27 comments/ 24701 views/ 3 favorites The Dog Talker Ch. 01 By: Dinsmore This is a fantasy on so many levels. Next time you are out shopping, think about your local adoptive animal shelter or Humane Society. Pick up an extra ten pack of paper towels and drop 'em off. Say hi to the animals; volunteer. Consider adopting. The Doberman Pinscher is an elegant, muscular and very powerful dog with a well proportioned chest, a short back and a lean, muscular neck. Its hard, short-haired, close-fitting coat comes in black, black & tan, blue-gray, red, fawn and white. Its teeth are strong and close in a scissors bite. Eyes are dark with a lively, intelligent expression. Its legs are perfectly straight. The Doberman's gait must be elastic, elegant, and cover a lot of ground. Bred for a century to be an outstanding guard dog, the Doberman Pinscher is intense and energetic with tremendous strength and stamina. Versatile and highly intelligent Dobes are very easy to train. They are determined, fearless and assertive, but not vicious. They are noble, loyal and affectionate with the family and like to be physically close to the family members. Devoted and watchful, this is a very people oriented breed. The Doberman needs an owner who is willing and able to discipline the dog without being afraid of him. All family members should learn to handle the dog properly, as Dobermans can be pushy if allowed to have their own way too much. The Doberman is naturally protective and does not need additional "protection" training to be a fine guard dog. He should be thoroughly socialized when young to prevent over-protectiveness. Mental stimulation is important for a truly well-adjusted and happy Dobe. The Doberman must be consistently and thoroughly trained to be a good pet. Training should be through positive reinforcement. Dobes can be good family dogs if of good temperament, well trained and raised with children from early puppyhood. They are at their best with experienced owners. Female Dobes are a little more stubborn to train than the male. The Doberman has been bred to work with man, and he needs this interaction often. They must be with the family and not abandoned to the backyard. *** "Mary, go ahead and schedule Shadow to be put down as soon as I get back from lunch." "He's such a handsome dog! A perfect specimen of the breed, albeit a bit larger than the show dog standard. Do we have any history on him?" "He's just a year old. We know that from neighbors and also were able to track him back to a breeder. The Animal Abuse Investigator was called out by the neighbors. The dog spent much of his young life tied up with a six foot rope to a stake in the ground in a small backyard often without food or water—until they just moved away and abandoned him. There's no report that he's ever bitten anyone but he comes across as extremely vicious. The investigator chose to dart him. Thirty inches and close to 100 pounds of snarling Dobie is enough to set anyone back on his heels. I think we all hoped he'd come around but to date no one has even been able to get close to him. He seems remarkably healthy considering how poorly he was treated---not that I've gotten close enough to do a thorough exam." "I always hate this part of the job. It's one thing when the dog is terribly sick, deformed or horribly injured but..." "Mary, this is a non profit animal shelter. We take in dogs from the dog wardens, abuse reports and surrenders. In short order we try to make them safe, adoptable pets. We're always short on kennels and we never employ euthanasia for space. There aren't really any bad dogs---just bad dog owners. Properly cared for, Dobermans are among the most gentle, sweet, loyal dogs on the planet. Abused, neglected, untrained and denied human family involvement and they go sour. They are exceptionally strong and to most people---scary. I don't like it any more than you do." "No one has been able to get close to him; our former contract dog trainer wouldn't even look at him." "Speaking of dog trainers, we have a new one coming in. I thought he was coming tomorrow but he contacted me last night and said he had a work conflict and it had to be today. Margie seems fine with Jack Russell Terriers and Beagles but she never seemed interested---nor competent---to handle the bigger dogs. I got a call from a former vet school classmate of mine about a guy he had worked with who recently moved to our area. My classmate raves about him. I'd really like to be here to meet him but duty calls and one of my duties is shaking down the Rotarians for money to keep this shelter open. He's coming in at noon---be a doll and show him around?" "No problem. I've got a couple of calls to make so I'll be here over lunch." *** "Welcome to the shelter. How can I help you? I'm Jan the---what is my title again? Administrative supervisor? Chief cook and bottle washer? Something like that." "Pleased to meet you Jan. I'm a dog trainer. Well, it's not what I do for a living, but your vet---Dr. Mason---went to school with a friend of mine and, ah, I'm new to the area and Dr. Mason and I have been exchanging emails and I promised to come by today. I'm sorry. Eric. Eric Wilder." "Dr. Mason left a note, Mr. Wilder. Our vet tech---Mary---was going to show you around. Unfortunately she is on the phone with a very generous board member and sponsor who can be somewhat long winded. Then another sponsor needs to be called back. I need to watch the phones until my daughter gets back from lunch. The dog and cat adoption areas are through that door to your right. The clinic and pre-adoption area is to your left. If you don't mind starting out on your own, I'll catch up with you in a few minutes." "Not a problem---please call me Eric." The cacophony of barks and howls always commenced as soon as the dogs nearest the viewing window detected a new visitor. To Jan's surprise, it stopped almost instantly. Fifteen minutes later, she caught up with Eric Wilder as he was completing his rounds of the twenty-six individual kennels. All of the dogs were sitting or lying quietly at the front of their kennels. To her surprise she noted that Eric did not appear to have any treats in his hands. "Did you get a chance to see the cats?" "Jan, I'm not much of a cat person, in fact most cats make me sneeze and I forgot to take an antihistamine." "What sort of training technique do you use, Eric? We've always tended toward positive reinforcement rather than punishment or negative stimuli here. No choke collars, shock units or prongs and whatnot." "I suppose I've used a variety of techniques over the years, although I'm not much for fads. Positive, food based training is certainly appropriate in the shelter environment. It's pretty easy to train handlers and volunteers and get some engagement from the pups fairly quickly. One of my dogs will do anything you want her to do on a three chain Martingale but in her case the forty dollar German surgical grade stainless is really her 'bling' and she gets very annoyed when she isn't wearing it. Then again she is only leashed because the law requires it. She listens very well. I have another that hates regular collars