July 22, 2004

Pet of the Week: Tooto

When Nibel Daddis first saw the black and white Pekinese, he fell in love. The original guardians had abandoned the silky furred canine that didn’t fare well with children, leaving the dog to live outside and hide under cars, foraging for food or the kindness of strangers. Not only was Tooto hungry, but the pup dragged his hindquarters from some old injury. Daddis brought the pooch hamburgers and tidbits and finally coaxed him in his car.

Daddis fondness grew for Tooto even when the canine bit him. One day Daddis took a close look at the animal’s face and the traumatized dog sunk his teeth into Daddis’ lip resulting in seven stitches. Not deterred by the infraction, the big-hearted Daddis kept the feisty Tooto and a deep friendship has resulted. Now 12-year-old Tooto has the run of the house when his arthritis isn’t bothering him and even sleeps with Daddis.

A charmer, Tooto talks with soft doggie growls to acquire his owner’s attention and “can’t sleep without snoring.”

But it doesn’t matter to Daddis, who sometimes feeds the canine special meals of steak and lobster. Tooto loves car rides, especially to Daddis’ mother’s, who lives nearby and always has special treats for the much-loved, pampered pooch. Tooto reciprocated the kindness by visiting Daddis’ mother when she was hospitalized and captivated the staff. Tooto loves to play fetch and doggie tug-of-war with a toy that looks remarkably like the salt and pepper pup.

Tooto still has back problems, but Daddis doesn’t mind the extra care of massaging the canine and administering medication. Daddis even carries the special-needs animal up and down the stairs of the split-level home they occupy in Almaden.

“I have it made.” Daddis said petting the affectionate pup. “Without Tooto I’d be talking to myself.”

The Pekinese is an ancient breed that once led the pampered life in the Imperial Court of Peking where they were carried around on the sleeves of royalty when the devoted companions were not contentedly lolling on a cushion or a lap. They are an intelligent, determined breed known for their affectionate nature and courage as a watchdog.

Perhaps this explains the fortitude of the extravagant coated Tooto. From down and out on the streets of San Jose to living the regal life of a well loved companion animal.

—By Jeanne C. Lewis

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