Boston Dog Fancy

My friend, Caroline has recently found herself in a whole new world. Little did she realize, when she and her husband adopted a puppy last fall, that they would be joining a cultish club. This new world exists parallel to our everyday world, but largely goes unnoticed unless you are in the know. This is the World of Dog. Now, Caroline and Cedric's days revolve around their dog's activities. Walks to the dog park, outings to acres of off leash space, visits to dog and cat boutiques, vet visits to get spayed and microchipped, the considerations of dog food, and days spent at doggie day care (for Lottie, not Caroline)...In short, they have entered my world. As first time dog owners, they were pleasantly surprised at how friendly and fulfilling this world is. Now, they can't imagine life without Lottie. Now, everything I've talked about over the years...comments I've made Caroline might have simply nodded and 'mmm hmmm' to...she now shares, "Oh, now I know exactly what you meant!"

And, if you are reading this and have to ask, "What is this Dog World? What is she talking about?" Well, you obviously need to get yourself a dog...
Here is the dog park in Somerville, MA. I was recently visiting this north Boston suburb. This was a cold and icy day, but the dogs didn't mind and the people were so nice.

Lottie, AKA, "The Best Dog in the World" (Obviously, she is the best dog in HER world...sorry Caroline, had to steal that line...cuz everyone knows Roman and Tikka are the best dogs in the world, LOL). Here is Lottie after the dog park and wanting to take a nap...I can't believe it, LOL, ON THE BED (never thought dog hair would find it's way to Caroline's immaculate home furnishings...btw, they are still immaculate...how does she do it?)

OK, the Middlesex Fells or Sheepfold, puts Ft. Funston to shame. It is 2500 wooded acres of open, off leash space with trails, ponds, etc. I would move here just to go to this 'dog park' every day. Still, Ft. Funston does have the beach and Pacific Ocean sunsets...yes, at least we have that...

A Massachusetts professional dogwalker. I didn't get a chance to talk to her, but I couldn't help wondering what happens when it is storming out and the snow is thick?
Lottie has the best temperament around other dogs. She's not a butt like Roman or an old bitch like Tikka. She's all about love and play and the squeaky toy. Her mom is a boxer and her dad was MIA. I think ridgeback or pittie or both. Either way, she is gorgeous.
Look at that face! Lottie's...not mine (not liking the short hair, ugh...but that's another story). See that smile on Caroline's face? It's the Power of Dog!