and is a perfect gentleman on a neck/nose collar. Dogs are fascinating. Some like the female I mentioned are easy to communicate with. Others, less so." "The Dog Whisperer?" "A little too faddish for me. Good marketing, though---he sells a lot of books. He doesn't do much with puppies and I think 'whisperer' is just marketing hype since I don't think he really can talk to dogs." "Can you talk to dogs, Eric?" Jan asked feeling almost foolish doing so. "Some of them---but not all of them. It's not really talking. I know this probably sounds a little crazy but it's more mental telepathy; Barbara Woodhouse spoke of it often. Sadly, it only seems to work with a small percentage of them and it's more images than complete thoughts. Dogs certainly communicate with each other but even that communication is very limited among most canines. Most dogs have very simple minds. Then again, a small handful are astoundingly bright." "Well you certainly seem to have calmed this group down---any talkers here?" "The big slobbering Rotty on the other side is quite the talker. Right now he's pretty much the anointed leader in here. Once you engage him the other dogs follow his lead. There is probably nothing he couldn't do---be trained to do, I mean. My complements to your staff and volunteers. The kennels are spotless and all the pups have clear water and fresh food. All of these dogs have good traits and personalities and should have no problem finding a happy home." "Well, over in pre-adoption we have dogs that aren't ready for the public. Some are recovering from surgery or illness but a few are just not ready for prime time." "Well, I guess that latter group is what I'm here for. Lead the way, Jan." In fact all but one of the dogs in pre-adoption that day were there recovering from surgery or illness. Only one was there because he was not considered safe. In fact, the determination had been made that Shadow would never be safe in human company. "What's this handsome lad's prognosis, Jan?" "Not very positive, I'm sorry to say. I believe Dr. Mason will be putting him down after lunch. Oh, damn! The phones are ringing off the hook—always do over lunch." "Mind if I stay here and chat with Shadow?" "Be my guest but I would urge you to do so from this side of the cage." "Of course." He knew the signs...he'd picked up the fleeting thoughts from the younger woman. His days---hours and minutes---were numbered. So much pain...his entire head throbbed with pain...had for so long...as long as he could remember. Death...wasn't afraid to die...life had been short and certainly not sweet...the end of the pain. This one...a new face...smiling at him...give him a good snarl...go down fighting...not trying to talk to him, that was a relief. Clear his head enough to reach out with his mind to see if this human had any thoughts worth gleaning. Something...what? Something there... "You're so very beautiful! So noble and majestic! I apologize to you for the life you have been provided by uncaring and ignorant people. I'm reaching out to you, my young friend with every fiber of my being...are you one of them? Are you a talker? Talk to me Shadow or whatever you're name is! Tell me of your pain...help me understand...please...help me understand...time is of the essence." What the hell? His mouth is closed...his lips aren't moving...not that I'd understand that gibberish anyway...I must be dreaming...hallucinating. People can't communicate with us---hell, most of us can't communicate with us. He wants me to reach out to him...why? What's the use? It'll all be over soon enough. "It doesn't have to be over---doesn't have to end...your life, I mean. I believe you were put on this earth for a purpose. Talk to me Shadow...make me understand." Pain...so much pain...makes me crazy...the pain makes me so crazy. "Where's the pain, Shadow? Tell me where the pain is." My head...my head is throbbing...never stops...what's he doing...opening the cage...maybe I could surprise him...run over him...escape...but no escape from the pain... "May I touch you, Shadow? If I touch you and it hurts just tell me and I'll stop. Maybe we can find out what's causing the pain together." It's been so long since I let one of them touch me...strong but gentle hands...feels good...I've missed it for so long...ouch! What the hell was that? "There! I felt your pain. On the right side of your jaw way back. I need to put my fingers in your mouth now, Shadow...need to feel around back there...find out what's happening. A whimper...you didn't even have to think it...it's right there, isn't it? The center of your pain...right there." You're damn right! "Okay, I know this is uncomfortable but there is something jammed in their between your gum and your back molar that doesn't fit any dog anatomy I know. There is a major nerve bundle back there and something is pressing against it. I can feel it...can't tell what it is...a shard of bone? A tooth that shouldn't be there? A stick? What?" She's coming---the younger woman. She's coming! "Stay calm, big fellow...let me handle this...you stay calm!" "What in the world are you doing in there? That dog is scheduled for euthanasia in less than hour. No one is supposed to be in there with him!" "You must be Mary the vet tech; I'm Eric---the dog trainer. Mary, did Shadow get a full oral exam when he was brought into the shelter?" "We couldn't even do a decent cursory exam on him. Since the abuse investigator hit him with the tranquilizer dart we didn't want to risk doing again so soon---not to mention the fact that we have a very limited supply of those very expensive darts. No parasites...no obvious injuries or deformities." "Just as I thought. Okay, Mary, I need a portable exam light and a pair of eight inch forceps---preferably a pair that still has a decent bite left on its jaws. There's something back here---my gut says it's a long shard of bone which is pressing on a nerve junction. I can feel it. When I move it ever so slightly it sends a searing pain all through his head." "Are you a veterinarian? I can get you a syringe and we can try to sedate him. You're closer than anyone else had ever been to him." "Mary, he knows he's scheduled to die shortly. I believe a syringe at this stage would scare him beyond belief. Just get me a light and the forceps." "He knows? Okay." "She's going to have to come in here with us, Shadow. I need her to hold the light. And then I'm going to have to force your jaw open farther than is comfortable---while she holds your lip back---and see if I can get to whatever is back there." Will it hurt? I'm scared Eric...very scared. "Yes, but only for a few seconds---if you hold very still. If I can get a grip on it and pull it out. I believe---I don't know---but I believe your throbbing headache will be gone---or at least a hell of a lot better. Do you trust me?" Yes. I'll be brave. Thank you for your honesty. "I know you will....you're a very brave boy," he thought and said out loud as he held the big pup's head in his arms. Mary returned with the requested implements certain that the man in the cage with Shadow could not possibly be carrying on a conversation with