As told to Margaret Koenig
I’m Linnie, and while I may have failed at becoming a seeing-eye dog, when it comes to winning peoples’ hearts, I can’t lose. I’m 50 percent Black Labrador, 50 percent Golden Retriever and 100 percent pure joy! Before being adopted by Maggie, I was training to become a service animal with Guide Dogs for the Blind in San Rafael, but my barking habit kept me from making the cut. Their loss was Maggie’s gain—and mine! This two-year-old now enjoys a more leisurely lifestyle in Menlo Park, where I often start my days with my favorite pastime: bounding up and down hiking trails off-leash. My favorite trails are in Portola Valley and Berkeley, but as long as I can find sticks on the ground to carry, I’m not picky! I love to stop and gaze at deer, salamanders, birds and any other wildlife I come across. Even at home, I take an interest in other animals, often venturing outside to stare endlessly at our chickens. It’s not just animal companionship I crave—I love being around humans as well. It’s like I can never get close enough to the people around me. When snuggling up to someone, I won’t just settle for sitting at their feet but will instead sit on their feet, hoping for attention and petting. So far, it’s a foolproof strategy. And although Maggie travels frequently, her friends are always eager to take me in while she’s away. I guess they just like to be with me. People seem to delight in my company just as much as I delight in theirs—I think that’s what they call a win-win!
Calling All Dogs: If you've got quirky habits or a funny tale (or tail) to share, email your story to hello@punchmonthly.com for a chance to share a page from your Diary of a Dog in PUNCH.