Category: humor

Remembering the One Who Got Away

As Garth Brooks's memorably sang, "Sometimes I thank God, for unanswered prayers." We went to the shelter to adopt Shadow, but Pettigrew is the dog who came home with us. We got lucky.

The Parable of the Too Small House

Counting my blessings: things are much easier now that Pettigrew is healthy again. Sometimes it takes a disruption to appreciate what you have.

The Command I Never Tried to Teach Is the One Pettigrew Knows the Best

When I say, "Grandmom and Pop Pop are here," Pettigrew charges the back door. If only I could claim credit for training him to do this! But Pettigrew knows that phrase means a guaranteed dog treat and the chance to lick Grandmom's tasty hands.

Jumping the Gun -or- The Case of the Impatient Optimist

A perfect storm is brewing to thwart my efforts to restore Pettigrew's stomach: Pettigrew's belief that he in entitled to people food paired with my husband's eagerness to see a cure when Pettigrew is merely having a good day.

Pettigrew Persists: Honoring An Indomitable Spirit

Despite two months of a bland diet, Pettigrew's undaunted in his hopes for more. After all, food is the spice of life!

Pettigrew’s Pals: A Reactive Dog Makes Friends

During my school years, my friends were people with whom I had classes or shared the same extracurriculars. As a single twenty something my new friends came from my work and roommates. And then as a young mother, it was largely through my boys’ activities that I met other parents. Now it's Pettigrew who serves … Continue reading Pettigrew’s Pals: A Reactive Dog Makes Friends →

Affronts to a Dog’s Dignity

It takes a special dog to keep his poise when forced to don the cone of shame. Even Pettigrew was challenged.

The Gauntlet is Dropped

Pettigrew's untimely arrival in the kitchen fills me with dread. In his eager body lies a veiled threat: If you don't take me for a walk now, I can't be responsible for my actions