the big pup. "I need you to hold the light, Mary---and pull his lip back. I should be able to hold his jaw open and work the forceps. I promise you he won't hurt you. He's not a bad dog---he's just in horrible pain and it has made him a little crazy. Hurry now before he loses his nerve---or I lose mine." I can feel it...it hurts...really hurts...it's moving...more pain...sharp pain...and...and...oh! The pain is gone...it's gone...you did it...it's gone! Thank you...oh, God thank you! "You're not done yet, big fellow. There's an infection in there---and abscess---I can smell it. A shot of antibiotic will knock it out in twenty-four hours and then you'll have to take some pills for a couple of weeks." Last time I checked I don't have a couple of weeks...not even a couple of hours. "Nonsense, Shadow! You are not going to die today." Eric said the words out loud as he thought them, much to Mary' surprise. He turned to her and spoke. "Abscess...needs a shot of antibiotic...can you administer it?" She was back in a matter of seconds with the syringe. How do I know that's not the final needle? "Now you're being a big baby, Shadow. I certainly didn't risk you chewing off my fingers so that I could trick you and put you down. How do you feel?" Better...much better! "It'll feel even better this time tomorrow and every day which follows. Now be a good boy and let the pretty lady give you a shot." Okay. "Mary, do you have any NSAID (Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drug---Aspirin or Ibuprofen in human pharmacology; while aspirin is safe for canines, ibuprofen can be fatal) we can give him for the inflammation and pain?" "That's not really something we can afford to keep here." "Okay...well, I have some Deramaxx™ in the car but I'd be breaking the law giving it to him without a prescription." "Dr. Mason wouldn't have any problem writing one after the fact. She's pretty easy to get along with in that regard. What are you doing with Deramaxx™ in your car?" "I'm not a vet or doctor. I work for a drug distribution company. My company distributes both human and animal drugs and I collect samples and soon to be outdated vet drugs to donate to charity vets and shelters. Has Shadow been outside today?" "Shadow hasn't been outside since he got here five days ago. No one could get a leash on him." "Mind if I take him with me to the car?" "I suppose not...you seem---he seems---to be very comfortable with you. I'll get you a leash." "I think he'll be fine without one. He's not going to run away or do anything he shouldn't. He trusted me to take his pain away. The least I can do is trust him. Come on big fella!" What's going to happen now? "You're going to get better. You're going to apologize to everyone you snarled at. You're going to come stay with me for a while and then..." And then? "Do you know what a service dog is? It's a dog who takes care of a human being who has been badly hurt and can't always take care of themselves. There's a special organization---Vet Dogs. Very special, very bright dogs are trained to help American military veterans who have been wounded in combat to live a more normal life. It is the highest calling---the most noble service---any dog can be chosen to provide. Your breeding is perfect---and we both know you are very, very bright. Would you like that? Would you like to be a life companion for a special human being who in turn will never let any harm come to you and will love you...like a brother?" I'd like that very much. To have a purpose...meaning...a reason to live...serving for someone who has served and sacrificed. But I'll miss you...miss talking to you. Nice car, by the way. "Thank you. Big fella, this particular veteran---a Marine---is very special. He lost his legs below the knees rescuing his combat dog from an Improvised Explosive Device. He lives here in the city...it's part of why I moved here...he's my brother. He has his own place but we're very close so we'll see each other often and have lots of opportunity to chat." Your brother...is he like you...is he a dog talker? "He is but not to the degree I am. He's never been around a dog like you 24/7. He doesn't completely believe it but he knows in his heart that he heard those words in his head---a plea for help---from his combat dog just before the bomb went off. But he has it---I'm convinced it runs in the family." The younger woman...the pretty one...she was very brave! I was not very nice to her...I want to apologize to her first...how do I do that? "You're a dog, Shadow! You have it much easier than we humans do. In your case, just go over to her when she invites you to, sit down in front of her, put your head in her lap and let her pet you. When she does, lick her hand---just a little, no slobbering." Eric and Shadow found Mary sitting at her desk with the chair facing away from her work area looking somewhat bemused. "Mary, Shadow feels very bad about how rude he was to you. He'd really like to apologize---and thank you for helping him with his pain. He won't come to you until you tell him it's okay. He's a very special dog." A few seconds later, Shadow sat at her feet and allowed her to scratch behind his ears. This feel really good, Eric! She is smiling...there are tears in her eyes. Why does making me feel good make her cry? "She's not sad; those are happy tears...tears of joy. You have a lot to learn about people---good people, Shadow...dog people. They will care for you, feed you, ensure that you stay healthy and give you a comfortable home in which to live. Many will even risk their lives for you and all they ask is that you let them love you and love them back. Having you near makes them feel safe and in return they will do their very best to ensure that you are always safe." The Dog Talker Ch. 01 I haven't had much experience with people like that. "I know that, dear, sweet Shadow but those days are over." "What days?" Mary asked. Eric had not realized that he had spoken out loud. "His days with bad people...cruel, inhuman people. Shadow was put on this earth for a purpose---not to die in a dog shelter in the Midwest!" "It's as if he understands every word you say." "He doesn't---not a word. Human speech is just gibberish to him but we all sense that dogs feel or react to our emotions. But he is a very rare one: he understands what I'm thinking—not just the emotion but the actual thoughts. Look. Mary I've probably studied more about dog training than anyone you've ever met. I'd planned to go to vet school but a war and an unplanned family put that out of reach. Most dogs are just dogs----pretty simple creatures with smooth brains the size of lemons. Shadow is that rare one---one in a hundred---a million? His type all too often end up in places like this because they are too smart to put up with abuse. I know what he is thinking---and he knows what I am thinking. He even picks up snatches from others, particularly those who are empathetic toward his species---like you. You may not be able to 'talk' to him but if you try really hard to focus on a single thought...try it." Mary closed her eyes and was silent for a moment. Shadow stood up, walked to the