Rusty Stories

Adventures of Rusty

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  • Christmas with Rusty

    Herman is a tree, a pine tree to be exact.  Herman lives in a nice forest on Farmer Jones land.  Before Farmer Jones owned the property his father and then his grandfather and so forth.  Herman didn’t remember any of the Jones before, but Herman’s father did.  Herman’s father stood tall and majestic, the tallest Pine in the forest.  Herman’s mother was stouter and Herman thought daintier and just beautiful.  They all stood together and enjoyed the seasons and just being a part of life in the forest.

    One day Herman saw Farmer Jones approaching in his blue truck.  Herman hadn’t had much contact with humans beyond Farmer Jones and his family members.  However, today Farmer Jones had some men with him that Herman had never seen before.

    “Here they are.” Farmer Jones told the men.  “These trees have been here for a long stretch.”  The men looked up at Herman’s father and looked awe struck.  Herman felt the same way, his father was majestic all right. 

    “Honestly it would be the perfect tree for the Capitol and it would get Statewide coverage of the tree lighting and all the celebrations of the Holidays.” One of the Men said.

    Farmer Jones replied, “I don’t really give a fig about all that stuff, but my daughter is the Mayor and she asked me as a favor to consider donating one of my trees.  I’ve always said no in the past, just because I like to keep things as they are.”

    “Well, we appreciate it! And I don’t think we’ll find a better tree anywhere else.  Would you consider donating the one next to it for inside the Governor’s mansion?”

    Farmer Jones hesitated, but then replied, “I will. However, I would like you to provide me with four new saplings to replace the two you take.”

    The men agreed and said they’d come tomorrow with the truck and get the trees.  The truck drove away. 

    Herman looked with pride on his father and mother, the men sure thought they were something.  Herman didn’t understand all of what they meant in their conversation and he didn’t realize this was the last night he would spend in the forest with his parents.

    The next morning a large truck approached bigger than Herman had ever seen before! Farmer Jones’ truck followed behind it.  They all got out and then walked up to Herman’s father and put ropes around him.  Then shortly afterwards, Herman’s dad was falling! And someone shouted, “Timberrr!” Herman will never forget that or the sound of his father hitting the forest floor.

    They roped his father tightly with ropes and loaded him on the truck.  Then, if that wasn’t bad enough, they took his mother too in the same way.  They left just two stumps where the great trees had stood.  Herman was devastated and hearbroken.  His limbs drooped and he was lost.

    Farmer Jones stayed out in the forest after the men had left and looked at Herman standing there alone.  “I know its tough little tree.  But, I will be planting new trees as soon as the ground is no longer frozen and it won’t be long before they are half your size.”   Herman didn’t really understand what he was saying, but he sounded kind.

    Meanwhile at Rusty and Sam’s house it was busy.  Who are Rusty and Sam? Rusty is a dog with redish orange fur.  Rusty lived with Mrs. Wilson until she had to go into a Nursing Home and then Sam, the local veterinarian adopted Rusty.  Sam is single and has a house on Smith Lake.  Rusty comes to work at the Veterinary clinic every week day and almost goes everywhere else too in their small town as everyone knows Sam and Rusty.

    The reason their house was so busy is they were getting ready for a visit from Sam’s sister, Sarah and her son, Timmy.  Sarah’s husband, John, was in the Marines and is currently stationed in Afghanistan.  Sarah decided to come and see Sam and Rusty during her winter break as a teacher and stay over for Christmas.  Timmy was seven and Rusty loved having him come to visit.  Timmy loved to run and play and so does Rusty.

    “We need to get the house in shape for their arrival” Sam told Rusty, Sam always talked to Rusty like another person instead of a dog.  Rusty always listens. “Sarah told me Timmy is used to having a real tree, so I called Farmer Jones to see if he had one on his farm we can have.  I don’t like those commercial lots, I want somewhere that I know will plant other trees to replace the ones cut down.”  Rusty thought that was sensible, Rusty loved sniffing trees.

    It was a Saturday and Sam only had two appointments, so he went in and handled them and came back to the house to clean.  They had a housekeeper, Dana, Dot, the receptionist at the clinic’s sister.  But, Sam had specific things he wanted to do to get things set up for the visit.

    A few minutes later, Farmer Jones truck drove up to the house.  Sam went out to meet him.  Farmer Jones told Sam when he approached the truck, “Hello! You are in luck, when they took the two large trees for the Governor’s mansion, they left a smaller one.  I decided that tree looked a little lost by itself and would make a fine Christmas tree for you.”

