Dear old Abel

by Anonymous
(Essex)

Abel came to me via a Rescue Society. She was a year old German Shepherd who had been kept in a flat above a shop, along with several children. Shepherds are my favourite breed.

I have since learned that the first two years with a German Shepherd are the worst. The next year proved to be an education - for both of us.

If there was trouble around Abel found it. If there was no trouble she invented it.

My free range hens suffered in that Abel would 'suck them to death'. She would place her mouth gently around their heads and suck. After the third untimely death, Abel was shown the body and the error of her ways was pointed out to her - verbally. This worked! We had reached an understanding.

The next 'crime' was to remove the netting from a large ornamental pond. It was meant to keep the herons away - but this proved no problem for Abel. Followed by numerous other 'crimes'.

She had a lovely time. I grew a few grey hairs!

Abel became my loving and constant companion. She guarded me against all comers when necessary.

After 11 years her end finally came. It was tragic and swift.

Would I do it again? Definitely.

Do I have any regrets? No, that is why I am sending this.