March 2009

You were introduced to his apprentice, Otis, last September. Now, meet Hamish, the alpha dog of our household. Hamish oversees the homestead with the help of his two fellow canines, Otis and Max. We found Hamish nine years ago at a local dog rescue organization. We were recovering from the loss of our previoius two rescue dogs when we came upon Hamish and Max, who were sharing a cage and were only offered as a package deal. (Max looked older, which made his adoption more difficult for the rescue organization, but we wanted him, too!) Although his name at the time was Nelson, we renamed him “Hamish”, which comes from the Gaelic for “supplanter”, meaning “one who seizes and holds the place of another”. Hamish really did sieze our hearts at the right time.

We don’t know for sure, but we think Hamish is part Jack Russell Terrier and part Boston Terrier, giving him a healthy blend of traits—extremely intelligent, athletic, fearless, strong, lovable, laid–back and vocal. Hamish is a loyal companion and loves children. As he approaches the end of his first decade, Hamish is in his prime, guarding our domain and keeping the other dogs (and sometimes the kids) in line. Although he prefers stout ale and whiskey, due to his Gaelic origins, Hamish does appreciate a nice Cabernet or Bordeaux on occasion.

RIP July 11, 2016, Hamish is now with Max. He is survived by his good canine friends, Otis and Jax and his loving human family.

 
 
 
 
 
 
Hamish in his early years.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Hamish enjoys soaking up the afternoon sun.
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
Hamish (the Great Pumpkin) & Otis (the Hot Dog) prepare for Halloween.
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Max & Hamish brighten the holidays.
 
 
 
 
 
 

 
 
 
 
 
 
Hamish takes a break in his easy chair as Otis sits nearby.