.  I ask only that you bear with me.

Paw Five always,
Lauren

Bedtime Tails Special - Top 5 Favorite Reads

Dear readers and passersby,

In this Bedtime Tails special, I thought I would offer my top 5 favorite puppy love tales.

As always,

Paw five!

Scottie Christmas 

A Boxer's Story

Prince Pembroke

The Pug Who Could Fly

Saluki - A History

Saluki - A History

Every Friday, the sixth-grade class at Clark Middle School got to choose their history lesson for the day.

On one special Friday, the Clark Middle School History teacher - Ms. Jones - brought her newly adopted Saluki dog to class.  At the time, the class was learning about Ancient History and the Saluki breed offers an extensive background.  The students were eager to learn more about Ms. Jones's dog and so chose her Saluki dog as the Friday history lesson.

Saluki - A History

The Saluki's pure-bred origins began in the Fertile Crescent - the Middle Eastern region comprised of modern-day Iraq, Israel, Palestinian Territories, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Jordan, the southeastern edge of Turkey, and the western edge of Iran - as far back as 6,000 to 7,000 B.C.E.  Images of the Saluki are etched into pottery, wall carvings, book illustrations, and tombs as well as mention in poetry.  Saluki-like dogs can also be traced to the Ming Dynasty in China via the Silk Road trading route from ancient Iran to China.

The King of Bahrain was known for traveling the Arab world with his Saluki pack on hunting trips during the 1930s.  The Saluki as a pure-bred dog is registered with the Kennel Club of Bahrain.

Saluki prominence in Europe dates to the 1920s - specifically Germnay, the Netherlands, and Sweden.  After World War I, Salukis became increasingly popular in the West.  In 1923, the breed was registered in the UK Kennel Club.  In 1929, the breed was registered with the American Kennel Club.  In 1927, the Saluki Club of America was founded.

"The Saluki is independent and requires gentle and patient training.  The Saluki is not one for fetching activity.  As a natural hunting dog by sight rather than by scent, the Saluki is known for chasing moving objects such as cats, birds, and other animals...even bugs!  The Guinness Book of Records lists the Saluki as the fastest dog at over 42 miles per hour..."

On that note, the bell rang.

The History class was the last for the students on this Friday and they thoroughly enjoyed their lesson...and of course their teacher's pet.

Chow Annie

She was a beautiful dog - Chow Chow/German Shepherd mix.  She had the temperament of her age at only one year old - playful and loving.  The shelter named her Annie.  A sweet name for a sweet pup.  Paige fell in love at first sight and they goofed around while her mom filled out the adoption forms.

Annie was the first dog Paige ever owned.  She was not entirely sure how to care for a dog beyond food and water.  She knew about daily walks - but how often?  She knew about playtime - but indoors or outdoors?  Paige and her mom had basic necessities ready for Annie and the shelter kindly offered a leash and toys as part of the adoption process.  So now what?

Over the next couple of days, Annie got used to her new home and Paige got used to her new pet.  They went on afternoon walks for exercise and potty breaks.  They played in the park across the street from Paige's home.  They even met a neighbor with his dog.  Paige was so happy to have Annie in her life.  Annie was happy to have a forever home, except...

Annie could sense that Paige was a new dog owner.  How?  Paige could not understand why Annie would not go for her daily walk and potty break in rainy weather.  Annie did not like rain at all and became frustrated when Paige became frustrated.  When they spent time at home, the atmosphere felt lonely while Annie played with her favorite indoor toy and Paige sadly could not help but wonder if she was meant for Annie.

On one warm, sunny Saturday afternoon, Paige shared her concerns with her mom who - knowing her daughter as well as she did - agreed.  Paige's mom called the shelter Annie was brought home from to let them know her forever home was not meant to be.  They were sorry but understood.

Paige was too emotional to go with her mom to bring Annie back to the shelter.  Before they left, Annie leaned into Paige's body to calm her.  In Annie's own way, she let Paige know she understood and would remember her always.

"She will be okay, sweetheart," said Paige's mom as bravely as possible.  

"I know," Paige said as she petted Annie one last time.

And they left.

