Rabbits

This morning we spotted the first rabbit in the backyard. I'm not afraid or worried about Mom's garden, as it is in pretty sad shape, and I have a feeling they aren't in our yard to tend the dandelions. Honestly they do nothing for me; by the time I'm out the door they are gone anyway.

The dilemma is Chase. Upon opening the door he bolts and tries to catch the rabbits. Why? he's crazy. Last year the rabbits took up a nice residence directly outside the fence under the neighbor's shed. While we were inside they bounded into the yard, looted the garden and when we came out to get some fresh air they bounced to safety outside the fence. Still sitting in plain sight: mommy, daddy, baby, cousins, tons of little bunnies. Chase wanted a bunny so bad; he barked, paced the fence and refused to come inside even with the promise of a Banana Bite. Our favorite.

Poor Chase, daily torments from the furry little critters. White tails, twitchy noses and fluffiness. It was too much for him. He did it; he jumped the back fence and the rabbits hid underneath the shed out of his reach. This wouldn't have been a big deal but he soon lost interest in the rabbits and followed the scents of the neighborhood. Mom was not happy. Neither of us passed obedience, basically the certificate was given to feel like we got our money's worth.

As Chase meanders up the street leaving messages here and there, Mom follows promising treats and a ride in the car while really she grits her teeth and curses her ill-behaved children in her head. He keeps walking. Eventually he met a nice shepherd mix which provided an opportunity to slip his leash on. . . . .

Unfortunately, this isn't the only time Chase has jumped the fence in search of rabbits, cats, neighbor dogs and sent the parents into a panic. During winter the mounds of snow put a halt to the running start needed to clear the fence. But now the snow is gone you can hear Mom call, "Chase are you still in our yard?" from the kitchen and see her peaking out to check-in. Secretly she is hoping he has forgotten his super dog abilities or that he has become her well-behaved son. Myself, I am on the sturdy side so jumping requires way too much energy and I have come to the realization air-conditioning and treats are not provided in the great out-of-doors.

With the return of the rabbits, it could be another season of 'chasing' Chase.

*Chase has identification on his collar as well as a micro-chip.