As part of my "better neighbor" program, I am trying to be more accessible and helpful to my friends on my street who have always been there for me and my family when I worked, traveled and, especially, after my aunt (who lived with us and took care of the boys) died.
On Thursday, my neighbor S asked if I would take care of her little cockapoo dog for the weekend. At the last minute, she had to go to LA to see her daughter in a performance. The husband is in Florida watching their son who is playing baseball against the Red Sox.
Of course I said yes. This little dog is such a pleasure to be around. She's a "lady" with excellent manners.
The dog arrives on Friday morning. My neighbor gives me typewritten instructions and all the gear (bowl, food, snacks, gloves for picking up you-know-what, etc).
I notice two things about the dog since she last stayed with us: she's gotten older, as evidenced by the white around her nose and eyebrows and, she's gotten fatter.
My neighbor notices me assessing her dog.
"Yes, U has put on some weight. My husband spoils her with treats. Maybe you will be a good influence on her."
I know it's a dog, but the fact that someone thinks I may be of help to anyone or anything on the weight loss front is a huge compliment.
U and I went for hour-long walks Friday, Saturday and Sunday mornings. Instead of 4 treats per day, I gave her 3 (she did not seem to miss the fourth). Instead of putting hamburger on her kibbles, I put turkey.
I petted her lots and let her sleep in my room on a nice, soft mat (they forgot to give me her blanket).
About 30 minutes ago, the phone rings. My neighbor is back from LA (she took the red eye).
I get the dog all packed up and say goodbye.
The dog is happy to see her "mother." As they turn to leave, my neighbor instructs the dog to "give M a kiss goodbye."
The dog comes over to me and gives me a lick on the cheek. Her owner can't thank me enough.
Honestly, the pleasure was mine.
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