For an otherwise respectable ranching operation, we have a pretty motley pack of dogs comprised of a Labrador Retriever, a Red Heeler, an Australian Shepard¹ and two Chihuahuas (“Tell me which one doesn’t belong … la la la”). 

This is part of the reason the Cowboy has imposed a Critter Limit, but that’s a separate subject entirely, to be visited at some other time.

Today, I would like to formally introduce you to Miller, our loyal Black Lab.  Miller was a carefully considered addition to our family and was a Christmas gift from me to the Cowboy.  An immense amount of scientific research preceded my Puppy-For-Christmas purchase, including endless discussion with mutual friends, co-workers and a complicated internal dialogue with myself.  Finally, I decided a Labrador Retriever would be the best match and the perfect duck hunting accessory, ultimately leading to a Miller for Christmas in 2006.

I know, obviously the best decision ever, right!?  At this point in time I feel I am obligated to tell you that contrary to my assumption that when you hear that Labs are destructive puppy monsters for the first three years of their life it’s just a silly rumor from people who aren’t truly committed, loving dog owners, it is in fact an entirely accurate observation.  You have been warned.

However, Miller has grown up a bit and excels at being a loving, loyal cowboy companion as well as a somewhat mindful duck hunting accessory. 

This post isn’t just to introduce you to Miller, it came about because of something that I found completely hilarious that occurred the other day.  Miller loves bunnies².  Or, maybe Miller hates bunnies.  I’m not sure as he’s never been quick enough to actually catch one, but when he scents or sees one his single minded determination is at once admirable and aggravating. 

Please note the above photo of Miller’s profile for comparison.

The other day Miller found a bunny hole.  Miller spent all morning barking, whining and sniffing in the bunny hole.  Miller spent all afternoon at the bunny hole.  Miller finally was convinced to leave the bunny hole for the evening in exchange for the promise of tasty kibbles for dinner. 

After kibble time, when he came into the house for the night to curl up and have sweet doggy dreams about bunnies he looked like this:

The bridge of his nose was swollen from bonking it against the edge of the bunny hole all day.  It’s okay you can laugh, I did!  Don’t you think he looks a bit like the Spud Mckenzie dog from the old Budweiser commercials? 

Phew!  Need to rest that fat nose … I did attmept to wash the dirt off, but it was determined to stick.

He was in much better spirits the next morning.  I think when Labs go to sleep a tiny dream fairy comes along and wipes away the day’s disapointment and misfortune, making each day truely new, which is why they are always so danged happy-go-lucky.

Good morning Miller!  Are you feeling much better today?  You still look kinda silly …

“Oohh, Mom, that’s enough … people are gonna think I’m “special” if you keep this up … wait … was that a bunny!?”

1. Technically, the Aussie is the resident ranch dog but she adds a little elegance to our little pack, so I claim her.
2. No bunnies, or any other fluffy forest creatures, were harmed in the activities preceding the creation of this posting.