RSS
Home
Marley and Me: four paws up!
Print
Email
RSS
Subscribe
.jpg)
Welcome to Scottsdale's DOG HOUSE...
I have just returned from seeing Marley and Me, based on John Grogan's book of the same name. Despite the fact that Grogan (and the actor portraying him, Owen Wilson), hasn’t a clue how to raise a puppy, this is a FOUR PAWS UP flick. I took my dad, and we both cried profusely into our hankies in the last act (sorry Dad, just blew your cover). The many Labradors used for Marley were all characteristically exuberant; Jenifer Aniston, playing Grogan's wife, is adorable; and Owen Wilson makes a great and affable Grogan. I actually met Grogan in person in Connecticut when he kindly allowed a dog charity I was helping to use one of his book signing events to raise awareness for our cause. I figured I at least owed him the courtesy of seeing his film, which is also supporting the charity, American Humane.
Beware, spoiler coming… why does the dog always have to die?! This is Hollywood, for heaven’s sake, and a movie released on Christmas Day. Couldn’t they have given us a break and had the dog live for eternity instead of going to doggy heaven? It was nearly too much for me and dad to take when one of Grogan’s sons says at Marley’s funeral – I hope you like heaven and there are lots of good things to chew.
Despite the fact that you won’t learn any good dog training tips in this film - quite the opposite, in fact – there is one very helpful message. Even though Marley is ‘the world’s worst dog,’ Grogan never gives him up, like so many new dog owners are apt to do after they get their first dog and are overwhelmed. Marley ate through drywall, consumed an answering machine, and defecated in the ocean on the dog beach and was fined, to name only a small fraction of his infractions, and still Grogan didn’t take Marley back to the farm from whence he came. Grogan never gave up on that dog. In fact, the world’s worst dog was crowned 'a great great dog' upon his death and was deeply loved. Now there is a Christmas message for one and all.
I can’t help but throw in one training tip for all those first time dog owners out there who might be identifying with Grogan's experiences with Marley. Remember that if you are having problems with your dog destroying things, there are two answers: Give your dog plenty of exercise and chew toys, and give him boundaries. He does not need the run of the house. I have recently relearned this potty training my own puppy. Every dog is different, so it takes a little experimenting to see what works. Just like Grogan... don’t give up. There is always an answer.
*****
Please consult with your vet first before starting any training and behavioral programs.
*****
Related Articles:
Comments