    Speaking of lost, poor Herman was in the back of Farmer Jones’ truck and he was very lost.  He had no idea where he was, he’d never been out of the forest.  He had no roots anymore so how will he get water? What will happen to him?

    He felt himself being lifted out of the truck and brought inside a building! Then a few minutes later he was standing up and it was warm, not cold and snowy like the forest.  There was an animal looking at him, furry with redish hair.  Herman hadn’t seen an animal like that before. 

    Rusty looked at the tree, it was a nice one, but Rusty thought trees belonged outside.  Sam looked too and said, “We’ll get the lights and garland on the tree before they arrive, Timmy likes the ornaments best.”

    Farmer Jones had left already after being thanked for the great tree.  He wouldn’t take payment due to Sam and Rusty’s help with his Turkey around Thanksgiving time. 

    Sam went up to the attic and got the boxes of ornaments and decorations.  Then he (and Rusty) untangled the lights and got them on the tree and the pretty blue garland. 

    Herman now had a strange object wrapped around him, are they taking him somewhere else? But no, they just stood and looked at him.  “It looks nice, wait till Sarah and Timmy see it.” Rusty agreed, but still thought trees belong outside.  He laid down on the tree skirt after Sam put it around the tree. 

    In what seemed like no time, Sarah and Timmy pulled up in Donna’s taxi, Donna was another of Dot’s sisters.  Dot had 12 sisters and they all worked in town or had businesses in town.  It seemed like the whole town was populated by Dot’s sisters.

    Sarah, Timmy and Donna came up to the door.  Donna carrying most of the luggage.  Timmy had a backpack and Sarah a small carry on bag.  “Donna, I could have gotten that!” Sarah told her. “Nonsense!” Donna said, “I’ll not hear of it. You are Sam’s sister, a celebrity don’t you know.” Sarah smiled.

    “Welcome!” Sam told them.  “I have a surprise for you!” Timmy looked excited, “Presents??” he asked.  Sam laughed, “Not yet, still a week until Christmas.  Something else.”

    They walked into the house and saw the tree.  “A real tree!?” Sarah said, “I’m shocked.” Sam smiled, “I know how Timmy likes them and Farmer Jones gave it to us as a gift.”

    Timmy looked at the tree, “Its beautiful!” he proclaimed, “When do we put the ornaments on?”

    “Right now!” Said Sam and they got to work.

    The tree looked amazing when they got all the ornaments on it and then they all got changed and went to Saturday night mass.  Rusty didn’t come along, although Father Ben allowed Rusty to sleep in his office during mass if he did come. “You stay home with the tree.” Sam told Rusty, “We will get take out from Dollie’s café and I know she will have a doggy bag just for you.” You guessed it! Dollie is another of Dot’s sisters. 

    Sam left the TV on for Rusty tuned to the channel with the governor’s tree lighting ceremony on it.  “We will watch the replay on Youtube when we get home, but you can see it live!” Sam told Sarah and Timmy, “It’s Farmer Jones tree this year! The mayor is his daughter and she asked him.” Sarah answered, “Yes I heard Helen was elected Mayor when Mayor Jameson retired.” Sarah and Sam had gone to school with Helen Jones.

    The house got quiet when they shut the door and headed out.  Herman had all kinds of things hanging from his branches.  He had water now which was good, he was soaking it up.  On the box in the room with them there was a tree, Herman was shocked! It was his father, he was sure of it! His father had things hanging from his branches too but he was still outside. 

    There was a large crowd of humans around him.  The human in the box was saying. “In just two minutes we will light the official State tree. This year’s tree was donated by Jonas Johnson, the father of the Mayor of Vallyville.”

    Farmer Jones did have a first name Rusty thought!  Herman was mesmerized by the image on the box.  Pretty soon the announcer was talking again and then his father lit up! He was magnificent! So incredible, Rusty was amazed.  Herman too was surprised at how different and also spectacular his dad looked. 

    Then, the camera went into the Governor’s mansion and showed the tree in the front foyer.  It was his mother, Herman was sure. She looked amazing! Already lighted and decorated.  “Another tree from the Jones farm” Said the announcer, “Farmer Jones was reluctant to donate, but I’m sure glad he did. His trees are some of the most beautiful I’ve seen in years”

    Herman agreed his mom and dad look amazing, but he missed them and the forest a lot.  It felt strange to be inside and not out in the nature that he loved. He wondered if they’d get him back outside after they were done?