Chow Annie

K-9 Honors

Military Working Dog Teams

National Monument

San Antonio, Texas

On this Memorial Day 2019, I want to honor not only those who bravely serve the United States but K-9 dogs who bravely train to go into battle as well. 

Military Working Dogs (MWD) are trained in a unique manner - far from basic behavioral training as a pet and even service training for individuals in need.  Military Working Dogs are, as service dogs, deemed to be "a non-lethal option for neutralizing a threat." (Go Army)

Typical tasks a Working Dog is trained for include -
- Patrol Drug Detector
- Patrol Explosive Detector
- Health and Welfare Searches
- Law and Order Operations
- VIP Support
- Customs Support

Handlers go through 17 weeks of advanced training to work with an MWD.  Full details can be found here.

The history of dogs for military purposes dates to B.C. eras.  In the United States, dogs for military purposes date to the Seminole Wars and the Civil War.  Hounds were used to "protect, send messages, and guard prisoners." (Wikipedia)

Sergeant Stubby, a Bull Terrier or Boston Terrier, was the most decorated war dog in World War I.  He learned to warn of poison gas attacks, locate wounded soldiers in no man's land, and when to duck for cover. (Wikipedia)

Chips, a German Shepherd-Collie-Siberian Husky mix, was the most decorated war dog in World War II - receiving the Distinguished Service Cross, Silver Star, and Purple Heart. (Wikipedia)

Roughly 5,000 U.S. war dogs served in the Vietnam War. (Wikipedia)

In 2011, the United States Navy SEALs sent Cairo, a Belgian Malinois, into Operation Neptune Spear, where Osama bin Laden was killed. (Wikipedia)

The use of dogs in warfare is not limited to United States assumption.  Allies and opposing countries also have a history with using dogs in warfare.  A full list can be found on Wikipedia.

Example photos of Military Working Dogs -

MWD wearing body armor

Escalation of force training

Afghanistan

K-9 Unit training

U.S. Naval Security

German Shepherd MWD

Wearing body armor

Clears a building in Afghanistan

Navy Master-at-arms

Firing blank ammunition

Condition the dog to sound

U.S. Navy handler with MWD

National War Dog Cemetery

Naval Base Guam

Paw Five Break

Dear readers and passersby,

I am taking a brief break from Bedtime Tails to catch my breath. 

Don't worry, though, because I hope to return next week.

In the meantime,
Paw Five!

His Buddy, Red

"What would I do without you, Red?"

This story began when  David Williams took his Pit Bull, Red, for a Saturday afternoon run in the local park one week ago.

"Come on, boy.  Time for our daily run," David called out as he grabbed Red's leash, iPod, and his apartment keys.

Red loved exercise time with his human dad, David.  He really liked the apartment he lived in with David, but Red was always filled with puppy energy and a one-bedroom apartment did not have enough space to keep up with him.  Daily runs were the highlight of his afternoons...

With his recently purchased iPod set to shuffle and Red's leash secured to his collar, David took to his run.  He always had the volume up because afternoons in the park were busy with food vendors, other joggers, children playing in the playground, and just overall eclectic energy that he preferred to ignore.  Although David worked from home, his schedule kept him just as busy and stressed as if he were on-site.  His daily afternoon runs were welcomed breaks.

Out of nowhere...

"Your money or your life."

David halted to a stop so fast that he nearly lost his balance.  Red began barking at a piercing pitch.

"I saw your iPod.  Your money or your life."

David's heart rate picked up, but he somehow calmly said,

"No."

"I said..."

"And I said no."

"Okay then..."

David awoke in a fog.  He sustained serious injuries that required intensive in-patient care.

"Where's Red?" he asked over his immense pain.

The nurse tending to his vitals hesitated her response.

"Um, your puppy was rushed to veterinary emergency care.  We were told that he is in surgery, but is expected to...Oh gosh, Mr. Williams."

"Don't tell me," David said as he gently cried himself back to sleep.

One week later...

Bark!

He was expected to be okay but...the injuries he needed emergency surgery for left him without use of his hind legs.  Red would forever be in a canine wheelchair but...He would be okay.  He saved his dad's life and that is all that mattered.

Bark!