four drawer file cabinet across the room and carefully opened the second drawer with his teeth. Reaching inside, he found Mary's purse and carefully brought it back to her. "Thank you, Shadow!" She exclaimed. "Think it!" Eric said. She closed her eyes again. Shadow nuzzled her folded hands gently and licked her fingers. "Oh, my God! I don't believe what just happened!" "It would probably be best for all involved if we kept this episode as our little secret. No one would believe it anyway. Particularly since I wasn't sure that was going to work---it seldom has before. You have a gift, Mary. It's possible that if you worked on it you could take it to the next level---a real conversation. The Rottweiler on the other side is a real gabber." "You said that Shadow's ability is very rare---how do you train dogs that you can't communicate with?" "If I'm lucky, I find another dog that I can communicate with and I cheat---I use him or her as the go between. And even then, sometimes the communication is very limited---hardly complete thoughts just very basic images---like charades. Shadow is only the second dog I've ever met with whom I'm able to have very complex interaction. He's probably one in 10,000 or more. When all else fails I try every known dog training technique I know---which is most of them---until I find something that works. Many dogs can't even communicate to any degree among themselves. I do have a theory that in the presence of one like Shadow even the dullards get smarter." "Who is the other one---you said Shadow was the second dog?" "She's sitting at home anxiously awaiting my return, lording it over her three companions." Shadow barked. Eric turned to him. "We're talking without forming complete thoughts---he can't follow. He's a bit insulted. Let me bring him up to date." Eric was silent for a few moments as he communicated with Shadow. Then he turned to speak to Mary. "I'm going to speak slowly so that I consciously form whole thoughts which Shadow can follow. Mary, as weird as it sounds that I can communicate with dogs like Shadow there is something else even more weird. In the canine world, dogs like Shadow are royalty. Somehow they can communicate with each other even over some distance. My female, Samantha, whose ability to communicate rivals Shadow's---she sensed his presence here. I live twelve miles away. She's not sure why she sensed it, certainly didn't know his name or breed but somehow knew there was a special dog here at the shelter---a dog in terrible pain. I had planned to come to the shelter tomorrow; Samantha told me I had to be today---a real sense of urgency." "Can you read other peoples thoughts too?" Mary inquired. "Don't I wish! If I could do that I probably wouldn't have an ex-wife." "Dr. Mason will be quite surprised---and pleased---when she gets back. She doesn't enjoy putting them down any more than I do." "Are you familiar with Vet Dogs, Mary?" "Yes of course." Eric explained to Mary his intent for Shadow's future. "How long does the training take?" "It normally takes over a year. I've been part of the training for a dozen Vet dogs. Obviously in Shadow's case it will take less---significantly less---time. I assume there won't be any problem with me adopting Shadow?" "I pretty much call the shots around here on suitable adoptions. I'm sure we can waive the standard fee in view of what you've accomplished and Shadow's...destiny." "Nonsense! I'd planned to make a donation anyway. The adoption fee is not an issue." "Funny...I assumed we were going to be paying you for your services." "I do accept fees from private dog owners on occasion---when they can well afford it. In turn I always sign the check over to a local charitable vet or shelter. I make a very respectable living in the drug industry; I don't train dogs to make a profit." "I hear Dr. Mason's car pulling in." "Shadow does need a complete physical and blood work." "Dr. Mason can handle that...although we don't have a real lab." "Let me explain it to him." Eric went silent for a minute. What will the doctor do, Eric? Eric spoke out loud, slowly composing whole thoughts. "Listen to your heart, examine your ears, draw blood to be sure you don't have heart worms or any organ deficiencies, examine you for any masses or growths that shouldn't be there, check out your eyes and teeth and possibly x-ray your hips to be sure you don't have any hint of dysphasia." "Sadly we don't have x-ray equipment here, Eric. It's more than simply the cost of the equipment. We'd have to build a special lined room and have someone on staff with special training. We have a couple of local vets who help us out in cases of emergency." "I'll take Shadow to my regular vet---who I only met a few weeks ago---if there's any indication. Wait a minute!" Eric turned to Shadow and was silent as he communicated with him. Shadow laid down and stretched his hind legs out straight behind him. "Does that hurt at all, Shadow?" Not in the least. It feels quite pleasant. I sense the other ,older woman is close. Why did you have me do this? "A dog that can lie like that with no discomfort or joint grinding is unlikely to have any hip problems. Sit up for me now and let me check your knees." Dr. Mason came into the room just as Eric was checking for drawer sign in Shadows left knee. She was somewhat taken aback but recovered quickly. "I'm Virginia Mason and you must be Eric? Dr. Davis said you were a miracle worker but this is beyond comprehension." Mary quickly explained what had transpired and spoke of Shadow's future. I can sense fleeting thoughts from her---the older one. Kind thoughts...relief...joy. Another dog...one that looked like me...somewhere in her past...sadness...loss. "Shadow seems to believe that you may have once had a Dobe, Doctor---or been very close to one...one you had to put down?" "Hip dysphasia which led to chronic---debilitating, crippling and horribly painful---arthritis long before the days of modern miracle drugs. She was my first dog out of school. A sweet Dobie female named Thunder. She was only with me for six years and she was in so much pain near the end. I put her down myself. Today she would probably have lived twice as long with just medication. The university hospitals do total hip joint replacements almost routinely. Dr. Davis didn't tell me you were one of those---a dog talker." "You know something about---believe in it?" "After over thirty-five years in vet practice I guess I've seen it all. I sold a very lucrative practice a couple of years ago; I work here to keep busy and just help out. I've often sensed communication from certain dogs...more images than thoughts. I even did some random research. There's not a lot in publication since..." "Most scientists don't believe in telepathy let alone between species?" Eric injected. "Exactly! I've met a few like you over the years; few would openly admit to the gift but I knew the signs. Shadow...I tried to reach out but got nothing." "The headaches completely fogged his brain and dulled his ability to communicate. Additionally, Shadow didn't really believe so he didn't really try---until I came into his life." "Well, let's check