Hundreds of years ago, or perhaps thousands, humans discovered that every boy needs a dog. Since then, little boys everywhere have waged relentless campaigns to convince their parents that this is true.Less than a hundred years ago, it was easy to welcome a new puppy into one's home. Farm life offered lots of room to roam and cozy outbuildings for sleeping. Table scraps were considered appropriate dog food. The only grooming that took place was picking burrs from tangled fur in the fall.
This is not the situation today. Dogs live indoors with their families and are routinely treated to annual physical exams, expensive shots, heartworm and flea preventives, monthly trips to the groomer, and special diets. Leash laws dictate a fenced yard and dogs must learn acceptable indoor habits. Bringing a puppy home is a major life-changing event - especially when parents work outside the home all day.
Nevertheless, Gregory Michael Atkins, at about age six, succeeded in convincing his parents and grandparents he needed a dog. What kind of dog? A black dog that wasn't too big. The end result was a black cocker spaniel named Star Ball (since shortened to Star). It didn't matter that Star was all black with no white stars. She did like playing with balls and she was destined to become the star of all pets.
Star was a surprise. After interviewing several little black dogs, Aunt Judy determined that this particular one passed her test: Didn't try to get away, tolerated being turned on her back, and snuggled up to everyone who held her. Greg's grammy made the necessary arrangements. Greg was nowhere in sight when Star arrived. In fact, when he came downstairs, he took a cursory look at her and said, "Why, hello Bridget," thinking she was the little poodle they sometimes took care of. When told to look again, there was an instant flash of love. MY DOG!
And so she is. Star went where Greg went from that day on but she couldn't follow him to school in Athens. Scott now has custody but Greg comes home every weekend. Star is a little grey around the muzzle, somewhat arthritic, and can no longer hear. A faithful friend and Atkins family member. Every boy needs a dog.