"I know, Red, I know.  Physical therapy time."

The two had been released to come home with intensive physical therapy.  David, who was on crutches, helped Red as much as Red helped David.

The therapy was painful, but Red's puppy energy - despite his wheelchair - had come to fill the one-bedroom apartment with all the space he needed and was therefore able to help his dad.

Bark!

David lightly laughed and said,

"What would I do without you, Red?"

Her Girl, Amber

Amy looked forward to every summer break when she was in high school.  Where some went on vacation, some spent lazy days outdoors, and some worked part time to gain employment experience, Amy volunteered at the local humane society.

The condominium Amy and her family lived in did not allow dogs, so she always took special care of the puppies and older dogs waiting for their forever homes.

This summer break was rather bittersweet for Amy.  She was heading into her senior year and would be leaving the state for college after graduation.

"We are just so sad to see you go at the end of your break.  The pups especially will miss you."

"I'll miss you guys too, but I do still have one more week.  Don't get sentimental yet.  You'll make me cry."

A sorrowful bark could be heard from one of the kennels.

Amy instinctively knew the bark.

Amber was a one-year-old Poodle-Cocker Spaniel mix that had called Paw Five Humane Society home all summer.  This broke Amy's heart because Amber was always eager to please, playfully goofy, known to be good with children and other animals, and possessed a truly gentle soul.

"Amber, why do you sound so sad today?" Amy asked as she hooked a leash to Amber's collar.

"Come on, girl.  Let's go for our daily walk."

Their daily walk had the same destination - down the deserted side street and to a grassy hill overlooking a pond and new residential construction.  Amy always had a toy or two on hand and Amber always loved playtime.  Today seemed different though.

As Amy settled down, she tossed a favorite rope toy for Amber to chase and bring back.  Amber stared in the direction of the toy and then back at Amy.

"Amber, honey, don't you want to play?"

Amber looked deep into Amy's eyes.  Her little soul knew Amy would be leaving soon.  There was one trait about Amber that Amy would forever miss - her want of giving love to others.

"Okay, girl.  Come sit in my lap and I'll just pet you."

They sat on the grassy hill for what seemed like hours.  Amy spoke to Amber as though Amber could actually understand and respond.  She gently petted Amber and lightly rubbed her belly.  Amy had created a bond with Amber over the past summer months that was irreplaceable and permanent.  Amy often wished she could bring Amber home with her, but knew that a forever home was out there somewhere.

Amy glanced at her watch and realized that a couple of hours really had gone by.  She picked up the toys, took hold of the leash, and said,

"Come on girl, time to go."

When the two came back and Amy got Amber settled into her kennel with new food and water, Amy resumed other tasks.

At five o'clock, Amy said goodbye to the staff for the day and headed home.

The next day...

"Where's Amber?" Amy asked one of the staff members when she checked on the dogs in their kennels.

She didn't need to ask.  She knew.  Joan - the Paw Five Humane Society director - swelled with tears and said,

"She's been adopted."

"Oh."

Good tears.  Happy tears.  Amber finally found a forever home.  But Amber was Amy's girl.  You know what, Amy thought to herself.  Amber would always be in her heart and thoughts.  Amber would always be Amy's girl.  

Bedtime Tails Birthday Edition - Go Humane

On this the 29th of April 2019, I am celebrating my birthday with you - dog owners, dog lovers, and overall lover of all furry ones!  My birthday wish on Bedtime Tails is honoring humane societies nationwide - whether by volunteering, donating, or adopting.

Do you remember the story, Casey at Bat?  In 2011, my mother and I adopted a very young puppy Rat Terrier that I named Casey.  We adopted him from The Anti-Cruelty Society in Chicago, Illinois.  When we brought him home, his little energy was electric.  Our cat, Darby, was not too keen on having a brother...let alone him being a dog.  As a hobby, I research the history and personality types of many different dog breeds and Casey proved true to his.  Rat Terriers are known for chasing after vermin - hence "rat."  Casey saw Darby as a moving target - not a cat.  Sadly, we had to surrender him back to The Anti-Cruelty Society.  We did not have the anticipation and experience requisite to handling a puppy and especially of a breed like Casey's.  My advice to you - match your experience level with the traits of the pup you are interested in adopting, especially if you are a first-time owner.  The ultimate point to this story - we fully supported The Anti-Cruelty Society and always will.

