Pedley's Ponderings

We added a new member to the family on Tuesday night.

Puppy Tucker, a Border Collie mix, was picked up from People for Pets in Spencer. He was found abandoned near Primghar recently and was brought to the shelter for adoption.

He’s a friendly pup. German Shepherd, Bo, gave him a warm welcome upon his arrival home. Our hope is that the ol’ girl will be able to share some of her “good dog demeanor” with Tucker. Time will tell – Kaity claims she’s always wanted to be a mom.

Cat Phyllis wasn’t impressed, however. Tucker had a feline friend at the shelter who he played with, but he has no such quarter with Phyllis. The grouch has only offered him several hisses and a few scratches when Tucker has attempted to play. I don’t foresee the dynamic of that relationship changing anytime soon. Her pupils have been dialated with heightened anxiety since the dog stepped foot in the house.

Admittedly, I didn’t want another dog. I’m tired of paying for these pets, but was equal parts exhausted by my wife and kids’ repeated requests for a companion for Bo. I’m a broken man and they know it.

Oliver promised he’d be the one taking care of Tucker. I’m going to hold him to it, too, because the boy could use a little more responsibility in his life. I have enough without the puppy.

Nick Pedley is the news editor and ad manager of The Hartley Sentinel-The Everly/Royal News.