    They came back from mass in high spirits with Dollie’s take out food.  “I’m going to be a shepherd in the manger scene!” Timmy told Rusty.  Rusty barked in response.  Rusty was in the manager scene too, he plays the camel that comes with the wise men.  He is obviously shorter than a camel, but people think its fun to have a dog/camel.  The other animals come from local farms.

    Herman was not in high spirits, his water was running low and he felt dried out and was losing needles.  He missed the forest and his parents and the seasons.  Rusty could tell something was off about the tree.  Rusty went over to Sam after they’d eaten and looked at him and whined.  “What’s wrong buddy?? Sam asked.  Rusty walked over to the tree and sat down.  Sam followed and checked the water underneath.  “Thanks for reminding me, I’ll get more.”

    Herman felt better with more water but he still was losing needles and it wasn’t the same as having constant water through his roots.

    They all went to bed early as Timmy and Sarah were tired from travelling and Sam and Rusty had a busy day.  Rusty normally sleeps in a bed in Sam’s room, but tonight he slept on the foot of Timmy’s bed.  Timmy liked to have Rusty nearby and Sam didn’t mind.

    About 3 am, Timmy got out of bed.  Rusty looked up and Timmy said, “I can’t sleep, I am going to sit by the tree.” Rusty followed him. 

    “I had a dream.” Timmy told Rusty when they were settled out by the tree. “I was in a forest and this tree was there with two other trees.  It was a sunny day and it seemed just beautiful.  My dad was there too he was walking with me through the forest.”

    Rusty thought it sounded like a nice dream and knew Timmy missed his dad.  “I wish my dad would hurry up and come home.” Timmy said, “I’d like him to see me dressed up as a shepherd.”

    Herman listened to them talking and thought the dream sounded amazing.  He’d love to be out in the forest on a sunny day with his folks.  He wondered again what would happen to him after Christmas.

    It was as if Timmy heard his thoughts.  “Rusty, I’m sad for this tree. It won’t get to be in the forest anymore.  I wish it wasn’t like that.” Rusty didn’t know a lot about trees but he listened.

    The next day they spent the day at the Christmas fair Rusty went along.  It seemed every booth proprietor had a treat for him.  After about 3, Sam started collecting them instead of allowing Rusty to eat them all.  “You won’t fit into your camel costume!” Sam told him.

    When they got back they had roast beef Sam had put in the crock pot and pie from Dollie’s. Next week there were only 4 days until Christmas! Christmas was on Friday.  The Manger scene is on Thursday evening and Friday morning.  Rusty and Timmy were excited.

    “I wish dad could come.” Timmy told everyone at dinner. “I know, honey.” His mom told him, but his tour isn’t up until February. 

    “I can still wish.” Timmy said. 

    “Pray about it.” Sam told him.  “Prayer works better than wishes.”

    “I will.” Timmy told him.

    Timmy came with Sam and Rusty to the vet clinic on Monday and he and Rusty had a great day playing with each other and some of the dogs who came in for appointments. Timmy also cuddled with Fluffy.  Fluffy loved Timmy.

    Rusty took a nap when Timmy was with Fluffy.  He felt they needed space and so did Rusty.

    The day passed normally and they went out for Spaghetti at Luigi’s that night.  Luigi always sent a meatball home for Rusty.  Rusty stayed home by himself that night when they went out.  He decided to spend time by the tree.  He thought the tree looked a little rough and was losing more needles.

    Herman noticed all the humans left and only Rusty was left.  Herman had heard him called that by the others.  Rusty seemed sympathetic toward Herman.  Herman appreciated that but he still was feeling really dry and losing needles quickly.  Herman didn’t think he’d make it much longer unless someone did something.

    Rusty wished he could help the tree.  It seemed so strange to Rusty to bring a tree indoors and this particular tree really seemed to want to be out in nature.  Dogs are sensitive to these things, at least Rusty was.

    The group returned from Luigi’s and Rusty had his meatball.  Then they went to bed because the next day was Christmas Eve and they were going to visit “Sunny Rest.” Then, Timmy and Rusty had to be at the manger scene.

    Rusty slept by Timmy again and he woke up at about 3 am and went out by the tree again. Rusty followed.  Timmy told him, he had another dream. “This time, the tree was by itself, but outside and my dad was there and he was decorating it.  They both seemed pretty happy.  I wish the dream could come true.” Rusty wished it could come true too.  Both the tree and having Timmy’s dad back. 

