Oso

If you had to call central casting in search of a junkyard dog, they would send Oso.

Seamus has already blogged about his background -- a rescue dog from the streets of Guatamala with irritable bowel problems. He has a torn ear, a scar on his nose, and six stitches in his side where a growth was recently removed. So it was with some trepidation that I approached this animal. (I know some of you will not believe that last sentence -- moi, who falls in love with almost anything with four feet and a tail). I decided to simply observe the dog's actions, especially around Yarden. And here's what I found out.

Oso is smart. He stays in the enclosed back yard all day. He doesn't bark. He follows the shade and digs holes to keep himself cool.

Oso is loyal and affectionate. He is allowed in the house when Seamus is home, and follows him everywhere. He seems to understand that Yarden is the priority in this house and doesn't try to take attention away from her.

Oso likes a routine. Seamus feeds him, walks him, and cleans up after him every morning and night.



Sometimes Seamus and Yarden find some time to catch up on their reading.

Oso is learning. A dog trainer has donated her time to work with Seamus and integrate Oso into their family life. He is learning to stay down. Perhaps soon he will learn that pushing out the screen in the bedroom window is not an acceptable form of egress. Use the door, please.

So my feelings after one week of life with Oso is to give this dog a chance. He is a survivor with a good personality and some stomach problems. In time I think he will win us all over. And he is still ugly.