this handsome young pup out and make sure everything is as it should me. We don't have a complete lab here so we can't do sophisticated blood workups but we can check for obvious things we can see under the microscope such as heart worms and other larger parasites. I'll draw a second sample and put it in a bag with ice so you can take it to a vet with a lab." Thankfully Shadow's medical exam showed no serious issues. He was too thin and his unclipped ears needed cleaning but beyond that he as remarkably healthy. "Well I'd better fill out the adoption papers. Unfortunately I have some responsibilities in my day job this afternoon so I need to get moving." Can I meet the other dogs---the ones on the other side? "Shadow would like to meet the dogs on the other side of the building. Would that be okay?" "I don't see why not. I'll get Jan to get the paper work going and take him over there myself." Mary said. The front office volunteers and staff were quite surprised when Shadow came through the clinic door walking calmly at Mary's side without a leash. He slowly approached each person and apologized for his previous behavior in that special way dogs do. While Eric filled out the paper work, Shadow met the other canines, spending the bulk of his time chatting with the loquacious Rottweiler. Mary and Shadow returned to the reception area as Eric was writing out a check which he handed to Jan. "Eric that's ten times the normal adoption fee. You've helped out so much that you don't need to..." "Jan, I make a good living; life had been very good to me. Both of my children are out of college and in their own careers. I don't have any vices other than canines. Just say thank you." "Thank you...thank you so much!" "How long has the Rottweiler been here---Buckeye?" "Too long." Mary said. "He's about the same age as Shadow, very sweet and very well mannered. He's also a big, black and to many people, scary looking dog...why?" "Shadow asked me if Buckeye might be a good candidate to become a Vet Dog or even a guide dog. Buckeye doesn't have the level of maturity that Shadow does---never will. He'll always be like that goofy cousin we all have that never really grows up but is a perfect citizen and gentleman. I saw it when I chatted with him. I'm not sure he'd ever have the discipline for guide or service work but he gives off a very happy, joyous vibe. He might make an excellent therapy dog. He's the kind of dog who just makes you smile." "Shadow asked you?" Jan inquired somewhat incredulously. "A figure of speech, Jan...or maybe just a gut instinct." "I see." "Can I put him on hold? I have a contact at the university hospital in pediatric oncology. There is a special training program for therapy dogs here in the state. It's different and less rigorous than service or guide dog training. I can make some calls when I get home later." "Buckeye is officially on hold." "I'll call you first thing in the morning and let you know." Mary accompanied Eric out to the parking lot with Shadow. "Did you ever think of becoming a vet, Mary?" "I started veterinary school but I had to drop out. No family other than a husband who was a better quarterback than husband and provider. Life got in the way. Dr. Mason is on the board at the university vet school. She pulled some strings to get me admitted as a part time student but instead of the typical three years it's going to take a lot longer." "I'm assuming said quarterback is no longer in the picture." "An accurate assumption." "If you could go full time, how long would it take for you to graduate?" "I'm down to my final year. I have more hands on animal experience---to include minor surgery---than any typical third year vet student but you still have to complete the academic work to get a degree as a DVM." "My company is pretty generous when it comes to scholarships---particularly for someone coming into their last year who has as much experience as you do. Would you be interested in something like that?" "There was a time when I'd jump at that kind of opportunity but I'd miss my work here. I get by---financially. With any luck I'll get my degree before Dr. Mason decides to hang up her spurs for good and probably spend the rest of my life here at the shelter. It may not be glamorous but it has its moments...today certainly providing one of the most remarkable ones I can recall. When will we see you again?" "Soon---I guarantee it! My schedule is pretty flexible. In all honesty well, I wasn't completely honest. I actually helped start the company I'm with. We're being acquired by one of the largest drug distributors in the world. Their headquarters is here which is the other reason I moved here in addition to my brother. I'll hang around for two years to help facilitate the transition and then in all likelihood be out of a job." "If I'm not being too personal---how old are you, Eric?" "Forty-nine...and you, Mary?" "You have almost exactly a decade on me, Eric." "I wouldn't have guessed." "You're too kind...and you carry your age quite well, I must say." "Thank you." "Where did you say you lived?" "About twenty minutes from here on the other side of the river." "Nice area." "We like it. Samantha is of the sled dog persuasion---she loves the cold winters and the snow. I'm still getting used to it." "Well, I'd better get back inside and get to work." "Mary...would you like to come to dinner? I'm a decent cook and I know my pups would love to meet you." "Well...I...don't want to put you out and..." "Mary, I don't know anyone here other than the people I work with and I don't want to see most of them outside of work." "Well...okay...if you're sure. How do I get there?" Eric reached into his car and grabbed a Google™ map. You just follow these directions backwards. I had to print this off to find the shelter. What time is good for you...six?" "That'll work...no, make it six thirty. Never get out of here at five and I'd like to go home and change. Although it would seem that I live more or less between the shelter and your home. Six thirty, then?" "I'll see you then." "I look forward to it." Mary's thoughts drifted as she sauntered back into the clinic. A man. Haven't had one of those in my life for some time. Not sure I want one. It's just dinner. He is kind of cute. He seems nice. He loves dogs...talks to them. Loves what I love. A friend...a friend would be nice...someone to talk about dogs with...just a friend. As Shadow and Eric drove off, Shadow's thoughts entered Eric's consciousness. You feel something for her...something more...is it love? Isn't that what you call it? "Too early for love, Shadow. She's a pretty girl. She likes dogs. She's single and I'm single. It's just dinner. Hopefully we'll be friends. Speaking of which we need to chat about my home environment. Shadow, you're a proud male Doberman Pincher who by breeding expects to assume the leadership role in the pack. The other dogs won't have any real problem with that for the most part---just try not to get heavy handed. "There is one exception---Samantha. I saved her life; she returned the favor---a story for another time. She is the alpha princess. She is going to be very