    Timmy fell asleep on the sofa and in the morning they all got up and had pancakes.  Rusty got a small pancake of his own.  Then, they all headed to Sunny Rest.  Rusty loved going to the Nursing Home.  He got to see Mrs. Wilson and the other Residents.

    They had brought candy and presents for everyone.  Sam’s patients donate items and other people in town help too.  Plus, Dollie had donated a few plates of cookies.

    The residents loved their gifts.  Mrs. Wilson got some yarn and new knitting needles. “I’ll make you a sweater.” She told Rusty.  “The Inspector” who was a former Police Detective got a deer stalker cap.  He was a big Sherlock Holmes fan and loved it.  “I picked it out myself.” Sam told him. 

    The other residents all enjoyed the cookies, presents and attention.  They stayed 3 hours and then told everyone they had to go because Timmy and Rusty were due at the manger scene.  “Bring us pictures!” Mrs. Wilson told them. 

    “We sure will!” Sam answered.  “Merry Christmas everyone!”

    Rusty and Timmy got to the manger scene just in time and got into their costumes.  There was a Narrator who read from Luke and they just were supposed to stand still.  They were at the outside scene for a while and then during Mass they’d stand inside.  The announcer said: “And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.  (Timmy only had the one sheep, but he was watching.)  An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord showed around them and they were terrified.  But, the Angel said to them, “Do not be afraid.  I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people.  Today in the town of David, a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord.”

    He also read from Matthew 2 1-2, “After Jesus was born in Bethlehem in Judea, during the time of King Herod, Magi from the east came to Jerusalem and asked, “Where is the one who has been born King of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” The announcer explained that wise men and Magi are the same thing and that the wise men brought their camels with them.  Rusty stood up a little taller when he said that.

    After mass was over, they went back to Sam’s house and opened a few presents.  Timmy got a Lego Flower he had been wanting from Sam.  Some kids thought it was odd that Timmy didn’t want to get the space ships and popular Characters, but he really liked nature.  Rusty got a new chew toy and a bone that is safe to chew from Sam and a Santa Claus squeaky toy from Timmy.  They had fun playing tug of war and fetch with it.

    Sam got a new pair of Leather slippers from Sarah.  “I noticed your slippers are barely holding together.  Sam agreed, “Yes I’ve had them since college. But I can’t throw the old ones out yet, I need to get used to these.” Sarah laughed, “If you are still using them next time I come they are going. 

    Sarah got a hat and mittens in a pretty color of purple made by Daisy (you guessed it! One of Dot’s sisters.) “These are lovely.” Sarah said, “Thank you Sam and Rusty.” Sam always puts Rustys name on the tags.  “I really liked the color.” Sam told her. 

    They all got ready for bed after that and Timmy was excited to see what Santa would bring.  Rusty slept by Timmy again that night.  “I wonder if I’ll have a dream again about my dad and the tree. I seem to have one every night.”

    Rusty didn’t know, he mainly dreamed about chasing sticks or running around finding things to sniff.  Sam told him his legs move sometimes when he dreams.  Sam thinks its funny. 

    Later that night, Rusty heard Timmy getting up again. “Rusty, I think I heard something, maybe its Santa!” Timmy went out the door and down the hallway toward the living room.  It was very dark and there was no light from the tree which was unusual. 

    They got out into the living room and Timmy said, “That’s weird, its so dark, where is the tree?” That was odd, thought Rusty, who would steal a tree? Rusty had to get Sam.  He went down the hallway to Sam’s room and woke him up.  Rusty whined to get his attention and Sam followed Rusty. 

    “What on Earth?” Sam said, “Who would steal our tree and leave the presents?” Just then there was a knock on the door.  “Maybe it’s the thief bringing back the tree.” Sam said.

    He answered the door and they heard him say, “Hey! What are you doing here?” And then the door opened further and Timmy’s dad came in! “Dad!!” Timmy said and ran into his arms.  “I missed you so much.”

    “I missed you too buddy! It is odd that I got leave right now.  My commander called me in and said he couldn’t explain it, but they gave me 2 weeks leave. I was going to call and then I thought I’d like to surprise you.”

    “Well you certainly did!’ Sam said, “Wait till Sarah sees you.”

    “Sarah sees you now.” Sarah said from the doorway of the living room. “I heard all the commotion. Ryan! I’m so happy to see you!” She ran to him and they embraced and kissed much to Timmy’s dismay.

