Seeking a Playful Companion
Dear Frankie,
My name is Houdinia. I got my name because I am a rabbit and like to pretend that I’m a magician and can disappear when I’m hiding. It’s not much of a game though, if you live alone and there isn’t anyone to look for you. I often see the dogs in the neighborhood playing hide and seek. So, I was wondering if you thought it was good idea for me to get a dog as a playmate? I understand girl dogs can be gentler, than the boys.
Cordially,
Houdinia
Dear Houdinia,
First of all, are you sure your family is on board with taking on a canine? It’s one thing to care for a rabbit. Dogs on the other hand require much more work and expense.
Your question does make me wonder how much experience you have had with dogs. Are you aware that some dogs find it a great sport to chase rabbits and hurt them? There are also dogs that are specifically bred to hunt and kill rabbits. So, whatever you do, stay away from the hunters. Definitely don’t get a greyhound, beagle, or a bloodhound.
If you get the OK from your family and still have your heart set on getting a dog, I suggest you find an older and lazy one. Size should also be a consideration. You definitely need a big dog that won’t be able to get under the couch if that’s one of your go-to disappearing places. When you think of all the criteria a dog would have to meet to be your playmate, it doesn’t sound like that kind of dog would be much fun.
The only other option I can suggest is a big friendly dog with a bad leg. Dogs with a disability often are not chosen for adoption, so you would each be doing the other a favor.
Now that I have pointed out all the things you need to consider in selecting the right dog, you might want to go back to the drawing board. Are you sure a fellow rabbit that also likes to play hide and seek might not be a better choice? A rabbit could also double your chances for amusement because each of you can get a turn being the hider as well as the seeker.
Best, Frankie
P.S. I think your name is a kick
© 2021, Geneva Woodruff
Frankie is an eight-year-old schnauzer poodle and a rescue. She is a certified emotional support animal for a single retired educator.
Comments and letters can be sent to Frankie at dearfrankiecolumn@gmail. com. The Fairhaven Neighborhood News publishes the Dear Frankie column. To receive a free online subscription, email neighbnews@comcast.net and request to be added to the email list, or visit www.neighbnews.com to read the paper online or to download the latest issue.
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