Defender of the Realm

June 07, 2011

This past Sunday evening, I was out puttering in the back yard when I heard the dogs in my family raising a big fuss in the corner of the yard. We have two dogs: Oliver, a miniature schnauzer, and Bubba, a bull terrier. Although they have not always been very fond of each other, over the years they have become pretty good pals. They often team up together to provide home security for us.

Since Oliver is always a prolific barker, I let them go for a little bit, thinking the neighbor's dogs were in their yard as well. Thankfully, our neighbors are pretty tolerant with the barking because they are dog people too. After a couple of minutes though, I went over to check out what was happening.

Bubba had cornered a big black snake in our yard! The snake was coiled up and striking at him, cobra style. He was dodging in and out of there trying to get a good hold on the snake. Oliver is afraid of snakes, so he was off to the side providing support by cheering Bubba on. Bubba is quite strong, so I knew I could not pull him away from his prize snake; I grabbed a bucket of water and doused him, but he was still undeterred. I called my roommate for help, and we finally got Bubba rounded up and inside the house (snakeless).

Though Bubba did not get to keep his snake as a plaything, he did kill it. Before he was escorted into the house, he grabbed it up in his mouth and ran around the yard with it in a joyous victory dance.

Long story short, Bubba had a fun time with this escapade, but he was also defending his place. He was doing his dog thing, and he was doing it well. I just love dogs, and my life would be incomplete if I didn't have at least one dog around. If you are looking for a dog, the library has all kinds of books to help you. We have large books with facts about all breeds, and we have books with more detail about specific breeds. You can ask any of us at the front desk, and we will take you to our dog book collection. You too may one day need to be defended against a black snake attack, and having a Bubba will come in handy!

Sheryl W.
North Oak Branch