    Ryan sat down after all the greetings and Sam got him a cup of hot chocolate and some of Sarah’s cookies.  “Hey I was going to ask you, why do you have your Christmas tree outside?”

    “What?” Sam said

    “When I approached the house, there is a Christmas tree out there with all of your ornaments and garland and everything on it.  And I noticed you don’t have one in here.”

    They all got dressed in coats and boots and went out to look.  Sure enough the tree was out there, all decked out and in the ground again. 

    “This makes no sense,” Sam said “How can the tree be alive again?”

    Timmy told them all about his dreams lately.  “It’s still a mystery as to how the tree is now alive.” Sam said. 

    “Couldn’t we just call it a Christmas miracle?” Timmy asked. 

    Herman was delighted to be outside with his roots in the ground.  He did not know how it happened.  One minute he felt dry and horrible, the next he was outside and had roots again.  He had no idea how it happened. 

    “I guess we’ll have to call it a miracle.” Sam said, when nothing else makes sense.  Rusty was thrilled the tree gets to live and looked forward to laying under it in the nicer weather.  They all had to go to back to bed then because because Rusty and Timmy had one more performance at the nativity scene for morning mass. 

    Timmy said to Rusty when they got back in bed, “Maybe its all a dream and we’ll wake up and my dad won’t be here and the tree will be back in the house.”

    Maybe Rusty thought, but it seemed pretty real to him.

    The End

  • The Christmas Tree

    https://rustystories21.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/herman-is-a-tree.docx

  • Rusty Saves the Bear

    A little background, Rusty is a dog. He has orange hair, mixed in with his brown and grey coat. Hence his name. Not terribly original but Rusty is okay with it. Rusty had lived with Mrs. Alvera Wilson since he was a puppy. However, Mrs. Wilson had a stroke and had to move into Shady Hills Nursing Home. Therefore, Sam, the local town veterinarian adopted Rusty.

    Rusty was 5 years old now and very much enjoyed his life with Sam. Plus, every Thursday, they go to visit Mrs. Wilson and the other residents at Shady Hills. Rusty also gets to go to work with Sam everyday. Sam’s staff consider Rusty a part of the staff. Rusty does too!

    When Sam isn’t taking care of animals he enjoys being outdoors. He loves camping and fishing. Rusty goes along of course. The only problem is, Rusty is afraid of water. This seems strange for a dog, in that most dogs just dive in and dog paddle. But Rusty cannot do it, he doesn’t like being on a boat or even getting too close to shore.

    Sam understands Rusty and is accommodating of his water phobia. Sam camps a distance from the shore of whatever lake they go to and when Sam goes fishing, Rusty spends his time on shore “guarding the camp”. Plus Rusty loves all the smells and sounds of the camp ground.

    They arrived at camp late on Friday night. Sam set up the tent and they had a light meal, a sandwich for Sam and kibble for Rusty. Then, Sam told Rusty, he’d like to head out fishing early the next morning, so he’d like to get to bed. Rusty agreed, it had been a long day and Rusty spends a lot of time on their drives sticking his head out the window. Fresh air can make a dog tired!

    The next morning, Sam woke up, made coffee on the fire and got them breakfast. Eggs and bacon for Sam and kibble for Rusty with a little bacon on the side. Then Sam said he’d be heading out to fish. Rusty planned to sniff around the area and then maybe take a nap. Rusty never went to far away as he enjoyed his life with Sam and didn’t want to get lost.

    Sam headed out and Rusty began his sniffing, the area they were in was pretty deserted, so no other tents were around them. This allowed Rusty a pretty nice area to sniff. Suddenly, Rusty heard a weird sound, something like “eeeeeeeeooooooooo” Rusty had never heard anything like it, was it a bird? Rusty looked around the area and didn’t see anything unusual.

    He kept looking but then didn’t hear the sound again, so he headed back to the tent to take a nap. Soon after, Sam returned with some fish. “I got some nice perch!” Sam told Rusty. “I’ll cut them up for lunch.” Sam fried them up and Rusty had a bit too. Then, Sam laid down and had a nap too and Rusty napped again. A lot of fresh air when one is camping.

    Sam woke up and told Rusty, “I’m going to get cleaned up and head to mass. I saw a church along the lake with services at 4pm. I don’t think this church will let you come the way Father Mike does at St. Timothy’s.” Rusty was okay with that as it would involve taking the boat. Sam was Catholic and went to mass each weekend. At St. Timothy’s Rusty was allowed to come and sleep on the pillow in Father Mike’s office.