When I was on summer break during one year in high school, I visited family in Hawaii.  My aunt suggested I volunteer at the Kauai Humane Society in Kauai, Hawaii.  I immediately agreed to the idea.  I cleaned the cat cages and doggie kennels.  The best perk?  I got to play with the puppies!  My heart melted with puppy love when I met a Saint Bernard puppy - what a bundle of fur!  And then there was the Golden Retriever litter.  They were as eager to spend time with me as I was with them.  We chased each other around the grassy yard, played with toys, took much needed breaks, and just enjoyed the company.  For every day I volunteered, this was our routine.  At the end of my stay and on return to the mainland, I felt a strong sense of sorrow.  To this day, I miss our playtime and bonding moments.  The Golden Retriever litter will forever have a place in my heart.  The ultimate point to this story - I fully supported the Kauai Humane Society and always will.

Although I am not a dog owner due to regulations in my condominium, two of my cats were adopted at the Naperville Area Humane Society in Naperville, Illinois.  

Darby Hovis - May 2005 (d. September 25, 2018)

Juliet "Jules" Hovis - April 2017

As you can tell, I will always go to the Naperville Area Humane Society for adoption.

Naperville Area Humane Society mission -

"Our mission is to promote the humane treatment of companion animals and create lasting human-animal bonds."

On this the 29th of April 2019, please support the humane society of your choice in what their unique mission is and in any way you can.  

Go Humane

The Pug Who Could Fly

Nigel was an international hit in rock and roll music.  He was well known for his expertise with the electric guitar and drums.  His specialty was the electric guitar, though.  He played with the classic rock band - The Andrew Brothers (ironically none of whom were related).  After ten years together, the band dissolved peacefully.  Nigel is now pursuing a solo music career with three roles in one - singer, guitarist, and drummer.  For now, Nigel is recording albums.  He has not played before an audience yet...but global interest wants him to.

When The Andrew Brothers performed in concert, they always took a tour bus from venue to venue.  They never had a reason to fly.  This was perfectly fine with Nigel.

There is something you should know about Nigel - he is terrified of flying.

There is something else you should know about Nigel - his adopted Pug, Charlie, is also afraid to fly.  How does Nigel know this?  The Humane Society he adopted Charlie from informed him that Charlie's last family frequently traveled the country and he always became ill in turbulence.  And so he was surrendered to the Humane Society, which worked out best for both Nigel and Charlie who love each other very much.

One day, Nigel brought Charlie to the recording studio when his agent stopped by.

"Hi Tom!  What brings you here today?"

"Hey Nigel.  I got a request this morning from the talk show, Morning Coffee.  They want to meet with you as a guest.  They know you're still recording, so you don't have to perform."

"Morning Coffee.  But that is on the west coast and we're in the Midwest!  I don't have a tour bus.  I'll have to fly!  No, Tom, no.  Tell them I am honored, but respectfully decline."

"Nigel, this is a perfect opportunity for you.  I mean, your publicity so far has been limited to local radio stations.  Morning Coffee...well, you know their ratings."

Nigel sighed and said,

"Yeah I do.  Morning Coffee is a great show, especially when they host summer concert Fridays.  I just..."

"You deserve this chance."

Nigel looked to Charlie, who seemed nervous already.

"Okay.  Tell them I said okay.

"One condition, Tom.  I have to bring Charlie.  You know how inseparable we are."

Now Tom sighed and said,

"Okay."

The next day was filled with sunshine and beautiful blue sky...and a bundle of upset nerves.

When they boarded the plane and were instructed to his window seat and Charlie's permitted seat next to him, Nigel began to panic.  What would happen if he fell ill in mid-flight?  How would Charlie react to his emotions?  What about Charlie?  Oh my goodness, worst case scenario.

I have to get off this plane, Nigel frantically thought to himself.

Too late.  The plane was racing down the runway and ascending.

The in-the-event flight instructions did not ease Nigel's mind.

