Paws Up for Quarantine

I’m Petey Cook, and my siblings and I say “Paws Up for Quarantine.” Before I explain, let me introduce the gang, who had the wisdom to adopt and enrich the lives of Mama Kam and Papa Gene Cook. (Papa Gene wants to be a “Cook Dog” in his next life.)

I’m the alpha Outside Dog, Petey or “Sweet Pete.” Although I’m a Pit Bull mix (we get a bum rap), I’m a lover, not a fighter.

Luke, the oldest, is a Border Collie mix who was found—traumatized—in our garage. He can be curmudgeonly, especially to new interlopers.

Duffy and Lottie had the sense to adopt us in February. Duffy is a lovable, shy young male of unidentifiable parentage. Unfortunately, our Lab-Boykin mix puppy Lottie went into heat before she could be fixed. We hope she practiced social distancing before being quarantined, too.

Finn, a 180-pound Great Pyrenees, thinks he’s a lapdog. Son-in-law Chris McIntyre bought him to keep predators away from the property after coyotes killed our beloved Daisy, a Great Dane mix. He protects us all.

Inside Dogs include Jesse and Dixie. The Cooks have been owned by dachshunds for 52 years, so taking in Jesse was a no-brainer. Alpha Dixie has been a lot sweeter since she nearly died last summer from being a typical nosy beagle and eating a box of mouse poison.

We love quarantine because our families are home. You take us for walks and play with us, you give us tummy rubs to show you care. You give us hugs when you can’t hug your grandchildren.

In a recent Children’s Sermon, Phillip Greeson compared the caring relationship between their family and their dog, Blue, to that of God and his children. Yes, Mama Kam and Papa Gene are responsible for caring for us and keeping us safe and healthy, but pets have responsibilities, too. Dogs teach our humans how to love unconditionally. As demonstrated by the influx of recent pet adoptions, we also provide comfort. Caressing a pet helps lower stress and blood pressure.

So, our advice is to take this opportunity to keep in contact with family and friends, let them know how much they mean to you and how much you care.

PS – You can give us extra treats to show your appreciation.