Angus, My German Shepherd: The Guardian of Our Pack
When it comes to my German Shepherd, Angus, he's more than just a pet—a member of the pack. This strong and loyal protector ensures the safety and well-being of our furry family, including me and my loved ones. Here's a story that will make you appreciate the incredible role Angus plays in our lives.
Meet Our Pack of Dogs
Angus, the German Shepherd, is at the heart of our four-dog family. He's not just any dog, but the leader of our pack. While our 14-year-old Beagle mix, Lilly, is the true alpha, she prefers the role of queen regent. Nevertheless, Angus is fiercely protective, especially of those who belong to his pack, including me and my family.
Angus: The Pack Leader
Angus is a German Shepherd who takes his role as the leader of our pack very seriously. Unlike Lilly, who acts impulsively, Angus is stoic and cautious. He may be the boss, but he doesn't like children. Fergus, a 3-year-old Husky, is more 'dog friendly' and adores everyone he meets. Gin, a Pity/Lab/Hound mix, is fearless with other dogs and has an over-the-top prey drive. But when it comes to people, she's as sweet as they come.
The Early Mornings: Our Daily Walks
Due to the unique personalities of our dogs, we have early morning walks to ensure everyone stays safe and well-exercised. On weekdays, we cover 2-3 miles, starting at 5:00 am, while on weekends, we go on longer 5-mile walks by 7:00 am. I carefully choose routes to avoid people, other dogs, and especially kids, as grown adults often feel the right to pet my dogs without permission, and kids sometimes run up to them uninvited. The cooler morning air is perfect for our Husky, Fergus.
A Scary Encounter
One morning, around 5:15 am, while going for a walk with our dogs, a strange incident occurred. A truck pulling a lawn equipment trailer passed us, then backed up, and stopped. I stopped to check it out, and Angus noticed my alarm and started growling.
Angus quickly positioned himself between the stranger and the rest of us. Fergus and Gin, while not growling, were watching, ready to back him up. The stranger, trying to retrieve a lost dog (Reno), approached. Despite my insistence that Angus was not Reno, the stranger kept trying to call the German Shepherd. Fergus stood his ground as Angus went full 'Cujo' mode.
Frustrated and alarmed, the stranger threatened me and my dogs. Realizing the gravity of the situation, I had to assert myself. I told him I would shoot him if he didn't back off, and Angus sat down, still on alert. Ultimately, the stranger apologized and left, while my neighbor came out to check on us.
The Importance of Pet Security
Angus is a testament to the importance of pet security. Given the risks of theft and harm faced by our furry friends, it's essential to take preventive measures. If your pet is stolen, report the theft to local authorities immediately, provide proof of ownership, and spread the word through social media and local shelters.
Conclusion
Angus is much more than a pet—he's a full member of our family, protecting and guarding us with unwavering loyalty. His presence reminds us of the critical importance of pet security. Take the necessary steps to protect your pets, and remember that a guardian like Angus can make all the difference in the world.