cheerleading

i've heard about dogs that get nervous if you stare at their food, or won't eat if there's anyone around. because i used to think Sam was a nervous dog -- hah! -- i would often serve his food in a different room, then leave to give him some privacy.

well, now he's on a complete dry food diet and the last thing anyone should do is leave the room. in fact, there are days when he won't eat unless he's accompanied by at least one human who patiently listens to his crunching. usually it's my daughter, who fortunately likes perching on the stairs or whatever, observing him. then she'll fill his bowl with toys and try serving it to him as a dessert.