excited to have a new companion with whom she can communicate but at the end of the day, like all princesses she expects a degree of deference. I like you Shadow but don't mess with my princess. Suck up to her and treat her with the respect she expects and deserves and everything will be just fine." I get the picture. I'll do my best. The meeting of the pups went quite well. After a brief conversation during which Samantha clearly delineated the pecking order, she and Shadow became fast friends bonding quickly in view of their shared gifts. Shadow in fact was quite smitten by the beautiful fawn coated sled dog. Both dogs quickly communicated to Eric that everything would work out just fine. Where does your brother live Eric? "He has an apartment in town. He's very independent and doesn't want to be a burden on his older brother. I, of course will have none of it. I have twenty acres here. I'm building a house for him on the other end of the property which won't be in sight of this house and will have it's own entrance but he'll be close. He's working on a graduate degree and hopes to get a job teaching full time at the university." So...you...and Samantha...will visit often? "I'm sure we will. The whole property is going to be fenced. You and Samantha may be smart enough not to wander off and get hit by a car but the other pups aren't. Enough property and wild life to keep things interesting for those of your species with a level of protection from those---human or otherwise---who might wish you harm. "Which brings up another subject. With your addition to this extended family there is probably no danger that the five of you couldn't deal with but people are ingenious and they have weapons---guns---and there are those out there who would do you harm. Some are just sick. Others would try to steal you and sell you for a quick profit. A simple rule applies here. If there is danger, you will detect it before my brother or I will thanks to your keen senses. Raise the alarm---but keep your distance. Your first action in case of danger is to tell me---or my brother once he moves out here---not try to deal with it yourselves. This is a very safe area with good neighbors, almost all of whom have dogs. Samantha understands the program." I understand. Thank you again. Thank you for saving my life. I hope to return the favor during my lifetime. "Take care of my brother, Shadow. Help him adjust to his loss. That's all you ever have to do to repay me. He gets depressed sometimes---just as you did when you felt there was no reason to go on. Look for those signs---probe for them and bring him back when he gets too close to the edge. Now go be a dog! I have some phone calls to make. One involving Buckeye and the other putting the squeeze on my CEO for the donation of a top of the line blood analyzer. As I recall he is a dog guy; it shouldn't be that hard to get him to spring for a few hundred thousand dollars worth of equipment." Buckeye was set up to be evaluated for use as a therapy dog the following week. Eric called the shelter and informed Jan. Eric genuine liked the CEO of the company which had acquired his company. He was not surprised when the only question he asked was where the lab equipment should be delivered. "We don't sell x-ray equipment Eric, but I do have some friends in that industry. My family and I volunteer at the shelter in our county but I've sensed of late that they're taking our generosity for granted and not always making the best use of the donations. We might just venture out into the country this Saturday and pay a visit." "I can't thank you enough, Bob." "Whether out of my personal pocket or the corporation charitable foundation, adoptive low kill dog shelters are a very high priority. Keep me posted on their needs. I'll call the President of our pharmacy division and see what he can do to help out. He has three dogs---all adopted or rescued." The Dog Talker Ch. 01 A few minutes before six, the phone rang. It was Dr. Mason. "Eric! What have you done? My personal physician doesn't have this state of the art technology in blood analysis. I'm not sure how we'll be able to afford the reagents, but...thank you!" "I meant to call you---had no idea they'd delivery the equipment today. You'll have all the reagents you need---as long as you need them." "Are there more surprises coming?" "Virginia, of that I'm sure. Don't know what or when but that was just one phone call. I've got a lot more numbers in my Rolodex---as does my boss. Drugs: don't know what's coming but hopefully it will be what you need." "Well, I'll let you know what arrives. Time to go home!" Promptly at nine o'clock the following morning a courier arrived with close to a hundred thousand dollars worth of drugs, all top of the line and far from out of date. Many were extremely expensive medications which were out of the financial range of many dog owners let alone a not for profit shelter. The portable refrigeration unit was installed early that same afternoon. The surgical instrument division of the company delivered a complete inventory of top of the line German surgical instruments a little after three that afternoon. The enteral and parenteral feeding division delivered a supply of liquid feeding formulas suitable for canines. Forty eight hours later following a call by the CEO, a well dressed young man approached Jan's desk. "Hi! My name is Jeff Walker and I'm the president of a company you've never heard of which fabricates portable x-ray vans. One will be arriving here in less than an hour. Shortly after that the power company will be here to run a special line at no charge. All I need to know is where you want to park it." "I think I'd better get Dr. Mason. Make yourself comfortable." "Mind if I check out your adoption area?" "Be my guest." Two days after that event, a pretty young third year vet student a few weeks from graduation showed up to schedule an interview for the recently listed veterinary residency program which no one knew anything about including Virginia Mason. She had a letter in her hand which indicated that should her qualifications be acceptable to Dr. Mason and the shelter board, the expenses associated with her tenure at the shelter were being funded by a corporate charitable foundation. Her academic credentials were impeccable. Even more important, she wanted to be a shelter vet. As an added plus, she had worked her way through vet school working as an x-ray technician. Two days after that, a truck driver came into the shelter and asked to speak to the director. The director came out to meet the driver and introduced himself. "How can I help you?" "I have a thirty-six foot trailer outside which belongs to you---or at least it's contents do. I think this is a copy of your wish list---got it off the net. The usual stuff: kitty litter, paper towels, disinfectants, bedding, towels, blankets, pet food...and so on." "Pretty standard stuff in our business." "So I gather. I volunteer at my local shelter back in Missouri when I'm home. Anyway, I doubt that you have room to store this stuff so I just need to know where to drop the trailer. When it's empty, call the