Somehow in the ensuing years Guinness, the dog became my constant companion. My daughter’s promises of walking, feeding and caring were abandoned within days, more spring snow. Three girls promised total care for the puppy. They didn’t mention who would be the provider. I stepped in for short term assistance that became a new daily responsibility for me.
Yes, the dog was named Guinness. The dog naming was the first intervention that I took. If I hadn’t this poor male would have been saddled with some cutesy moniker that would shame him when people asked his name. So Guinness it is, not because he is black with a white froth around his collar but because I like Guinness. He is actually mainly white with small bits of brown. A cute little fellow.
Guinness expects me to faithfully care for him and all his needs. He receives his food and dog treats when requested. He waits by the door for my daily walks and sits and stares waiting for me to pet him, pat his head or acknowledge him in some way. This took a curious turn when new neighbours moved into the house behind us. Our backyard is sheltered from any view of our neighbours by a high fence and hedging. A special time on hot summer days is for me to sit in the backyard. Rarely does this occur without some interruption from the phone, the door or family requests to do some important chore. One lazy day in July, Guinness joined me on the back deck. I had a cool drink, he had his water. I had peanuts and pretzels, he had his milk bone treat. I settled into reading a book, Guinness yawned and settled himself next to me under the table. I propped the book in front of me. The comfortable lounge chair, warm sun and gentle breeze had us both snoozing. Suddenly an ear splitting screech sounded through the yard. It was a cross between an out of control train braking on a mountain, a death scream of an enraged elephant and an air raid siren. I leapt out of my chair. Guinness bolted from under the table and ran as far from the sound as his little legs allowed. I surveyed the yard to see if some alien creature had landed. The horrible sound had ceased and I couldn’t fathom what was this incredibly maniacal sound. I searched for the source of this commotion. As peace settled Guinness slowly emerged from the farthest corner of the yard. He stared at me as if wondering what was going on. I was flummoxed but slowly a memory crept forward of my being told of the new neighbours having a blue and yellow Macaw that screeched terrifyingly and unexpectedly. I looked at Guinness and shrugged.
