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Paws for Thought

By Maria Kowalski
February 2006, Abedare
A digital story from Capture Wales

Boz the Dog

The day an odd character, with melting brown eyes, enters Maria's life.

"Boz bounced into my life many years ago - a Jack Russell, from working parents. An odd character with melting brown eyes and a wrinkled worried expression. He soon got his fat little paws under the kitchen table.

At 12 weeks, disaster, he got Parvo virus. It was serious. The vet gave us little hope that he would survive. Family rallied, giving huge dollops of tender loving care with round the clock nursing.

He beat all odds. He survived.

The vet said it was the breed - 'a fighter with a tenacity for life' she called him.

All dogs are special but Boz left a huge paw print on my life. He became a protector to my children, always at their side whether they wanted him or not. Always in the thick of the family.

Boz became widely known - a regular at the Rugby Club! With enthusiasm he joined in sponsored walks for charity.

He loved visiting family by himself, travelled using crossings safely.

Then lovely Lily came along. Despite his arthritic hips, Boz - a sprightly 20 year old - managed to sire three adorable pups including son of Boz, our Dylan.

Sadly after 24 years as a faithful companion Boz died, the vet said he was the oldest Jack Russell that she'd ever seen.

I treasure my fond memories and feel that somehow Boz lives on through Dylan."

Maria Kowalski

Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I live - and have always lived - in Aberdare with my husband Mike and our children, Matthew, Robert and Katie.

What is your story about?
Boz, our faithful Jack Russell. Everyone has a "special" pet in their lives - this story is all about an extraordinary dog living with an ordinary family, recording sad and happy moments in time.

Why did you choose to tell this particular story?
It wasn't the story I had intended on telling but somehow Boz managed to get onto the screen! (He always did manage to get into the act!) I'd like to dedicate this short 'tail' to Evelyn, Dong, Cilla and Tom.

What did you find most rewarding about the workshop?
It was a wonderful experience to work with so many talented people. I felt very comfortable and relaxed about sharing my story in a happy and supportive setting. Digital storytelling is a great way of catching that magical moment and keeping it forever.

Comments

Barbara MCDonald, Park Ridge, USA.
I am a dog lover and a wannabe digital storyteller. This was touching and simple, but meaningful and sweet. This was a beautiful tribute to Boz, a pup worth hearing about.

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