Jessica "Discovers" Max

[David C.]

Even though Jessica and Max have been living under the same roof for two years, it appears that Jessica finally has identified Max as another living being and not just another toy.

We discovered this when Jessica was running around the house squealing, like she usually does when someone plays "chase" with her.  Max wasn't chasing her.  He was having one of his "active" periods, which usually consists of just walking around the house.  However, Jessica thought he has chasing her and was having a grand time.   Then she started following Max around.  Max is usually a good sport, so long as he has his "out".

When Max doesn't have an out, or he feels like he is getting cornered, he does get ornery.   Max clearly doesn't possess the same kind of enthusiasm for Jessica's that she does for him.  We are teaching Jessica to "make nice" and we do scold her when she is rough with Max.   Max has resorted to snapping at her at times, even when we are showing her how to "make nice".   Max has yet to make contact and only seems to be attempting to smack her with his snout.   This kind of situation calls for immediate discipline, but you really can't teach a very old dog a new trick.  Yet, once the incident is over, Max has no problem sneaking up on Jessica to give her a slurpy kiss on her feet or hands.

It does make me regret that Rudy wasn't around for this "A Ha!" discovery.   He was far more interactive and far more patient with Jessica than Max is.  That ran completely opposite of his personality.   There were times when I was sure Rudy was going to snap at Jessica (like when she grabbed an ear), but he never showed an ounce of aggression towards her.   I'm sure he would have been delighted when Jessica realized that he was not just another toy.

[Merion]

I wish he was still here for her too. He would have had a blast with her.  Will keep poor Max in our prayers for patience in dealing with Jessica Good Luck to you all for a uneventful time til she gets used to him and knows when to leave him alone.
Merion & Zack

[Jeri]

David,

I have witnessed similar reactions from Leopold and Skeeter when it comes to children.  Skeeter, the territorial and temperamental one, tolerates children well and actually seems to enjoy their attention.  Leopold, the laid back, sweet tempered dog, has very little patience with small kids and snap at them if they get in too in his face.  Just like with Rudy and Max, it's just the opposite of what one would expect.  At 16, Max does deserve a little peace and quiet, but that just isn't what toddlers are about.  We all miss Rudy and wish he was still around.

[Barb]

I wish Rudy was still here too.......one of my most favorite pictures of all is Rudy kissing your niece.  It is amazing how their personalities can change with kids......Hang in there Max - you can always run under the bed for peace and quiet !!!

[PattyInAK]

Great story!  I wish Rudy was still around, too.

[SNKSMOMSUE]

 :apls: Great story, would love to see that!

How about a picture??

[Shumard4]

Ah! I loved that mental picture. I miss Rudy and tell Max to hang in there. Love to your family!

[Carol]

Oh what a great story.  I'll just bet your Rudy-Angel is smiling from above.