Sir Chance A-Lot's Dad

Chance loves his dad.  They spend a lot of time together.  Dad is always petting his "Little Buddy" and they have a unique language of their own.  I refer to them as Gilligan and the Skipper.  Dad can't move and his little buddy is beside him.  Chance also knows that he can many treats from his big buddy.  

We were watching W-Five tonight and it was about soldiers coming home from Afghanistan suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and how 37 stray dogs have been trained for these heroic men.  It was interesting how the dogs are there for emotional support.  When a commercial came on I laughed as Chance was sitting between us and we were both stroking him.  I personally believe that dogs offer therapy in many many ways.  I don't know who needed who most:  did the dog need us, or did we need him?  he has been the cause of much laughter, and he always licks away my tears.

It has been difficult with the kids all grown and they have all left the nest.  Getting older is a struggle for both of us.  Chance does fill the void, and helps with the emptiness.  I thought we were doing the right thing for the dog when we bought him into our home and lives, but I think the reverse is probably true. There's a tremendous amount of personality and vitality packed into his little body.  

Sir Chance A-Lot and Oscar resting on the couch.  They do about 15 heavyweight boxing rounds each and every day.  They can each hold their own.  I have been wanting to videotape them, but when I get the camera of course it stops.  They sure look peaceful, proper and gentle in this picture.  If only!  These two bullies wear me out.

Oscar, AKA fat cat came to us three years ago.  He belonged to our daughter and her boyfriend.  Oscar is from Fort McMurray, Alberta.  Our daughter came home for a break and of course, the cat came too.  She lived home for a bit before her return to Alberta, and Oscar stayed behind with us.  There was no way I was willing to let him leave and go back to living in an apartment, being alone when he really liked living here in this zoo.  I guess it's time for me to be honest, here it is:  I like the Fat Cat.  There, I said it!  Oscar has become a great companion for Chance.  They sleep together when no one is looking.  

I am a good boy!

I am the better boy!  

Chance is curled up on my bed pillows waiting for me to join him.  He's keeping a close eye on me at the moment.  He is like a child in some ways, he appears to be so innocent, especially when asleep.  How can this innocent little dog be so disruptive?  He is the center of the universe, or so he believes; therefore all things must revolve around him.  The consequences for not following this golden rule are never pretty.  Slippers, toys (never his), shoes, always the right foot, and whatever he can find is his to do whatever he desires.  

November 23rd of last year after Chance was with us for just 6 weeks we had him neutered and he needed a tooth pulled.  Our daughter was home to visit as it was my birthday and her Dad was recovering from a stroke.  Chance was a great comfort to me at that time.  

He was totally stressed out and when we got  him home and I had to take him to bed, lay between the sheets and cuddle and sing to him until he relaxed enough to go to sleep.  We both needed to relax at that point.  Poor baby!