Thanks to all of you for your comments and support. Yes, Velcro was special. Some animals grow to become unique, but he was so from the start. Stef took him out of a cardboard box in front of the grocery store labelled “Free kittens to good homes” because he had “such big eyes!”.
And indeed he did-- big, deep, soulful eyes that gazed right into you. Otherwise he was just a two-fists-sized hairball. With needle claws.
That was some time late 1989 or early 1990. We always said he was a “1990 model year cat”.
He grew up surrounded by other animals, including the puppies mentioned above. Those dogs passed on and were replaced and supplemented by others. Today (er, well, Monday anyway) he ruled over a 7 year old Doberman and a 5 year old German Shepherd. In his time he also endured several cats, all of the usual “completely catlike” variety. And a host of birds, reptiles, ferrets, and others.
Most animals were roundly ignored, being beneath his dignity and therefore unworthy of notice. Dogs though required attention, and training. Perhaps he, kitten among puppies, had absorbed something of dog-ness. Or perhaps it was just one more special intrinsic trait of his. Either way, he participated in canine society. But only as the alpha dog. Puppies were easy. He just stood over them and looked down with those great, unwavering eyes. Older dogs, especially visitors, often required a more affirmative approach.
One guest brought her two matched Pugs for a weekend sleepover while she traveled. At home, these dogs had the run of the barn where they, unfettered by politeness or human restraint, frankly terrorized the barn cats. She brought them into the living room where Velcro was approaching, as he did whenever visitors arrived. Seeing a cat, they immediately darted toward him, obviously expecting the usual response. Instead Velcro just sat down, drew himself up to his full regal height, and looked down his nose at them. They came to a crashing halt, a jumble of 8 legs, right at his feet. The bolder one, regaining his stance, offered to nip at Velcro’s side and was given a smack across the muzzle. That settled the issue. They still ran around the house like idiots, but wherever Velcro went, a 5 foot buffer surrounded him.
Well, enough reminicences for now. **Washoe **asked for a picture, but I don’t know how to post one. Advice?
Thanks again to everyone.
