Barnegat Pirates Day

[Geoff]

I have found that Bandit can stop traffic and gather a crowd so I make good use of him in front of our rescue's tent. We have been to many "festivals" in the last 20 months ranging from a couple of hundred people to thousands of people. Last weekend was interesting to say the least. Since it was our first Pirate's Day I had no idea they had a REAL cannon firing blanks every half hour. ( and neither did many others) When the first BOOM occurred several pets went nuts, not to mention several children. Sam and Bandit were not fazed at all. I was very proud to have them at my side all day. Each half hour several more dogs and children freaked with handlers/parents beating a hasty retreat. Two weeks from now we are going to a Gun and Decoy show. They will be shooting clay pigeons with shotguns. That should be a walk in the park!

[HANNAH 8/2/07 & HONEY 7/2/08]

Wow Geoff how amazing how one dog can make such a difference to a child with a handicap. Thank you for realizing how important it was to that child, and great job Bandit. Bandit looks like he enjoyed his day, I think both of mine would have freaked at the loud booms, since they don't like fireworks, but both are not affarid of storms.

[LuvMyAbby&Kaela]

Thats quite the look he is sporting - lol! Glad he was able to help. :o)

[Geoff]

He is actually not thrilled with the costume but he did have a fun day.
The most satisfying moment is when I noticed a teen kid in a wheelchair staring at Bandit. I asked his Mother or attendant (never asked) if he wanted to pet Bandit. Even though the kid was paralized I saw his eyes widen and light up. I walked Bandit over next to him and she held his hand as it brushed over Bandit's back, Bandit arched and the kid actually purred. I think the kid and I shared the same warm fuzzy feeling.

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

He looks so happy!

[BetteB]

Love the picture! It looks like Bandit is enjoying himself. Glad he made you proud!