Wednesday, October 24, 2012

Collecting Dog Info

Does anyone reading this have any doubts about whether I’m obsessed by dogs?

Of course I’m here on Killer Hobbies because I write mysteries that involve pets, although I’ve always maintained that pets are not hobbies, they’re family.

Last week, I wrote about how my dogs missed me while I was out of town.

This week, I’m writing about how my obsession affects me everywhere, including at home.  When I’m at home, my dogs order me about, even when I’m writing.  Which is fine.  That’s their job. 

Mine is to love them, and take care of them, even obey them, sort of.  It’s also to enjoy other dogs, and figure out what I’m going to write about them next.  As a result, I collect a lot of things I find about dogs: newspaper and magazine articles, links to online sites, books, whatever. 

What do they have to say about dogs?  Anything.  Some are about dogs as pets, about service dogs, about how people have rescued dogs and dogs have rescued people. 

Some are about how people train dogs, or, yes, the dogs train people.  Others are about dogs’ intelligence.  And, yes, I collect anything on Cavalier King Charles Spaniels--books, trinkets, whatever. 

Who else is obsessed by pets?  Are they dogs, cats or something else?

10 comments:

Janie Emaus said...

I haven't had a pet in a long time, not that I don't love them. But my life is so busy these days..I'm obsessed with finding time to sleep!

Linda O. Johnston said...

That's an important obsession, Janie. Hope you're successful!

Betty Hechtman said...

I don't know if this counts as obsessed, but I know the names of the animals that live on my street, but not necessarily the owners.

Linda O. Johnston said...

Maybe it's not obsession, Betty--but we know who's most important in all those households!

Kate said...

The people in my neighbourhood know me as Dolly's Mom. They don't recognize me without the dog. I think it is funny, because I say Hi, and I get one of those "do I know you" looks.

Linda O. Johnston said...

Maybe you should wear a picture of Dolly around your neck, Kate! Dolly must be a memorable pup.

Joanna Campbell Slan said...

Linda, up in DC, I knew all my neighbors by their dogs. It was almost funny!

Linda O. Johnston said...

It's just recognizing a member of the family, Joanna.

Unknown said...

We were lucky enough to be adopted by a border collie mix named scooter. He was a rescue animal and has done amazing things to protect all of my family. I am a divorced single parent of special needs kids. Like others mentioned, everyone knows my dog but not really me. My kiddos once told a stranger that Scooter was the only "furry man" in my life....so true...lol

Linda O. Johnston said...

Scooter sounds like an amazing member of your family, Jennifer. You're all lucky to have each other!