Our two pups are off to “Camp Schnauzerville,” while we do a long weekend at the Keys. I’m up bright and early but they are not around today for the first outing of the day. I’m missing the interaction, while the quiet is deafening. “Schnauzerville” is where Fosse was born – her mom and dad live there and the place where Tally has stayed since we moved to Florida. It’s an invaluable dog sitting and grooming service at an affordable price, although the place is “racist” – only allowing Schnauzers. Unlike most dogs, Fosse’s dad is a swimmer, and she has been in the water and encouraged to paddle, although we would prefer that she stay out of our pool. Fortunately, she needs the confidence of her daring father, so with the exception of an occasional slip, she skirts the pool. Both dogs do enjoy sitting in the sun on the lanai and will lazily join me while I read in the afternoons. 

One of the endearing things about pairing an older schnauzer with a puppy is the learning process – old dogs teach new dogs new behavior tricks. For example, when the mature pup barks, the student chimes in. One of my favorites, however, is the need to redecorate when we leave them alone to “watch each other.” They move rugs from room to room, scatter their toys in a frenzy, and relocate their beds and bowls. When we come home, the kitchen runner is in the living room, despite its rubber backing. When my wife slides it back in place, they both jump on for a joy ride. It’s like two dogs on a toboggan. I’m not sure where Fosse learned her bad habit of destroying TV remotes – I can’t afford to leave them out, after losing at least five while others are held together with tape. 

We’ll pick them up on Monday morning, after the long weekend, groomed, bathed, and worn out from playing with the other boarders, in Fosse’s case, brothers, sisters, cousins, and parents. Although there are some gray and white varieties, most are black. They love their own kind, and I’m enjoying them together – Tally is 15 and Fosse 1. They live to eat, constantly scavenging for crumbs, or planning their next redecorating project.