Monthly Archives: July 2017

That’s a Big Tail.

(The vid gets brighter.) Josie O greets Angel Joe after he’s ridden his bike home from work. Usually she stretches out her back legs when he holds her up. Didn’t do it. But you do get a brief look at “wavy paws.” She turns into a soft marshmallowy thing by the end.

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In Defense of the Puppy Purse

FundleQuarterUnzipped.jpg

This is a Fundle. Pricey but awesome. I got mine on sale.

Until you’ve owned a 3.5 pound dog, you don’t appreciate how often you need to get it off the ground. I’m not saying you shouldn’t walk your dog. Obviously you should walk your dog. But there are times when there are reasons not to. Rather than ramble on about how people don’t ask parents why they have their kid in a stroller, I’m just going to list some of these reasons.

  1. You’re in a crowded area (such as a Farmer’s Market), and you don’t want your dog to get stepped on. Because that could kill it.
  2. The ground is dirty/muddy/full of chemicals, and you don’t want your tiny dog licking all that crap off her paws and burdening her organs with toxins. Because that could kill her.
  3. You’re in an area where you know there may be big dogs off leash. Because they could kill her (even by trying to play).
  4. You’re in an area where coyotes may come out of the bushes. (Do I need to say it?)
  5. After a walk, you’re going to a store where they wouldn’t want the dog on the ground, but it’s too hot to leave your dog in the car. Usually store people won’t say “boo” if you’re wearing your dog.
  6. Hot pavement.

Another thing people like to joke about is how unhappy Chihuahuas (in particular) look when they’re in a purse. Here’s the thing: all Chihuahuas have “resting boredom face”. If you see a Chihuahua with a big open grin on it’s face, it’s because that dog is warm. Like many animals, Chihuahuas’ mouths naturally turn down when they’re closed. Ever seen a rabbit look overjoyed?

It’s the same principle. In addition, Chihuahuas squint to show pleasure and affection. The combination of downturned mouth and squinty eyes makes them look bored and unhappy, when they’re actually content.

Finally, many people don’t understand the temperament of companion dogs. These aren’t shepherding dogs. They don’t long to dig, or retrieve, or run, or fight. They were bred to love humans to an extraordinary degree, and all they want is to be with you. That kind of love is like the best drug in the world. Until you experience it, you don’t understand the impulse to have it everywhere, and that includes the post office. Especially the post office.

One final thing. A dog that is relaxing in a sling or purse, not making any noise or attempting to get out? That’s a well-behaved dog.