Pet Smarts

The generosity of the Kinker family pets never ceases to amaze me. After we pay the mortgage and utilities for our home and buy them dog food, our three Chihuahuas (from a local dog shelter) allow us the pleasure of living with them in their world of a modest suburban tri-level split house. Occasionally, we are rewarded with infrequent dog kisses (affection) from one of the three dogs, Chico, Rosco, or Lola.

Before I was accustomed to the way of Chihuahuas, I felt they were glorified brown rodents with “Mickey Mouse” size ears and an ear-splitting yap. We’ve lived with our canine family for some time now. We’ve become close as a blended human/dog clan. The things that are negatives have become endearing qualities. Chihuahua accidents and shedding hair are never precious in my sight. Both are things that need banishment from a dog owner’s life. (The joy our canine children bring our family’s daily life is well worth any minor inconveniences they may cause.)

Each dog in the family bonds with their chosen human that best fits their personality. (The dog made the choice.)  Lounging on top of (or next to) the appropriate owner seems to be one way our canines show love. Dog kisses are a confusion of the mind. In one way you desperately desire them. On the other way, you know the putrid breath that comes with the kiss.

My family is fascinated with the intellect of Chico, Rosco, and Lola. How Lola has learned to open a closed canine cage when it’s time for the Kinker family exit? How does Rosco know exactly what to do when my daughter is occasionally depressed? What makes Chico whine when he knows mom’s car has just arrived in the garage (from work)?

If you would like to read more about the life lessons my three Chihuahuas have taught me, check out my book, Dear God, Please Make Me the Person My Dogs Think I Am: The Chi Lessons. (Check out the online bookstore at PublishAmerica.)