The Kit Bull Story — Season 1, Episode 8: To Crate or Not to Crate and the Hot trail

Hi, folks. This is Angela Lambru, creator of The Kit Bull Story. I want to personally welcome and thank you for joining us today. This is your podcast where animals have a voice. Follow Kit as she shares some fun and meaningful stories with a message for everyone. Now sit back and enjoy the episode.

It was an extra busy morning at Wild in the City Doggie Day Care. Rose had taken in some rescue puppies and a couple of older dogs that had arrived from Korea. At the same time, she tried to deal with Mr. Molestoso and Mr. Holder as diplomatically as possible.

“Uhh, I don’t want to bother Rose, but why does Nestor always come home with his clothes all ripped up? I hope it isn’t from the other dogs. His wardrobe is a total mess and that beautiful jacket I got him, (sigh) I’ll have to go shopping for him again. What can we do about this, Rose?”

“No bother, Mr. Molestoso. I'm pretty sure it isn't the other dogs. However, I have seen Nestor tugging at his clothes a few times and, well, maybe it might not suit him. Does he ever go without clothes? It might be worth a try to see how he likes being au naturel.”

“Oh, but he loves it and he looks so cute. He wears these adorable T-shirts while at home. It's a little more of like a casual look, you know. Maybe he doesn't like the color. I think I'll get him another not-so-bright one. I would dress all those new doggies you have in the most precious.”

“That would not be a good idea, Mr. Molestoso. Those dogs have been through a lot, especially the older ones. They're so afraid of being touched and currently are being socialized before we get them forever homes. Don't worry about Nestor. I'll keep an eye on him.”

Hopefully, Mr. Molestoso got the message. But now Rose had to contend with Mr. Holder. She was a bit wary of him and was uncomfortable with his treatment of dogs and how he always kept Mila confined.

“Hi, Rose. Here's a new choker for Mila. So, I heard you have some new dogs. And I was thinking of taking in another one to keep Mila company. If I get one, I will have to get another crate, though. Ooh, I'd love to see them. Can I?”

“Mr. Holder, hello. I'm sure Mila would love a companion, and I think that's a wonderful idea. But these dogs have been kept in small spaces, barely able to move, and what they need especially is lots of room to run around freely. Have you thought about letting Mila out of the crate while you're gone? You could keep her to just one room, you know.”

“What? And have her destroy all the flowerpots, and who knows what else she'll get into? No, not a good idea. Dogs have to be put in crates. That's how they learn. They used to live in dens in the wild, you know. Nah, maybe a new dog isn't a good idea.”

“Sure, crates have their benefits, and I know it's hard leaving your dog at home unsupervised while at work. Why not try leaving Mila in one room and just childproof it? Here's some information on the pros and cons of crating, and maybe you'll both be ready for another furry companion soon.”

While exploring the grounds at Wild in the City Doggie Day Care, Mila had picked up a scent and, with her cool buddy Nestor, had decided to investigate. They were on a hot trail, and her nose had led them to an area away from the main yard. As they approached, they met up with Kit, who was observing something herself.

“Ooooo, Oooo, here it is, Nestor. I found the source of this scent. Let's go see what it's about. Hey, Kit, my nose tells me there is something interesting in that house.”

“Mila, you'd better quiet down. Your dad is in the office with Rose. I saw him. You know how he feels about you getting all loud like that. I mean, I don't care how much you howl. I just don't want you to get into trouble.”

“That's so nice of you to say, Nestor. But I saw him leave, so no worries for now. And yes, Mila, there is something interesting in there. Those are the rescued dogs and puppies from Korea.”

“What Korean dogs? Wait, what now? I can't even express myself? Some nerve, Nestor. Look at you, you took off your silly outfit the minute we got here. I'm tired of everyone getting on my case. Makes me want to scream. I think I will. Oooo, Oooo.”

“Aww, Mila, that’s a good friend of yours, and he’s right, you know, and there’s no harm done. Ohh, go ahead and howl all you want. Just go for it, let it all out. Sometimes that’s all we need to do!”

“Grrr, take it easy. I’m just trying to help, and why shouldn’t I wear my own fur? You do, hmm! Come on, don’t you want to know more about the dogs you discovered?”

“Hey, guys, we shouldn’t be here. We’d better go. I’ll tell you more about it on the way. Rose says those dogs need a lot of TLC because they were treated so badly and that they definitely need good parents, uh-huh. That’s what she said. And the puppies are so cute, ohhh!”

Nestor and Mila left with Kit, wagging their tails and listening as Kit told them about the hardship the rescued dogs had faced in Korea, and how Rose said it was important for people to get involved. Not only in rescuing them, but in adopting them as well.

Join Kit and her friends on the next podcast, and thanks so much for tuning in.