“Three dogs are too many anyway,” says Michel Jean, who talks about his trio of dogs.
1. Introduce the three Portuguese Water Dogs.
Eddie is an 11-year-old man in a corrugated coat. Solo is 10 years old with a curly coat. Nipi is a 3-year-old female with a hybrid coat. two perfect dogs; Three pack! They have their own rules.
2. Why did you choose these dogs?
I’ve had a Labrador for 18 years. A legend in Mont-Sainte-Anne! When he died, I didn’t want a dog that looked like him, so I looked for an active breed (I do a lot of sports with my dogs) and without shedding. Found, by chance, Portuguese Water Dogs. They have a good mood, are gentle and affectionate. They are very active, they are able to calm down. It’s medium in size so it’s not too bulky. Perfect size. Perfect dogs!
3. Where do these names come from?
Eddie was named after cyclist Eddie Merck because I love cycling. Solo is the name the breeder gave him when he gave it to me. Nipi means water in Innu. It’s a water dog!
4. Are you more a “cat” or a “dog”?
I love cats, but I prefer dogs. When I was young, at home, I had a dog. After that, I had a medium sized dog for 17 years and a Labrador for 18 years.
5. How would you describe the personality of your animals?
Eddy is gentle and sensitive. He has a lot of sympathy. When people feel depressed or angry, he feels it and will wrap their heads around them. He can stay that way for a long time and that helps them. It’s a pet therapy dog! He’s a little worried. He cries to take care of him. Thunderstorms are afraid. He will hide in the cellar. […] The soloist is very calm and solid: the leader of the group. She is always around and following me. Nebe is a different and unique female. She is very cute and has that “female” side, like a cat. It’s more fun and a good listener. The two women compete together for the title of group leader and it caught my attention! They drive the male, who cries back as he is led by two real Germans. (to laugh)
6. Do you have any stories about your dogs?
Solo is able to jump and open the door! Nebe thinks it’s a cat. Climb the furniture to look outside. She lies on the back of the sofa and rests on her back, the four irons in the air. All three cherry tomatoes love it so much that I had to put up fences in my garden. Real badger!
7. Do they make bad moves?
Solo is able to climb on the table through a seat. I can’t leave food on the table or else he’ll take it. It is their fault. Eddie, run away, like a Labrador! It doesn’t go far, but it still is.
8. Who takes care of your dogs when you leave?
Send them to the Hurle-vent kennel, a boarding house for dogs. Nice name for the author! When I take them there, the dogs get out of the car and are happy. […] I trust the owners, a wonderful young couple who do this out of passion.
9. Like a master, like a dog
Eddie has a “happy camper” side, always in a good mood, like me. Solo has a sensible and well-thought-out side, and so do I.
10. How do your dogs inspire you?
It is more than just inspiration. It is reassuring and calming. You are not alone with a dog. People underestimate what dogs bring us: humanity, warmth, sensitivity. They are beings who live with feelings that convey affection and we have a beautiful relationship with them.
About Michael Jane:
A well-known LCN news anchor, host, journalist, and author, he has written many excellent books including The wind is still talking about itAnd the kokumand his latest work, Teohita: huh?.