number on this card and someone will come by and pick it up---and bring another one." "How much stuff have you got?" "The trailer is full, top to bottom and front to back." "Oh, my." Money can work miracles and all adoptive shelters need financial support but even more important, they need volunteers. People to answer the phone, send thank you notes, organize and direct fund raising activities, work with dogs, follow up on adoptions, foster adult dogs and care for puppies, mow the grass or just scoop poop. As stunned and thrilled as the shelter staff was by the size and financial means of Eric's Rolodex, they were not remotely prepared for the volunteer army which soon became a regular part of the shelter's day to day activities. Every shelter has a huge book filled with volunteer applications but on any given day only a handful of people actually show up. Too often they have to depend on community service personnel---people who got a DUI and are working it off doing community service work---to exercise the dogs. Many of these types are worse than no one at all and have to be closely supervised. Few are willing to do dirty work and if they are they don't do it very well. Then again, at my shelter there is a woman who is a senior vice president of one of the fifty largest companies in the world who drops by regularly just to scoop dog poop in the exercise yard and talk to the pups. If you've never run a charitable, not for profit, volunteer organization it can be a daunting task. You can't fire volunteers. Some don't feel a sense of need to be punctual or even remotely reliable or consistent---after all, they're not getting paid. Spend a few hours a week volunteering at a dog shelter and you will find it impossible to show up empty handed, even if it's just a few rolls of paper towels or a box of 55 gallon can liners. Look around; if there is something broken, old, or just on it's last legs---offer to replace it or even better---just do it. The new wave of volunteers came with big hearts and open pocketbooks and wallets. One in particular serves elaboration. A retired gentleman in his sixties came to the shelter for a volunteer orientation and then for a dog training session. He never said much but was always pleasant and cheerful. The dogs loved him. If a door was falling off it's hinges, he fixed it. If paint was peeling, he scraped it and repainted it. He became a regular fixture around the shelter, coming by almost every day for a couple of hours. He drove a nondescript old truck. It was assumed that he was retired from some sort of construction work and did handyman work in his retirement years. One day the chairman of the board of the shelter was meeting with the paid director as the old gentleman was getting ready to leave. The director thought it appropriate to introduce the chairman of the board to the man. "Harry, have you met our board chairman?" "Can't say I've had the pleasure, Rick." "Denise, Harry is one of our most dedicated volunteers; he's here almost every day...works with the dogs...fixes whatever needs fixing..." "I'm honored to meet you, Harry. I'm Denise Mathis. Thank you for your dedication to our shelter." "Don't mention it. I enjoy it and it's not as if I have anything else that pressing on my calendar. I'm glad I got to meet you. Just for the record, how much of the land around the structure does the society own?" "This shelter was made possible by a bequeath almost thirty years ago. We have just over thirty acres deeded to the shelter in perpetuity. Why do you ask?" "Is there any reason you've never enlarged or replaced the original structure---other than money? The clinic is awfully small and heaven knows there isn't enough storage space. I know adding more space could end up meaning more staff but in spite of the Herculean work being done by this shelter and the rescue organizations in the area---a lot of dogs still end up being turned away...or worse. The dog warden---I think that's what they're called in this part of the country---tells me he could be sending you several hundred more dogs each year---if you could handle them. The foster care group is already overwhelmed. Plus the adoption area is old, dark and hard to clean and the HVAC system is on its last legs. I guess I'm asking if there are any legal or zoning issues which would preclude building a new, modern, larger facility?" "None whatsoever. We are out in the county well away from residential areas and have an excellent relationship with county officials. A couple of years ago we actually had an architect draw up plans and drawings of our 'dream' facility. We established a fund to build it. A the end of the year if there is anything left over from donations, it goes into the building fund." "May I see them? The plans and drawings?" "Certainly! Rick?" Harry studied the plans and drawings in silence for several minutes. "Unfortunately, building cost go up every year and I'm sorry to say we probably don't have ten percent of the money we'd need to begin construction." Denise observed. "What was the original estimate?" "Well it's several years old but close to two million---probably more today." "What do you have in the fund?" "Last time I checked less than three hundred grand. " "How would you award a building contract---bid it out?" "Probably but we do have several builders in the county who are sponsors of the shelter who would work together to keep the costs to a minimum. We'd probably have an estimating firm give us a firm figure just to ensure that we're being treated fairly and then spread the work among our builder/sponsors so that no one builder would have to absorb the whole thing and each one could work it into their normal building schedules." "The way this county is growing these plans are too small. It needs to be half again the size which with today's building costs probably says three million, give or take. Piece meal construction can cause all sorts of problems---and delay construction which is not good news in this part of the country with a building season limited by the climate." "That's certainly true." Rick injected. "When is your next board meeting?" "Actually, it's tonight but our meetings are not open to the public---although we always make exceptions for diligent volunteers." "Good---not that I want to disturb your board meeting. Look, the plans are obsolete and from the research I've done on current kennel technologies it's lacking on that front. Folks, I don't want my name on the door nor am I interested in being a member of another board of directors..." "Another board of directors?" "I retired as chairman two years ago. Stayed on as a board member and an honorary something or other. I sit on several other corporate boards. Almost went nuts until I discovered this place---damn sure drove my wife crazy." "Chairman of...?" Rick inquired. Harry answered with a single name; it was the name of one of the largest commercial building corporations east of the Mississippi. Denise and Rick were speechless. "Look, Denise---Rick. I'll build the thing to current specs, everything energy star rated and state of the art. I'm even thinking geothermal, wind