Our handsome three-legged boy Tanner developed a new habit a few months ago: He starts howling to let us know the phone is ringing.
At first he only did this when we were both outside, which was very helpful because when we’re working in the gardens or in the barn across the drive, we can’t hear the phone ringing in the house. But we could hear Tanner’s quirky howls, so we knew the phone was ringing!
I say it’s quirky because it sounds like a coyote trying to howl while gargling with mouthwash. It’s, um, different. Definitely not your “Call of the Wild” kind of howling.
Now, in recent weeks, he’s doing this even when we’re inside the house. He’ll let it go one or two rings — as if he thinks that’s enough time for us to get to the phone, thank you very much — but after that, he’ll let loose with the howls.
We haven’t figured out the “why” here, but he knows we do appreciate his phone service.
Janet on Cape Cod says
October 2, 2017 at 8:12 pmAny chance you can record his howling and share it with us? I’m trying to imagine what a “coyote trying to howl while gargling with mouthwash” actually sounds like.
Tonya Allen says
October 3, 2017 at 3:30 pmHehe, that’s cute. I notice dogs tend to get bossier as they get older, always trying to remind you of what you should be doing, such as answering the phone, or taking them on their daily walk at the correct hour and minute, or…. 🙂 Tanner is indeed a very handsome boy. Good to know he’s got singing talent too.
Bonny says
October 3, 2017 at 11:25 pmI seond Janet’s request for a recording of Tanner’s Telephone Call Notification Service. You could put it on your youtube channel.
It’s so good to read about RDF. I miss the frequent posts although I understand.
Barb Ribinski says
October 4, 2017 at 2:43 pmDon’t you love it when one of your animals figures out what their job is? And that photo is great. He always seems to know when he is getting his picture taken and poses appropriately.