Hear, hear! I’m Finch, a seven-year-old terrier mix, and I’ll bet that you’re looking at my amazing ears. Some people are self-conscious about having big ears, but I think mine are my best feature. Can a small-eared dog hear a banana being peeled from the other side of the house? I don’t think so! And I would hate to miss out on a delicious banana. Granted, my ears are big compared to the rest of me. Even my name is a reflection of my diminutive stature. When Ben and Kitty adopted me as a puppy, they wanted to name me Atticus, after the hero in Ben’s favorite movie, To Kill a Mockingbird. But they decided that it was too big of a name for such a little fellow and opted for the character’s shorter last name. Being on the smaller side is probably why I’ve gotten so good at walking on my hind legs. Sometimes I need a higher vantage point—like when there’s a deer in the vicinity and I want to get a good long look. I also pop up on two legs so I can stand between Jim and Kitty for a group hug in our San Mateo kitchen every morning. But those aren’t my only talents! I also have a fine voice. Kitty likes to sing, and it didn’t take me long to realize that she needs backup. When she breaks into song, I throw back my head and howl along.
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.