As many of you know, I am a dog lover and I quite often dog sit in my home for pets of friends who are on vacation. Through the years I have had many experiences with many different dogs. I have coped with the ardent ones, the shy ones, the nervous ones, and the downright mean ones.
I recall with laughter the little fluff ball that jumped on my lap and then onto the patio table and preceeded to make herself at home. I thought nothing of this until I began to smell something burning. Mollie's bushy tail was resting in an ash tray! I quickly pinched out the smoldering fire. A quick snip or two with the scissors and no one knew the difference!
When Mollie next visited my home, she was accompanied by her owner's beautiful Japanese fighting fish, Mert. I had never fish sat before but I dutifully followed the directions on how many (2) little round fish food pellets I should give Mert. I felt sorry for poor lonely Mert and I would talk to him when I passed by and would pat the vase he called home.
Mert flourished for a week but one morning I found him belly up! What to do? What to do? There is no 911 number for fish resusitation and besides, he looked a bit furry around his mouth! I knew my chat room friends would have an answer so I quickly logged on.
Ah, yes. Friends to the rescue. I will not name names, but it was suggested that I have a fish sandwich for lunch, throw a small party and serve sushi, have him mounted to be displayed on the wall, or give him a naval burial down the toilet.
Not knowing which of these alternatives would best please the owner, I scooped Mert up, put him in a plastic bag, and froze him.
When vacation time was over, I reluctantly told Mollie's owner of Mert's demise. She said, "Throw him in the garbage. I'll get another. They're all alike, anyway." So much for my distress about losing a pet on my watch! I'm out of the fish business but want to thank my friends for their tender suggestions.