When I was a little kid from about two to seven I had an unusual babysitter, it was a large Alsatian dog called Dana. She was bought by my father as a puppy before I was born. My mother has told me she was scared at first that the dog would be jealous of the attention I was getting, so at first was kept away from me. After a while it became apparent that Dana far from being a danger was a protector towards me.
I do not know if it was just a natural mothering instinct of the dog or if the dog just enjoyed playing and being with me. All I can say is that I never felt threatened or scared as she was always very gentle with me. She must also have been very patient. As I can remember riding on her back like a horse with no complaint. My actual memories are a little fuzzy as this was over forty years ago. Luckily my parents were keen photographers so I have box loads of photos and super eight cine film documenting my early childhood.
Dana was certainly a trusted and much loved member of our family who kept a little me amused and safe. I can see from the films and pictures that she enjoyed her role as my companion. My father would tell me many years later that he was amazed that this large fearsome looking dog. Who was originally purchased as a guard dog for his business would be so protective of his family. She was far from being a pushover or pussycat and would not let any other animal near without giving off a warning growl. My parents could tell me off and even shout at me but if even they where to lift a hand to me Danas hackles would raise and she would get between me and them, letting them know she was not happy.
When I started school at five the school was only at the top of our street a two minute walk at most Dana would always accompany me and then make her way home. It amazes me now to think that this was possible yet it happened.
Dana was taken from us when I was seven, at the time my parents told me the old story that she had gone to live on a farm and she was very happy. Obviously as I got older I understood what had really happened. I can remember vividly the feelings I felt the anger and sadness that I would not see her again. I did not at the time realise how this affected my parents as they where heart broken as well. They never replaced Dana and to this day have never owned another dog.
So if you are lucky enough to have the privilege of owning a dog look after it, show it affection and you will receive the same affection and loyalty back.
