Getting Her Howl On or CALL of the WILD in QUOTIDIEN

We adopted Bethsheba, our German Shepherd, January of this year. At the time, she was just a little over 11 months of age. Our original intent when we went to this breeder, was to purchase a puppy. Upon visiting the kennels, however, I was immediately taken with Beth, and it appeared to be reciprocated as she came straight to my side and pressed herself against my thigh the moment her kennel gate was opened.

Thoughts of the adoption of our originally chosen puppy became uncertain as I considered that her adoption would be far more likely compared to that of an older pup. Within a week, we took Beth to be ours.

Currently in her third estrus cycle, Beth has taken to whining pitiably and groaning about, no doubt, the fact that she is strictly forbidden chocolate or Ben and Jerry's even now in her greatest hour of need.

So last night, I decided to encourage her to let loose with her frustrations and taught her to howl. I began, then husband joined in. Yes, we looked like a pair of idiots, but we persisted because.....we're glad to be idiots for our girl. :) After a look of total shock passed over her, Beth finally threw back her head and let loose with her tentative howls. We were delighted - and she seemed calmer.

But what happened this morning was both different and phenomenal.

We repeated our session and were blown away with what followed. Just as she did yesterday, Beth threw back her head - but this time, her tone was deep, visceral, sustained, mournful, and ancient. When she had exhausted her breath, she nosed down before throwing herself into her next cry - no longer encouraged by us, but by natural calling. In that moment, I was drawn in to her her provenance, her ties to the wolf - and I could do nothing but throw my arms about her neck - loving her so completely in her truest form.

Maybe the seasoned breeder would scoff and pronounce that I'd just been moved by the cry of canine horniness. I'm telling you that I was moved by the Call of the Wild.