Jake's in the Doghouse

Jake has never been a gracious host to new people coming in our front door. Last night was no exception, although he went to extreme and unprecedented means to show his displeasure.

Before the 25 or so people arrived at our house for the monthly RAK (Random Acts of Kindness) meeting, David suggested I stay with Jake in the kitchen as people arrived. With every additional voice, his bark grew more frantic, especially since he couldn’t see who was coming in our front door.

At some point I let him loose figuring everyone was in and knowing he would quiet in about 45 seconds after he sniffed out the guests.

Instead in about 45 seconds, Sam said “Your dog just lifted his leg on Jan’s leg.” WHAT? This was the dog who had been instantly housebroken. The dog who would pee every time someone even looked at her had been our insane dachshund Schnizzy, long since gone.

Sure enough, Jan’s lower pant leg was wet and there was a large puddle on our hardwood floor. As David mopped up the pee with multiple paper towels, I offered Jan a change of clothes, figuring she wore about my size. She graciously declined, choosing to roll up her jeans leg instead.

Poor Jan’s woes didn’t end with the dog pee incident. She noticed that the glass of red wine my husband served her had a nick in the rim. This poor woman, who may not have been in my house since she recruited me for the babysitting coop some 27 years ago, may never want to set foot in my door again.

I can only commend her good nature in laughing at our warm welcome. Fortunately the meeting eclipsed the rocky start as we learned how January’s members had spent their $400+. Every one of us feels indebted to KC for starting the RAK concept in our neighborhood, an idea that is now taking shape in other metro DC neighborhoods. There is no end to the need out there. It’s all a matter of connecting those who have with those who have not. I’m so lucky to be a part of this group!

But meanwhile, Jake is in the doghouse.