memory lane, DNA testing

Identity Closure and Exaltation In Unbridled Cuteness

Charlie’s Corner is the domain of Charlie, the furry four-legged lady’s man of Market Common. Each month, he’ll share information to help all new, visiting, and existing doggie community members get the most out of life alongside their human companions. Here, we’ll feature his reflections on what it’s like to be a dashing downtown doggie, as he reminds all of us how to play well together. 

This October, Charlie tunes into the wisdom of the fall season and gets identity closure.

“Well, it’s certainly been a whirlwind of a few months for me as far as my identity is concerned. It all started back in the August edition when I had a DNA test done with Dr. Hardee in the Market Common to determine what breed of dashing doggie I am. 

But then I got played for a fool by some rogue squirrels in the park, who told me that my loving family had told them I was part pit bull and part St. Bernard. Ah I was so duped! (You can read all about my previous mis-adventures in the September and August editions.)

I cleared up the mystery finally when I went to Megan and confessed that I thought I was a part pit bull part St. Bernard for the past two months, and asked her what I really was please. 

She laughed so hard at my admission that she started to cry, and I was worried she might hurt herself. But all was well. And eventually she recovered her breath to tell me that I am…Are you ready…? 

Part Maltipoo and part poodle. There you have it— me! And wow when I heard that did it feel right in my doggie bones from the tip of my nose to the tip of my fluffy tail. It just goes to show that being yourself should feel both good, natural, and easy. So now I’m hard at work learning all about my particular heritage.

Let’s begin with the Maltipoo. Well, first things first, people— shameless self-flattery. A quick Google search revealed images of unprecedented cuteness, which, let’s be frank, with my dashing good looks and adorable charm, really isn’t surprising.

But I just mention it here because cuteness should always be celebrated whenever possible.

A Maltipoo is itself a hybrid designation resulting from breeding a Maltese with a miniature poodle. Possessing a fun-loving and affectionate nature (ah shucks! Ain’t that the truth), and adaptable in terms of environment— house, apartment, yellow school bus, tent— and we can get along with practically anyone, young, old, or anywhere in between.

I don’t do well alone or in the cold, but I could have told you that one, and very important for the reclamation of my self respect— we decidedly DO NOT drool. Mhmm. Non-drooler, right here. That’s right people. Record that one in the annals. 

I am also very intelligent. Well, of course. What other dog do you know of that writes his own column?

Well, that all made me feel warm and fuzzy on the inside in addition to being so warm and fuzzy on the outside. 

I’ll save any further research for next month. And in keeping with the spirit of the fall season, which is all about letting go of things that don’t serve us on every level— mental, physical and emotional—and supports inviting in change, I’m going to let go of any animosity towards those squirrels who subverted the knowledge of my true heritage and kept me in a proverbial tail spin for so many months. 

Embrace the change everyone, and celebrate cuteness.”

Until next time, 

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