Facts About Dog Part II (also of about a million)

I've uploaded all the pictures I have of Eddie. There's one in there for size comparison. He's been sitting on my lap while I do it, nearly asleep. It's been a long day of park and dogs and people and new leash (courtesy of Carmencita and Alita) and vet (13.2 lbs., heart worm negative, tartar on his teeth, no ear problems and a squirmy, venomous hatred of being scrutinized)  and lots of vaccinations. He's got an appointment for neutering on Tuesday. I know that I have to remember that this one thing won't solve everything but I do feel as though we won't solve anything until it's done.

I had forgotten how free strangers are with their declarations and advice. I've been told how to treat him, what to teach him, what kind of dog he is, his age and (that perennial favorite) that neutering is a sign that one simply isn't being responsible with one's training techniques. On the up side I haven't given anyone a fat lip yet.

I think I'll start wearing a sandwich board. The front will have huge letters and it will say, "DISCLAIMER: I'm not really a small dog person, he just showed up." The back will be longer, "If I know you then I welcome and require your assistance and advice. If we're strangers you need to shut your fucking pie hole."