The Chronicles of Jeb

I love to see what transpires when an ardent non-animal lover gets smitten by an animal. It's so funny.

My friend, Melissa, is not an animal fan. I've never seen her flinch an inch on her resolve to never own an animal.

But her children love animals. Her son even got a German Shepherd recently- good ole Jeb. Since he's away at college that was no big deal- until he came home for a few weeks with Jeb in tow. Then he had to leave to do other things, leaving Jeb in Melissa's care.

Jeb is the sweetest dog you could ever imagine (except for my Rex that went to doggy heaven in February). His only flaw is that he'll lick you to death after he's licked unmentionable parts of his body. But we'll forgive him for that because he's just such a big lover boy.

He's smart too. Totally potty trained. Actually obeys commands. Shakes paws with you when he first meets you. Great guard dog.

The other day I went to Melissa's house and met Jeb for the first time. He and I were instant friends, but I totally expected Melissa to complain about him and shoo him away. What a surprise! Not only did she not shoo him away or complain, but Jebby boy got a prominent seat on the sofa right next to her with his nose nuzzled against her. Then he rolled over on his back and she obliged with a belly rub as if this was the normal routine. I noticed that she spoke sweetly to him as if he was a kid. Boy, was I shocked!

But that was nothing to what happened yesterday. John and I had just pulled in our driveway when I saw Melissa's van go down the street. She doesn't live on our street so I thought it odd and went to end of the driveway to meet her on her return trip up the road. Turns out she had been outside doing stuff with the van door open and Jeb had gotten in the van, "Because he wanted to go for a ride." Naturally, she couldn't let him down so she hopped in, rolled down the windows, and took him for a drive. I joined them and we went riding around the neighborhood wasting $4.00 a gallon gas just because Jeb wanted to go for a drive.

As I got out of the van and stood at the window with Jeb kissing all over me I said, "You have fun with your grandma, Jeb." (I've had great fun leaving phone messages for "Jeb's grandma"). Then I said, "Tell Granny to take you to the store and buy you some dog treats and bones." To which Melissa replied, "I already have some at home, thank you!"

So much for the non-animal lover! By tomorrow Jeb might have his own bedroom.