My person, Danny, can do lots of things well — like writing this story and listening when I tell her it’s time to go outside — but she can’t communicate like a canine. So I sat down with Norman, Squid and Velour to get the real scoop.
What is your favorite treat?
Norman: I’ve never had a treat I don’t like, but right now my parents and doctors have me on a special diet to help with my blood protein, whatever that means. Don’t worry, I still get whatever the kids drop at the dinner table — and, with a 2- and 4-year-old, that’s quite a bit.
Squid: My favorite treat is kibble. I get kibble treats when I train for new skills or need extra motivation.
Velour: Peanut butter!
What is your favorite toy?
Norman: I love playing with tennis balls! Two tennis balls at a time are OK. Four seems like a bit much. For me, three is the perfect number!
Squid: I love a squishy and squeaky toy.
Velour: I love all toys! I particularly love big fluffy toys so I can carry them around and chew on their ears.
Where do you sleep?
Norman: Where do you got?! At night, I’m in bed with my whole family. During the day, I’ll nap in a lap, in the car, on the couch, on the floor, in a chair, standing up, sitting down … I’m a great napper.
Squid: I sleep and nap in my crate or soft bed, and sometimes I sleep curled up on the edge of mom’s bed.
Velour: I sleep in a comfy kennel with a big soft dog bed and blanket.
Do you play like a regular dog?
Norman: Yes, absolutely! My favorite things are collecting toys and being chased.
Squid: Yes! I love to do zoomies and play chase with my dog sister, Sasha, and other friends.
Velour: Definitely! I love to wrestle with my dog brother, Ranger, and I would play fetch all day long if I could.
Where do you go when your people are out of town?
Norman: I go everywhere with my family! All six (soon to be seven) of us pile into the car: my parents, the kids and my dog brother, Huck.
Squid: I have a secondary handler who was trained just like my mom handler. I stay with her a lot! Sometimes I go to work with her. I can also stay with a puppy raiser who has been trained to handle a dog like me.
Velour: I have a secondary handler (my amazing Aunt Meredith) who I get to stay with when my parents are out of town. Aunt Meredith also works at the hospital, so I get to keep going to work when I’m with her.
Is there anything or anyone you don’t like?
Norman: Swimming pools make me nervous. I’m an excellent swimmer but need to keep a close eye on anyone in a pool.
Squid: I love everyone! I don’t like to swim, but I love to sit in a shallow pool of water.
Velour: I’m not very fond of water, but I’m getting more comfortable around it. I apparently didn’t get the memo that Labs are supposed to love swimming!
