Sunday, November 30, 2008
Young Ted was about to pass out from out-of-control hysterical laughter. Duke, the dog of my childhood — big, strong, lovable, a black Labrador/retriever Weimaraner mix — was pulling me wildly in my Red Flyer wagon across the vacant field, bouncing dangerously over every bump and rock.
Fortunately, no damage was done during this adventurous outing of a boy and his dog.
It's one of so many memories still alive and making me smile more than 50 years later.
I look back at the many dogs in my life and know that my experiences with them have brought me much happiness.
Additionally, as a child I learned critical lessons about responsibilities properly caring for animals.
The same has applied to my kids. The fun factor with pets is extremely entertaining, but it is the list of required duties and chores — fresh water, good food and a warm, secure, dry shelter that really brings home critical lessons — that makes pet ownership a character-building experience.
Seeing someone's dog chained up day after day, week after week under a dead tree with no shade in rutted dirt, I find it hard to believe that anyone could be so uncaring and heartless.
Not a day goes by that we in my family fail to run and play with our dogs, giving them ample opportunity to stretch their legs and just be dogs.
Brushing and grooming them is a pleasant activity and actually keeps their coat and skin healthy. Everybody takes turns and the dogs love it.
Since all are gung ho hunting dogs, it is vital for them to remain in tip-top shape to be prepared for the rigors of our long hunting seasons.
Daily practice sessions of commands and retrieving sequences teach them obedience. This interaction assures also they'll be unlikely to get in trouble, lost or, worse, get into life-threatening situations with traffic or other dogs.
And again, the dogs get such a kick out of it all, as do we.
Caring for our dogs
A good quality vitamin routine is a solid idea too, especially if you have working dogs that are required to be physically active.
The same goes for flea and tick treatments, especially in Texas where bugs seem to come in clouds and waves.
A good quality flea powder along with cedar or pine chips and shavings will make the dog comfortable, stay a little cooler in the heat, and discourage ticks and creepy crawlers from hitching a ride.
Roomy kennels are always best with a concrete slab on a minimal angle for good water drainage. Adequate shade is imperative under the baking Texas sunshine year round, but an insulated dog house with good wind cutting design will be necessary when those winter temperatures begin to dip.
All this basic care is essential, but it is the time spent with our beloved pets that really brings it all home for us.
A genuine bonding takes place between pets and young owners who really put their hearts and souls into responsible pet ownership.
A youngster who is guided and taught this basic love becomes a better person. Kids and pets: a match made in heaven.
Ted Nugent is a Waco-based musician and television show host. Contact him directly at tednugent.com.
