J.J., the Fierce Chihauhau

Our little chihauhau, J.J. came to us after my dad passed away. My parents had got him from a family who said J.J. didn't get along well with their grandchildren. J.J. was about four (we thought) when Mom and Dad took him in. I think they had him about two or three years before we got him.

See him "begging"? This was the only trick he knew and it served several purposes. Not only did it mean, "give me a treat", it also said, "please pick me up and cuddle me", and it also meant, "Let me outside. Now!"

He was a recliner buddy, that was his favorite place other than his chosen person's lap. (I became his chosen person when we took him in.) Nothing made J.J. happier than to sleep in the recliner with you pressed securely by his side. He was also a fierce watch dog, and one day when a Rottweiller dared to step foot in our yard, J.J. took off like a shot. I figured he was a goner for sure, but the Rottweiller appeared really confused at the black rat that snapped at his paws like a weedeater. We managed to get J.J. inside and shooed the Rottweiller off, but it was a scary moment.

He and our beagle, Isabelle, got along well together for the most part. Both being adult dogs, they were well past their puppy-playing years, so they could snooze together in the sun for long periods without disturbing each other's "space".

One time when we were at the vet's, I became irked when another man brought in his dog, took one look at J.J. and remarked, "Boy, he's never missed a meal." I decided to pretend the fellow wasn't even in the room!

J.J. was a terrific companion, and so incredibly loyal. I'm so thankful he came to us and enriched our lives with his unique personality and enduring love.

copyright 2009 by L.M. Thomas