He glanced out the window to see just how high up they were and found...something soothing - shining sun and a beautiful layer of clouds.  Every so often he could see far to the ground.

Nigel looked to Charlie, who was sleeping in a calm manner.  He smiled.  The trip wasn't so bad after all.

If Nigel could fly, so too could Charlie - the Pug who could fly.

Prince Pembroke

Springtime in the Pembroke countryside was always lovely.  Morning dew melted into freshly cut grass.  Leaves hinted to bud on the trees.  Flowers abound in all kinds and colors.  Spring aroma filled the air.  Sunshine and crystal blue sky weather every day.

He adored the spring season, especially with its touch of warmth.  His daily routine began early at the rise of springtime dawn.

There is something you should know about him - he is the prince of Pembroke and was born into royalty.  His family history dates as far as written records began.

If you unfold his story, you will find that Prince Pembroke is actually a Pembroke Welsh Corgi.  His mother, if you will, is the duchess of Pembroke and has long been fond of the Pembroke Welsh Corgi breed as has her mother and mother before her.  And so his history in the family reflects her history and every Pembroke Welsh Corgi before him was honorably titled "Prince" or "Princess."

The duke of Pembroke was often away on royal duty, so the duchess tended to her royal pup every day - a task she never minded.  Morning and noontime walks were enjoyable for exercise and chasing rascal rabbits (oh boy did he like this!).  He was very proper with his potty breaks.

At the end of every day, after supper, he slowly fell asleep in front of the living room fireplace as his human mother took to a good book.

It's good to be a prince.

Hammy to the Rescue

"...As we look ahead to Christmas Day, there will be a heavy snowfall which means we will have a white Christmas..."

"I'm sorry to interrupt your weather report, Mike, but we have breaking news.  The Christmas Thief has struck again.  Let's go live to Julia Anderson, who is at the residence of the latest robbery.  Julia."

Julia nodded her head in sympathy as she heard the anchor's voice come to her ear.

"Yes, the Christmas Thief has indeed struck again, making this robbery the third this week.  Now, I briefly spoke to the homeowner, who wanted her identity kept anonymously, so I will share what she said."

"Mrs. Thompkins, I cannot imagine your devastation with all of your Christmas presents stolen.  I know how much love goes behind purchasing the perfect gifts for family and even close friends.  And so for a heartless stranger to break in and steal...for what gain?"

"Exactly, for what gain.  I know the media is referring to this person as the Christmas Thief, but I would prefer to call him - or her - a real life Grinch.  A Grinch that ruined the holidays not just for me or the other homes, but for this community entirely.  Oh gosh, I'm sorry.  I can't talk anymore."

"That is what Mrs. Thompkins was able to share just a few minutes ago.  Now, the police are still searching for the Grinch...I mean, Christmas Thief.  One potential possibility the police have is the suspect wearing a Santa costume.  Of course, being the holidays, anyone could look like Santa.  At this point, all the police can do is go door to door with the hope of a holiday miracle.  Back to you in the studio."

"And off," said Jim as he turned off the living room television.

Jim deeply yawned and stretched his arms.

The time was half past ten on this Christmas Eve.  Jim's wife and two young daughters were at his wife's parents' home in the city.  Her parents were leaving for Europe in two days, so she wanted to enjoy some time with them.  Jim spent his time alone in the house decorating along to "Deck the Halls" and displaying presents under the tree while listening to "Winter Wonderland."

As the holiday music played, Jim heard a sleepy yawn from his one-year-old German Shepherd pup, Hammy.  Hammy was stretched out on the living room sofa, barely able to move from his grogginess.

Jim lightly laughed at Hammy's laziness.  Hammy was not one to follow in his breed's natural instincts.  He was young and still growing, so he took full advantage of being cute and adorable.  

As Jim turned off the house lights and locked all of the windows and doors, he wished Hammy a good night.  Hammy apparently had no intention of leaving his cozy position.

The Grandfather clock chimed at midnight.  Jim was fast asleep upstairs.  Hammy was fast asleep in the living room.  Silent night...

...Until there arose such a clatter.  Hammy sharply woke up to sounds coming from...the chimney?

