I used to be a groomer...

I used to be a groomer for a short period of time. I loved the grooming process (to see the transformation from dirty and ugly to clean and shiny one) and I loved to work with pets – they might not enjoy being on a grooming table, but when it’s done, they show off, just like we do after a visit to a hairdresser. I finished my career as a groomer because of the pet owners. I believe that grooming is not only taking care of a dog’s coat, but also educating the owner “how to”… When I had tried to do so, I saw such a resistance. People became defensive and at times aggressive. I would remind them to groom their dogs regularly (I am not talking about clipping nails or cleaning the anal glands- leave it to professional). All what I had asked of them was to brush their dog at least once a week. And it didn’t work – I would invite them inside the store, I would waste my time explaining and showing. The next time they came in – the same would happen – the dog’s coat was in terrible condition and horribly matted causing dog to suffer. The owners that came in claimed that they loved their dogs, but they just didn’t have any time. I would always ask them if they watched TV yesterday, and they would admit, “Yes.” Why wouldn’t you brush your dog watching your favorite program? I noticed this question irritated them, they believe it’s my job to groom dogs just like some parents believe it’s only the schools job to educate their children.
Just like you want to look good to be likable by others, your dog also needs to feel cared for.

Is he a shi tzu?

I suspect my little Chicko is not a shi tzu as he was sold to me. First of all he is big - 0nly 4 months and already 10,5 pounds. Second: behavior - he is not timid, not cuddly, he can’t stand being picked up, he doesn’t enjoy scratching belly or behind ears, he loves muddy puddles, he bites and wiggles. I’ve never seen a shi tzu like this. All what I wanted - small loving puppy, but instead I got small but aggressive something. I am trying to reprogram him with love and patience and the result is torn up pants and scratched hands. He is very independant - during our walks he is running away and I have to chase him (which is good for me since I put a lot of weight). My Daisy(8 years old field spaniel) absolutely ignores my command to get him, so my walk turns into marathon. I am not complaining - I love this little monster so much and hope he will change after neutering.

I am the boss!

My name is Chicko. I joined this family 2 months ago and from second day I started to dictate my rules . I am not stupid, on first day I just observed other pets. There are 3 of them - one overweight dog and 2 cats. The dog I figured out fast - she is a big sucker and not a problem at all. But cats - they are a different story, it took me a month to get along with them, especially the older one - what a nasty creature. My “mom” is the most pushover in the household, she knows she is wrong, but she does everything what I want because I am sweet, and cute, and small. She bought me because of these qualities - she is at certain age when women want to be grandmothers, so I compensate the lack of grandchildren. She likes to pick me up and pet, but I don’t want all this stupid “girlish”stuff. Sometimes I allow her to cuddle with me in the morning when I wake up for 5 min, then I start to bite her. The only thing I love to do with her is to take 2 hours walk every day, she doesn’t miss a day even if she is busy or doesn’t feel well. All pets like routine in their life, so at 4pm we (me and overweight one) are standing beside the door ready. I think I have a good life and I don’t want to change anything except … :”Mom”, you are in charge, not me!”