It’s been so cold the past few days I think my fur is stuck permanently on end. And I find it so hard to get out of bed in the morning. If mother would just keep letting me go on the bathroom mat, things would be great!  I find it strange that at the same time the nights come early and the cold wind fills the air, the humans string lights, and put up many colored objects around the house. Mother says “it’s beginning to feel a lot like Christmas”. But if Christmas is cold, why would anyone look forward to it?

Things are staying warm and busy in the clinic. Many of the furry friends coming in are dressing like the humans; bundled up in sweaters and coats. Sweet Sally and Dancing Debbie get such a thrill to see the outfits.

Of course, Bea and I and decked out for the holiday too. Mother denies that she dresses us up. She says the “coats” are just harnesses, and that I can’t wear a collar on account of my sensitive neck.

Barking of sensitive necks, we’ve had lots of dogs come in coughing recently. My dad says “Tis the season for kennel cough with everyone traveling”. Many of the dogs feel perfectly fine, they are just doing “the goose honk” Vonnie says.

One German Shepherd named Barley came in,

 and had to have the black-and-white pictures taken. Mother said, “His chest looks fine, but what’s wrong with his stomach? Has he been eating anything unusual?” “He does like to eat dirt. In fact, just today I saw him with a mouthful!” Barley’s mom said.

 “Well, at least he won’t mind taking his antibiotics then!” mother said, laughing. I couldn’t help but think that Barley probably got so hungry watching the humans eat and eat during this time of year, and never getting any for himself that he just took to eating dirt. Funny, when I think of everything I’ve put in my mouth, I never thought to try the dirt. I’ll have to see if I get any of the big feast planned for Christmas, if not, watch out dirt, here I come!