January 24, 2008

Animal magnetism

Smokey

By Jeanne C. Carbone
Staff Writer

New Almaden resident Ed Della Monica once had a dog problem.

Six years ago Della Monica’s wolf-mix, Squanto, became very mischievous, tearing up toys and causing trouble wherever he could. So Della Monica contacted Squanto’s previous trainer and asked what he could do to solve the problem.

Smokey is known for his big howl and friendly disposition. Photo by Jeanne C. Carbone

“They said Squanto was looking for attention and to get him a big brother,” said Della Monica.

Della Monica asked friends and searched the newspapers. Finally, he found Labrador retriever puppies for sale. And as what usually happens, a puppy found him. He didn’t quite look like the other labs but Della Monica knew the furry canine who looked more like a teddy bear was for him and named him Smokey.

“I was concerned when I first brought Smokey home,” said Della Monica. “Squanto is a huge dog, and I didn’t know how he’d act around a puppy.”

Della Monica didn’t have to worry for long. Squanto picked up the small creature by the nape of the neck, took him to a corner and licked him clean. That was the beginning of a beautiful friendship for Squanto, the wolf mix and Smokey who is a Labrador / Chow/wolf mix.

“I call Smokey Squanto’s adopted brother,” said Della Monica. “They play, sleep and eat together. They’re inseparable.”

And if imitation is the closest thing to flattery, Smokey does that as well. He mimics the howls of his adopted brother followed by his own unique bark. And that woof is heard all over New Almaden as Smokey likes to protect his home.

“Smokey’s quite a watchdog,” said Della Monica. “We know if anyone is here.”

But the best thing about Smokey is that he follows Della Monica all over the inside and outside of the residence, always watching to see where he is. Della Monica laughs, saying “the dog is obsessed with me” but you know that the feeling is mutual.