Another Story By My Husband

Looking for a way to link my fondness for dogs with a source of additional income, I answered an advertisement which said: "Wanted, Pet Sitter for Standard Poodle who is a complete gentlemen." As you may know, a Standard Poodle is a large sized dog with a sprightly gait. Their curly coat may be groomed with a continental clip. That means the rear half of the body is shaved, bracelets left around the ankles, and pom poms left on the tail and hips. When the poodle stands on its hind legs, it looks like a hairy ballet dancer.

Although my pet sitting experience was limited to feeding the cat next door, the woman who placed the ad was willing to review my credentials. On the day of the interview, I drove to a mini-mansion located in a posh neighborhood and knocked on the front door. When it opened, I was greeted by the two dignified occupants, the woman and the poodle. Both were coiffured and bejeweled, standing elegantly side by side, paw in hand. Truly, Lord and Lady of the Manor.

Proceeding to the den, the woman explained that the poodle was a retired show dog, accustomed to the very best, and only the finest sitter would be allowed to care for him during her absence. Once seated, she explained in detail the poodle’s habits and requirements. He had to be fed out of a china dish with a wooden ladle. The woman demonstrated the prescribed feeding position, placing the poodle in front of my chair with its nose between my legs. Then I practiced feeding the poodle tidbits with the ladle.

After the feeding, I had to order the poodle to go outdoors, because he didn’t like the outdoors. I had to say quite firmly: "Go Tee Tee." Once out in the garden, he went directly to a designated location near the rear wall. When he hesitated at his spot, the woman told me to turn my back because he didn’t like anyone watching him do his Tee Tee. At the end of the interview process, the woman asked the poodle, "Do you like this lady?" He leaped in the air, danced on his hind legs, and barked, "Yes! Yes! Yes!" However, I never heard from the woman again. Apparently after I left, the woman must have said, "Did you really like that lady?" He must have growled, "No! No! No!" Somewhat dismayed I decided to become a dog groomer instead