Three years in

Always ready to walk.

It was three years ago today that I adopted Penne from the Sarasota County Humane Society.  That was one of the best things I’ve done in retirement.

The County Sheriff’s Office licence says that she was then seven years old, and that she is a Labrador Cross.  Another document describes her as Retriever/Terrier.

Her previous owner/s stated (on the form they completed when they surrendered Penne to the Humane Society) that:

1. She is afraid of the noise of fireworks. ‘T’ain’t true.They do not bother her one bit, nor does thunder – thank goodness!


2. That she showed aggression in wanting to be dominate over other female dogs.  My experience is that she is very wary of all other dogs.


3. That she is loving and affectionate. You can say that again!  And again!



I am totally “nuts” about Penne.   She delights me every day.

I like it so much that she:

1. Wants to be near me wherever I am in the house.
2. Wags her tail when I do no more than look at her.
3. Issues a throaty “uummm” when I caress her head or her ears.
4. Delights in walking. We do between 4 and 5 miles each day.
5. Is a welcome guest in my friends’ homes.  They are always pleased to see her.
6. Is so well liked by the folks we encounter whilst we are on our walks. One man said “your dog is always smiling” - I know what he meant.

She’s been my “best pal” for three years.  

Now she is ten years old.

Yet she often has the energy and enthusiasm of a puppy, and will race around the house like a banshee when we are about to go walking.

The truth is that three years ago Penne adopted me!

In my pantheon she comes just after Wendy, Laura and Sam, and ahead of Martyn (family joke).

Penne resting on my bed in the early morning as I am checking my e-mail.

After a walk. Her tail is wagging though this photo' does not show it.