A letter to my breeders on my first birthday

To: Calum and Mairi Grant
Grandddach Kennels
near Turriff
Aberdeenshire
Scotland.

18th February 2011

Dear Calum and Mairi,

Gail has suggested that I could demonstrate what a well brought up pup I am by writing to you on my First Birthday and saying thank you for starting me off in life so well, and to let you know how I am getting on.

She also thought you might like to see some recent photos. I am a bit worried that you might think my coat looks rather shaggy. All I can say is that it does get brushed almost every day, but we are waiting for warmer weather before the hand-stripping starts again in earnest!

As you can see, I have grown to be a fairly tall and slender laddie, and the patch on my back is distinctive in shape and still quite black. I weighed 15 lb at Christmas, but I think I have put on a bit since then.  When we are out and about in Aberdeen, lots of people stop Gail to say what a handsome chap I am, with such fine markings.

I am a quick learner and it took no time at all for me to figure out that the toilet is outdoors. I easily mastered all that 'sit' 'stay' and 'come' stuff (did you know I won the 'longest sit' competition at puppy class?)  OK I admit it took me a little while longer to comprehend the meaning of 'NO' although the introduction of a 'sin bin' - otherwise the downstairs cloakroom - hastened the learning process. I do still love chewing things, but I have more or less got over my obsession with human feet. I'm afraid Gail has still not quite forgiven me for the cashmere sweater incident....

Good job that you got me used to travelling in the car when I was a very wee pup. I love going on trips with Gail and I have never ever been car sick. In fact, touch wood (that's what humans say, isn't it?) I haven't ever been sick at all; my only trips to the vets have been for vaccinations and a microchip.

I'm so glad that I went to live in a home with a fit and active human who likes taking me for lengthy walks in all sorts of interesting places where I can run free. You have no idea how much energy I have! (Oh, you do, apparently...)

Right from the start, I've always been adventurous and bold and not easily intimidated, although I have now learned that there are just a few very grumpy dogs around, and it is wise to steer clear of them. Gail sometimes tells me off for bullying tiny dogs, but, between you and me, I think the problem is she has difficulty telling the difference between exuberance and aggression!

So anyway, I think that's enough news from me. I have presents to open!  Oh, and Gail has baked me - or rather herself, I suspect - a special birthday cake* (see below).

I do hope all my terrier friends and relatives back at Granddach Kennels are doing well, and wish Oscar the best of luck at Crufts later this year!

Lots of love,
Granddach Beinn Alligin (aka Bertie).

*Thank you too to the Mama of my American sweetheart Katie, for sending Gail the cake instructions. She (Gail) did her best!


PS I believe there is some sort of a birthday party going on this weekend! To find out more, visit Asta or Lacie...