Hammy glued his focus to something or someone slowly falling down the chimney.

Plop!  Someone fell to the grate and seemingly appeared to be Santa Claus.  To Hammy, this person was a stranger...who was quickly grabbing all of the presents under the tree.

Hammy let out a vicious bark that woke Jim with a start.

Jim raced down the stairs to find the one and only - the Christmas Thief.

"Put down the presents and raise your hands above your head!  I am a police officer and will have a full squad of backup with one call to 9-1-1!"

"But I'm Santa Claus!  Don't you have any Christmas spirit?!"

Jim didn't answer as blaring police sirens responded on his behalf.

"You heartlessly stole Christmas from this entire neighborhood, so I don't have any Christmas spirit for you.  Get him out of here, guys."

The police handcuffed the Christmas Thief, placed him in a squad car, and left.

Hammy stood just outside with Jim, who looked to him with a beaming smile.  He knew his pup had German Shepherd instinct in him.

Hammy came to the rescue.

The Gentle Giant

The heat of summer settled in early this year - in the month of May to be precise.  Welcome to Illinois, declared every meteorologist.

Some happily embraced the warmth, given the frigid cold and blizzard condition in the winter prior.  Many despised the summer season because of dangerous heat indexes and ominous thunderstorms.  Amy was one of these many, especially when keeping up with her rascal two-year-old son, Jack.

Amy was a stay-at-home mother of just Jack.  One would think that raising an only child would be easier than caring for more than one.  Jack proved that theory wrong.  He loved to play with his toys and anything that could be a toy.  Amy could never catch one second to herself, which frustrated her because her husband traveled often for his entrepreneurial business.

But then there is Michael - the family's seven-year-old giant Great Dane.  He was adopted straight out of nursing.  When Jack was born, Michael took on a protective role.  As Jack has grown, Michael has learned to be patient, tolerant, and gentle.  In fact, Michael is most known for his gentle nature.  Jack, though, tends to be a rascal around Michael - tugging roughly at his ears, burying his little toddler body into Michael's giant body at nap time.

Jack loves to play outside.  Amy and Michael are always very close behind.  In this summer heat, though, Amy was concerned for Jack's health.  But Jack did not want to be indoors.  She hinted at her son every toy he would want to play with inside.  He said no.

"Michael!" Amy shouted out, hoping he could convince Jack.

With her shout, Jack raced into their home and played with Michael until he was exhausted.  The two fell asleep for a long nap.

All Jack needed to calm down was Michael's gentle giant love.

A Boxer's Story

Every house on the block was decorated for Halloween - pumpkins lining the steps leading to the front porches, ghostly figures lined in the front lawns, a witch's hat on either side of the front doors, cackling noises played over stereos on the front porches, and a welcome greeting hanged on the front doors - Happy Halloween!  Welcome Trick or Treaters!

Danny loved this time of year because he got to dress in anything his imagination desired.  Otherwise, however, he did not look forward to leaving his home and going to school.

Danny was eleven years old and well into the sixth grade.  His seating chart in ever class was in the back of every room.  He often strained his eyes to see the blackboard because for some reason, his teachers wrote in small print.

One day, Danny came home early with a headache.

"Mom, I just can't see across the rooms.  What should I do?"

"Well, I think we should get your sight checked."

When they went to the eye doctor, Danny struggled to read the finer print in the eye chart.

"Okay, Mrs. Lawrence, your son has severe difficulty seeing long distance and if gone untreated, he could experience physical ill symptoms.  I am going to write a prescription for glasses.  Is this okay with you, buddy?" the doctor spoke warmly.

Danny nodded yes.

He picked out the frames he liked and had the prescription lenses placed in the frames.  He felt more at ease now...

...Until his classmates started making fun of him and the glasses he loved so much.  He no longer had headaches from poor vision, but now had headaches from his bullies at school.

The only friend Danny ever trusted was his dog, Boxer, a Boxer breed he simply named Boxer.  They played together.  They took naps together.  They truly were inseparable.  Boxer was very protective of his family - especially Danny.  Boxer was never afraid to show off his breed's natural boxing nature when he felt his family was in need of guarding.

