The Exalted Pet: Perfect Gentleman Rule #1: Built-In Tuxedo

Hansel, our dear Pappa, was our first greyhound, as you well know, rescued from Greyhound Pets of America, OC/GLA (www.fastfriends.org). If you haven't visited the website in the last 5 minutes, why not do so now (rather, after you're finished here, that is). He finally came home to us on my birthday in 2003 and literally changed our lives. As with all of our other children, he chose us during our visit to his foster home. Hansel has developed into many amazing things: a wonderful son, a doting brother, a lover of nature, and most of all, a perfect gentleman. Hansel respects his family and home, and asks permission for everything with his soulful brown eyes. His favorite things include:

Long hikes with daddy in Laguna,

Wooing the ladies,

Being a big brother,

Running,

Pooping

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(he's even fashioned a celebratory dance afterwards)

But most of all....ice cream.

The hounds celebrating Hansel's 7th birthday in June...

Upon reflection, I (meaning Princess and I) couldn't think of a more perfect way to immortalize Hansel than with a proud, sophisticated, traditional approach. This is our Hansel, incarnate:

"Pappa", Acrylic on canvas, 18x24, by Natalie Hirshman. Copyright 2007.

Hansel actually modeled before for a small stint in 2004, which were created for a fundraiser for GPA:

They were successfully sold at auction to assist the hounds. We didn't realize it at the time, but one of those hounds included his future brother, Derek.

Upon completion of his painting, late night and bleary-eyed, I awoke Hansel to show him his masterpiece and garner his approval. He lifted his head, gazed lovingly and deeply into my own eyes, and promptly proceeded to do what greyhounds do best...fall serenely and peacefully back to sleep.

Testimonial: "I love my painting! Mommy is the greatest artist in all of the land! Isn't she talented! I think everyone should have one or seven in their own home! You should contact her today!"