DEAR DAPHNE #18

By Ricki Rubenstein – Daphne’s Mom

WOOF!! WOOF!! WOOF!! WAG!! WAG!! WAG!!

I’m just digging this wonderful weather! Morning and evening walks are just blissful in the cooler air. Yeah, Fall!! A tad cooler would be even better. I actually don’t mind the cold so much, but hate to see Mom bundle up in leggings, sweater, coat, hat, gloves, and goodness knows what else, just to stay warm. No problemo for me, with my luscious black coat! Florida born and raised, I’ve never seen snow, but I’ve have heard it’s a hoot for playful pups!

I’ve been checking my “pee-mail” and have found some buzz about my “chasing” cars, trucks, bicycles, and walkers along my property line on Herons Nest Lane. Please, please know that it’s just my way of greeting everyone—and getting some exercise! My “invisible fence” keeps me safe, so no worries about my getting in your way. And, folks, you’re always welcome to come closer for a personal greeting. I love everyone … cats, maybe not so much!

Goodbye to Our Favorite Mail Carrier

Harry, our wonderful mail carrier, knocked on the door the other morning to say goodbye. He’s retiring after 30 years! I’m gonna miss him so much! He always waves hi, and sometimes even stops his truck to get out and ruffle my top-knot and even throw a ball (there’s always one somewhere on the lawn). Mom and Harry had a good laugh when a letter he hand-delivered was made out to me! (I’m so credit-worthy, every credit card company wants me!)

The “Dignity of Knighthood” Comes to the Creek

Welcome, Sir Winston, to the ‘hood! Marilyn Draper and Giles Renaud adopted this 3-1/2 year old British Bulldog from SAFE, via Jax Animal Care & Protective Services (ACPS). Yeah! for their saving another dog from euthanasia! And what a way to celebrate National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month this October! Sir Winston may look fierce, but take it from me, he’s a “big hush puppy”!

By the way, the “original” Sir Winston Churchill had a Bulldog, named Dodo, and two brown Miniature Poodles, both named Rufus. Gotta love a man who loves Poodles! He also had two cats (Nelson and Jock), but I don’t need to go there.

Letter from A Good Friend

Dear Daphne, I have to share with y’all that I get the best food, treats, and other stuff delivered right to our door from Pet Wants! My favorites are the yak cheese chews and elk antlers, and the box it all comes in is so cool! My humans (Jan and Dom Vita) will give you the details, but you’ve got to try it!

Pet Wants (petwantsjaxbeach.com) in Jax Beach is a local, family-owned business, offering high-quality dog and cat foods, treats, toys, and more. The “on sale” section changes frequently. Delivery is free to your door on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, and the customer service is excellent. The owner, Nick, is consistently available to answer questions. If you want something special that’s not on their website, he will search high and low to get it for you. You gotta try ‘em!

Love from your buddy, Tango

Dear Tango, Great to hear from you! You’re one of my best correspondents! And thanks a bunch for the tip about Pet Wants. I’m sure our fellow 4-leggers will appreciate learning about this resource. See you soon!

Letter from Another Friend

Dear Daphne, Loved your last column! You certainly are a “poodle with a noodle”! And your research is always fun to read. As we speak, my cat brother, Harry, is filling out applications to become a Well-Being Expert in the event not many dogs apply for the job. I must compliment you on your bold new fashion statement in your last column; perhaps it’ll catch on here in Marsh Creek. Maybe the world! Check out the picture of me trying to be more fashion conscious. Mom (Carole Anzivino) says she thinks it’s not a good look for me because you can’t tell where my butt ends and the tail begins! Anyway, I enjoy meeting all the new pups, but only from my self-imposed distance.

Your admirer, Mack

Dear Mack, Love ya, pal! You’re another great letter-writer! Your “hat trick” is cute, but it’s hard to compare to my “poodle-do”. I enjoy our walks with our moms. You may be a shy Shelty, but you’re sweet (and gorgeous)! I’m not so sure about Harry’s new venture.

More Pet Gear!

So, dear readers, how do you like this one? Now, it’s your turn! Send me pics!