On this Halloween, Danny chose to look like a tough guy boxer.  As he left his home to go trick or treating, Boxer trotted alongside.  Danny felt safe.  He was a tough guy tonight.  His trusted companion was with him.  And he could see clearly with his favorite glasses.  He enjoyed his favorite holiday of the year...

...Until the bullies approached him and started saying mean things that this time made him cry.  When this made them keep going with hurtful words, Boxer showed off his breed's boxing nature.  His companion needed him now more than ever.

Boxer raised his body and began making boxing motions as if he was in a boxing ring.  He also growled.

"Okay, okay!  We're sorry!  We'll never be a bother again!"

The bullies ran away and never bothered Danny again.

Danny and Boxer had quite the story to tell for some time to come.

Heart of Gold

Dean was not well on this beautiful summer day.  He was not well for some time.  He called in sick every day and found any way to not go outside his apartment, let alone his apartment building.  He lived alone and kept in touch with the outside world by phone and email.  He just refused to go out.  This made him sad, but but he did not know what to do because he did not know what exactly was wrong with him.

One day, Dean came across an advertisement online for telemedicine in psychiatry.  What is telemedicine, he thought to himself.  He explored the doctor featured in the ad.  She specialized in anxiety and depression with additional treatment in phobias, especially agoraphobia.  What is agoraphobia, he thought to himself.  The doctor's website stated the definition of agoraphobia as extreme fear of being in public or crowded places, leaving one's home, or being in places from which escape is difficult.  This fear causes intense panic and helplessness.  This phobia is generally self-diagnosed, there is no cure, and can last for years or lifelong.

"Hmm.  This sounds familiar," Dean thought out loud.

He wrote down every emotion he felt when he looked outside.  He wrote down every reason he considered to not leave his home.  He wrote down the contact information for the doctor.

The next day, Dean called Dr. Carol Sands for an initial diagnosis by phone.  He was very detailed with his symptoms.  Dr. Sands knew immediately what Dean suffered from - Panic Disorder and agoraphobia.  As of the initial consult, they spoke by phone weekly for care and therapy.

Knock, knock

"Who is it?" Dean called out.

"Hi Dean!  It's Rick!"

Dean opened the door to a rather shocking surprise.

Rick trained dogs for service to disabled people - whether physical or psychiatric.  He was close with Dean and knew Dean had not been well for quite some time.  So he had an idea.

"Dean, I would like to introduce you to Jules.  She is a one-year-old Golden Retriever.  I have been training her for psychiatric service.  She is especially helpful for those with chronic anxiety and fear.  Now, I'm not saying..."

Dean was not listening to Rick because he was so engaged with Jules...outside of his apartment.

"You can keep her if you want."

"Really?!"

"Yep, but on one condition.  Let her do her job for your condition."

With those words in mind, Dean did exactly that.  He took Jules outside everyday for necessary exercise and potty breaks.  He took Jules to the local park to play.  He took Jules to public places that must allow service dogs.  He went out.

With the help of Dr. Sands and Jules, Dean began a slow but certain recovery from his agoraphobia and Panic Disorder.

Jules truly had a heart of gold.

Lauren the Bulldog

On this Christmas Eve,

Snowflakes filled the air.  The cold frosted the windows.  The fresh Evergreen tree was rich with ornaments and sparkling white lights.  Houses along the block were decorated on the front lawns and lined with colorful lights.  Fireplaces flickered with wood-burning flames, leaving a lasting intoxicating aroma through the chimneys.  Carolers joyfully sang from home to home.  Some families opened their Christmas gifts on Christmas Day.  The Taylor family always chose to celebrate on Christmas Eve - a delicious dinner and dessert topped off with so many presents.  Santa gifts and stocking stuffers were enjoyed on Christmas Day.

Lauren Taylor was seven years old and put quite a stamp on her personality.  She was loyal and loving.  She was dedicated to her family.  She excelled in the second grade and in all activities because what defined her the most was her profound determination and sometimes stubbornness to complete every task she was given.

