The Brattons

Daniel has always been a fan of dogs. At least dogs in books. For the past month or so we've been staying with my parents while Ben works on finishing up his thesis, so Daniel has had the opportunity to get to know a real dog up close and personal.

 At first Fender was jealous of all the attention Daniel was getting from the people who were usually focused on petting him. We tried to explain that Daniel was a people-puppy and needed extra care because he was so young. That made little to no impact. 

Then Daniel started noticing Fender and calling out to him whenever he walked by. Fender would respond by sitting right next to him and turning his head in the complete opposite direction. "I am ignoring you. See?" Childish? Yes. Humourous? Also yes.

Then one day Fender was busy ignoring Daniel when the child began kicking him excitedly. Fender interpreted it as a vigorous petting and a beautiful friendship was born. Here is some footage from later that day:

Unfortunately this relationship was headed for some rocky times. Fender took upon himself the responsibility of guarding Daniel whenever he was napping. Guarding means barking very loudly whenever anybody walks by outside. He also wanted to lick him whenever he cried. So we said "Be quiet Fender! The baby is sleeping!" and "No Fender! Don't lick the baby!" And after about a week Fender said "Stupid baby. I'm going to sleep on his blanket and play with his toys." And we said "No!" And he said "Well can I at least have some dog biscuits?"

Then a couple of days ago I had just finished up a diaper change and was playing with Daniel on the floor. I was talking and he was giggling. And the dog walked up and sat on him. For serious. Really, Fender? He sat on him and then looked up at me and wagged his tail. Daniel said "Manamana?" I said "Fender! Get off the baby!" Fender wagged his tail again. Daniel started crying. So I physically removed the dog. Dumb dog.