I’m no dog expert

I’m no dog expert

Lately, that four-word statement has become my mantra.

In 2012, I decided to train a dog for Therapy Dog service. I’d never trained a dog but, with a lot of professional help, it has turned out well.

I enjoyed writing about all my adventures, including the misadventures. Time passed, and I wrote down more than 100 stories.

I learned a lot about myself and about my dog’s behavior. Dogs because although I started with one dog (Bernie), I acquired a second dog (Chris).

Two different dog breeds, two distinctly different personalities.

Now, after almost five years, I am still finding out my mantra.

I’m no dog expert.

The photos are my evidence.

Today is July 8, 2017. These photos were taken at 3 p.m. 

   The correct temperature at my home registers 120 degrees. For all I know, it could be a bit higher. That is just as high as the needle registers. 

Now, here is Bernie.    I want to point out a few items. Yes, that’s Bernie seemingly enjoying himself in 120-degree heat.

What I want to point out is the nice fake grass rug that I purchased and personally laid to provide him a comfortable place. Also, that dark patch is the shadow of the shade. It is a gardener’s plant protection tarp. I hung that to protect Bernie and Chris from the razor piercing sun ray of Arizona’s summer.

Notice that Bernie is not taking advantage of all my efforts to protect him.

Now, here’s Chris.    Yes, he’s parked himself on my unmade bed. He’s enjoying the air-conditioned 82-degree breeze in the bedroom.

At 3 p.m. one dog is outside in 120-degree heat in the full sun, and the other dog is enjoying the cool air condition bedroom.

I shake my head and mutter my mantra… I’m no dog expert.