Lauren loved Bulldogs, especially English Bulldogs, because their personality was a lot like hers.  She was an only child and had only a few friends at school.  She wanted very much to have a companion just like her...just like the English Bulldog.  Her room was decorated with English Bulldog stuffed animals and bed linens designed with an English Bulldog pattern.  Lauren eagerly looked forward to this Christmas holiday because her mom and dad promised her a dog after her seventh birthday.

On this Christmas Eve, then...

"A puppy!  An English Bulldog puppy!  Thank you, Daddy!  Thank you, Mommy!"

"You have been so good this year, Lauren.  You are now seven.  You deserve your special wish.  Merry Christmas, honey," Lauren's mom said warmly.

Lauren happily looked to her father, who happily asked,

"What are you going to name your little one, sweetheart?"

"I think...Yes, I would like to name her Lauren."

"But that is your name!" Lauren's mom and dad exclaimed.

"I don't care.  English Bulldogs are just like me.  I want to name her Lauren," Lauren said in determined stubbornness.

"Lauren the Bulldog, huh?" Lauren's mom and dad supposed.

Lauren and her new pup were lost in loving play.

Welcome home, Lauren the Bulldog

Scottie Christmas

Dear Santa,

As you know, I am now ten years old and am in the fifth grade.  My writing is much better since you last read a note from me.  When I was six years old, I wished for a Cocker Spaniel puppy.  I will always remember that holiday year because you made my wish come true.  I named her Lucy and she is my best friend.  My Christmas wish this year is a Scottish Terrier to be Lucy's doggie friend.  I would like a Scottish Terrier because my new favorite movie is called "Scottie to the Rescue!".  Lucy is sometimes sad because she does not have a doggie friend to play with now that she is a little bit older.  I would like a Scottie to come to the rescue and cheer her up.  Please make my wish come true, Santa.

Thank you!

Sammy

Knock, Knock

"Come in!" Sammy called out as he finished practicing his cursive signature on the very important letter to Santa.  This letter would be his last because although Sammy could always believe in Santa, he simply was too old to write to Santa.

"Sammy, it's time for bed," said Sammy's dad.

"Okay.  Can I go downstairs to leave my note to Santa with the plate of cookies?"

"All right, but hurry up.  Santa is very busy on this Christmas Eve."

Sammy dashed out of his bedroom, raced down the stairs, and for the last time placed his letter to Santa Claus next to a delicious plate of chocolate cookies he always tempted to take.  "Those cookies are for Santa!" was the shout from Sammy's parents every year.

Once back in bed, Sammy's dad tucked him into his dog-themed bed sheet and comforter - a love that would never get old.

"Have I been good boy this year, Dad?"

"You are always good, my little Sam.  Now go to sleep."

The time was nearly midnight.  Sammy was fast asleep.  Gentle snow fell outside.  Sparkling Christmas lights twinkled in every home and in every front yard.  Peaceful silence.

Until there arose such a clatter - a noise he knew of once before...when he was six years old and met Santa.  Is Santa here again?

Sammy quietly got out of bed and opened his bedroom door, slowly walked down the staircase, and gasped a bit too loud.

"Well hello again, Sammy.  How are you?"

"I - I'm okay."

"I read your letter, Sammy.  Your handwriting and spelling are excellent!"

"Thank you, Santa!  I know I made a lot of mistakes with my last letter."

Santa lightly laughed and said,

"That is okay.  You were just learning."

"Santa, I have to tell you something."

"What's up?"

"Well, I cannot write to you anymore.  My mom and dad said that I am getting too old to write letters at Christmas time."

"Sammy, I will always be with you in spirit.  You never have to feel sorry for not writing to me...In fact, do you see that round, blue and white striped box?"

Just like Lucy, Sammy excitedly thought to himself as he dashed to the mysteriously moving box.

"It's a Scottish Terrier puppy!"

Goodbye, Sammy.  You will always be a good boy.

Santa magically disappeared for the last time he would visit and honor Sammy's Christmas wish.

When she heard a happy bark coming from downstairs, Lucy ran down to see a new addition to the family.  She would have a doggie friend!

"Lucy, what do you think of Scottie?"

Lucy happily barked.

Sammy, Lucy, and Scottie played for a long time until they all fell asleep as the sun rose on the best Christmas Sammy would ever have.