The Granddogs

My parents are visiting and my guys are thrilled. There’s always a big crush at the door when they arrive. Zeke and Sumner are happy to see my Mom, but they’re over the moon about my Dad. “He’s here! He’s here!” Zeke immediately rounds up all of his toys for my Dad as if to say, “Welcome, and please do partake in my bounty.” My Dad selects the toy du jour and the games begin immediately, as in, the poor man hasn’t even made it to the bathroom yet. After some pant-inducing tug and fetch, they take a break. Zeke then gives my Mom equal time. Sumner waits until Zeke has burned off some of his initial excitement, then he moves in to collect his lovin’. Any time my Dad leaves the room, the guys follow him. And wait. And then rejoice. “He’s still here! Hooray!” (Notice the ball in Zeke’s mouth. Just in case.) After about an hour we descend into jealous Granddog syndrome. Zeke wants to play with my Dad, Sum just wants to cuddle with him. Who will win? Sum sits on the sidelines wearing his hopeful face. “Are you ready to pet me?”: Zeke takes the used car salesman approach. 1. Drop ball in front of feet. 2. Give expectant look. 3. “What can I do to get you to play ball today?” And Sumner is left dejected, waiting for equal time. My Dad makes up for it and let’s Sumner do all of the naughty things that I forbid, like jumping up on him and begging at the table. That’s what Grandfathers are for, right? Does your pet have a favorite houseguest? Leave a comment and tell me about it!