and solar in view of our weather. Use the fund you have to furnish it and add some amenities for the staff and volunteers. I'll squeeze my board for some corporate foundation money and twist the arms of the other board members---either out of their pockets or their own corporations. I'll make up any shortfall out of my pocket. My corporation---the one I founded almost fifty years ago---will build it. It's actually a relatively small project in terms of what they normally build. "All I need is the green light and something official, that is, a simple letter of intent, from your board which says do it---and I'll have people out here to survey the site within forty-eight hours, submit plans for permitting to the county and we can begin excavation by the first of the week---assuming the county doesn't drag its feet. This is the kind of project that is good for the corporate image---not to mention employee morale. We'll have folks volunteering to work on it nights and weekends on their own time." "Are you serious?" "Look, everybody and their brother hits me up for money---all you ever asked for was a little help and some paper towels and kitty litter. If I had to write a check for the whole thing---which I won't have to do---it's a drop in the bucket compared to my existing philanthropic activities, some of which I need to cut back because I don't approve of what they're doing with my money. I'd rather be giving my money to something I'm 'hands-on' involved in---this shelter. You need to trust that I will ensure that this shelter exceeds your---and your board's---expectations. Rick can tell you I do good work. We're already a month into building season. Time's a wasting---here's my card. My home and cell number are on the back if any of your board members have any questions." "The county will not be a problem; the chairman of the county commission is a board member." "Outstanding! Call me tonight after the meeting with the board's answer. Who else is on the board?" Denise showed Harry the list of board members. "Eight board members including you and Rick but he can't vote. Assuming you are on board, how many others do you...let's not be coy. How many others can you depend on?" "Enough to get four votes for certain...I think." "I know one of these folks slightly. I helped bankroll his first business and he's always been cordial. And I do a significant amount of business with that woman's bank---all of which can be moved within hours." "She was one I was worried about." "I'm not above a little legitimate blackmail, Denise. Even if it passes four-three and she votes against it there will be a price to pay---on principle. And the people I deal with at that bank will know why I'm leaving them and I still have enough clout on my own board to get the corporation to move business. Who is this person?" "She's the vice president and fund raising honcho for the local branch of a national charity." "They do good work. I've never met her but they cash my checks. This one?" "A senior VP with a major corporation." Denise named the company. "Can't help you there. I don't own enough of their stock to make a difference---but just enough to raise hell at their stockholders meetings. What about this next to last name?" "A senior administrator at the university." "My corporation contracts with the university for training and research and has endowed their engineering department in the past---and there is another major endowment on the table." "This last name?" "A corporate sponsor who virtually demanded a board seat in return for a generous endowment. Bluntly, they sent an obnoxious lawyer type as their representative who has become a major irritant." "Which corporation?" Denise told him. Harry started to chuckle. "Where do I begin? I'm on their board? I own thirteen percent of their stock? I went to college with their CEO and founder? He and his lovely wife are coming over for dinner and drinks tonight? Say the word and he will be replaced on your board---or he will begin to behave very contritely. Wait a minute. I see doubt in your eyes. Let me make a quick call." Harry hit a single button on his cell phone. "Jack! Get your ass out of the office and go home. I despise dinner guests who are late and in view of your advanced years you probably need a nap or you'll fall asleep at the table. Yeah, sure, same to you, you old fart. Hey listen a quick business note. You folks have been very generous with the animal shelter I volunteer at. Whoever is in charge of your foundation demanded a board seat in return for the sponsorship and sent some ass hole lawyer to represent your company---and he's not doing much for your reputation. If you can't straighten him out, for Christ's sake replace him. I'm planning to twist some arms---yours included---and build them a new shelter and the last thing they need is for some jerk to screw things up. Yeah, I know, lawyers---you can't fix 'em and it's against the law to shoot 'em. Okay. See you later." Harry ended the call and turned to Denise and Rick. "He's going to conduct a brief character guidance session on his way out the door with the offending attorney---who he is not particularly fond of. Be sure and let me know if the prick ever causes a problem again---assuming the company doesn't send someone else in the future. "Look, I have confidence in the two of you to make this happen. If you get blindsided I am not above taking suitable action---and even going public. I like this shelter and I like the people here but I am determined to build someone a new one and Lord knows there is need everywhere. Call me. I need to get home and get dinner started. My wife hates to cook but I love to. Oh, one last thought: "Don't ever judge a man by the vehicle he drives. I bought that truck for my son when he was in college---twenty years ago. When he got married and switch to a mini-van I 'bought' it back from him. They don't make 'em like that anymore---V8, gas guzzling---even has a carburetor. And no one in their right mind gets dressed up to stomp around dog shit. Last but not least---let's keep this among us. I enjoy being friends with the staff---wouldn't want that to change. Take care folks." Rick and Denise sat looking at each other in shock. Rick spoke first. "Do you have any doubt...?" "Not in a million years. You can take the chairman out of the board room but at his core he'll always be the chairman. You can't fake that unless you've been there. When a guy like Harry decides to get something done---it gets done or else." "Some days he gets here early and scoops all of the dog poop in the outdoor runs. The women who clean the runs and kennels adore him. They think he's just some kindly old pensioner. He always polite and he is amazing with the dogs. Who would have thought?" "Mark this on your calendar as a very special day for this shelter." The building project kicked off ahead of schedule and in no time the building site looked like that TV show where they build a house for some family in desperate need in under a week. The board voted unanimously to accept Harry's generosity. The offending lawyer was replaced by the retiring chairman of the board.