Advice on Pets, Life, Love
Hello dear readers, happy holidays. There is nothing like dog company during the Christmas season when things are holly and jolly. In the South End, the Polka Dog Bakery—an "Ask Dog Lady" favorite place for years—is at 256 Shawmut Ave. Stop by and pick up treats and toys for your angel. And don't forget to bring angel with you. Dogs are most welcome inside the store.
In celebration of the season and our dog darlings, Dog Lady thought it might be fun to reprint some of her favorite questions—and wise answers—that have appeared in this column through the years. All the questions—and the wise answers—are guaranteed to be real.
Dear Dog Lady,
'Tis the holiday season and being in a festive mood I bought my dog Max (a 75-pound pitbull/Lab mix) a pair of reindeer antlers. His coloring is such that he truly looks like a reindeer with them on, not to mention the fact he looks adorably funny. We got them at the pet store the other day and I made him walk home with them on. He did a great job of wearing them on the short walk home and didn't try to shake them off. When we got home, however, he gave me a look that said, "You owe me." My question: Do I owe him?
Brian
Dear Brian,
Your dog sounds like a sweetie—as if he'd do anything to please you. Dog Lady has a warm-fuzzy feeling from reading your note. You don't need the antler test to be reminded of your dog's devotion. At the very least, you owe Max a meaty meal, a tender tummy rub, and a long arduous outing—sans funny headgear.
Dear Dog Lady,
Do I get my girlfriend a pug puppy for Christmas? Her old pug died a couple of months ago about a month after we started going out. She has been really down ever since. I hope a new dog will cheer her up and make her feel good about us. She says she really wants another dog but isn't ready yet. I found the puppy online and put down a deposit.
Billy
Dear Billy,
Please understand you can't throw around a dog like a stuffed animal in order to get affection. Animal activist groups discourage puppy presents—unless the person giving the dog is prepared to assume all responsibility. Animal shelters are filled with cast-off puppies in January because, after the haze from the holidays fades, living dogs require work. They need to be fed, walked and nurtured.
Also, your girl might also feel cornered by such a grandly personal gif—even if she instantly fell in love with the dog. It would be as if you gave her a diamond ring with no plans to marry. She will feel bewildered by your expectations — or lack thereof. You must always give romantic gifts in tune with the emotional tenor of the relationship.
Dear Dog Lady,
I want my dog to have a wonderful Christmas present but I have no extra income. I can barely afford to buy food for Oscar (he's a mix of everything) so I don't want to spend money on treats or toys. What do you recommend?
Ray
Dear Ray,
Hearken back to the legend of a starry silent night so long ago. The animals gathered around a manger in a stable near Bethlehem and were peaceful. Let Oscar live in peace. Never yell at him. Show him respect. Just because he's a dog doesn't mean you should treat him like a dog. You are his leader not his dictator.
Always remember Oscar enjoys being where you are. Walking with you is your dog's great pleasure. Your pet does not care where you work, how much money you make, what treat you gave him yesterday. He lives for now. On this holiday, Oscar's joy in the present is the greatest present he gives you. You can give him an extra scratch behind the ears, a belly rub, and a murmured "good dog" for no reason.
Write askdoglady@gmail.com