    Sam headed out a little while later and Rusty started a new sniffing routine. “eeeeeeeeoooooo!!” There it was again! Rusty again began hunting for the source. Two more times he heard the sound and it seemed to be getting more desperate.

    Rusty went further into the woods than he normally would to try to find out where the sound was coming from. Pretty soon, he came upon a group of trees and under one of them was a baby bear! The bear had a very sore looking foot and was yelling to make it known. Rusty had to get Sam! But Sam was at church across the lake!!

    Rusty headed back to camp to try to think of something. When he got to camp a group of guys had arrived and set up camp a ways down from Sam and Rusty’s tent. They were in the process of launching their boat. Rusty thought of getting their attention and seeing if they could help, but they were not veterinarians like Sam.

    Rusty sighed, he had to get on the boat! The guys were in the boat and about to take off, three of them. They were all facing the lake, so Rusty quickly climbed in and ducked under the bench on the side of the boat. Soon they were gliding across the lake.

    “So I heard there is a great spot just in front of the Catholic church.” One guy was saying. “Makes sense, ” Said another, “God made the fish.” Rusty was in luck, if they stopped in front of the church he could get to Sam!

    they began to slow down after a bit. “There’s the church” one said, “Where’s the spot?” Rusty knew he had to get their attention so they took him to shore to get to Sam. Rusty came out from under the bench and barked. They jumped at the sound. “Hey! Where did you come from?” Rusty barked again and looked toward the church.

    One of the guys looked at the tag on Rusty’s collar. “Rusty” he said, belongs to a veterinarian named Sam. Rusty again barked and looked at the church. “He really seems to want to go to the church.” one of the guys said. “Well Rusty, I don’t know what you want with a church, but we’ll head over there.” As they approached the shore, Rusty saw Sam’s boat.

    One of the guys hopped out as they got to the dock, “Well boy where do you want to go?”” Rusty was already running toward the church. “Hey!” wait up” The guy said and followed Rusty. Rusty had gotten to the doors of the church by then and the guy caught up and opened it for him. Rusty ran into the church looking for Sam.

    The guy was still following and looking around at the mass in progress. Rusty spotted Sam and headed toward him. Rusty nudged his leg, not wanting to bark in church. Sam looked down and was shocked. “Rusty!” he whispered “what are you doing here?” Sam quietly left the service and headed out to the front of the church.

    The guy who had followed Rusty was there and explained, “We were going fishing and didn’t notice him on the boat. Then he came out and started barking and wanting to go to this church.” Sam looked down at Rusty. “Something must be really wrong to get you on a boat.”

    “He’s afraid of water..” Sam explained to the guy. “I’m Sam, Rusty’s owner.” “I’m Alex.” the guy said. My “My friends Adam and Paul came up here to fish.”

    “Well, ” Sam said, “I’d like to go in and finish the service and then I’ll take Rusty back and find out what’s going on.” Sam headed back in and Rusty followed until the door and then laid down on the step.

    Alex went over to Rusty, “I can stay with you, if you’d like.” Rusty really didn’t need a companion now that he’d found Sam. Alex’s friends came over to them and said, “You haven’t had enough of church, Alex.? I thought we were fishing.”

    Alex smiled, “I never have enough of church , that’s why I’m becoming a priest, so are you two.” They smiled back, “Yes, but today we are fishing!” Alex countered, “So were Peter and Andrew when Jesus called them.”

    After a little bit, Sam and the other parishioners came out along with the priest. “Alex, Paul and ‘Adam, I thought you were fishing!” the Priest said to them. “We were, Father Jim, but this little dog had other ideas.” Alex told him.

    “Yes!” Father Jim said, “Its the little dog who disrupted my mass.” Sam came over and apologized. “Sorry Father, he must have needed me.” Rusty had forgotten the injured bear in all the excitement. Rusty barked and started toward the boat. Father Jim replied, “Yes, he seems to want to go.. I shall pray the problem is easily solved.” Sam smiled “Thank you Father.”

    Alex told the guys, “We are following them back. I need to know what is going on.” Paul laughed, “So much for fishing.”

    They all glided across the lake, Rusty hiding under the bench. As soon as they got back, Rusty ran from the boat and Sam and the guys followed him to the tree and the bear. Sam looked around, “I just want to be sure its mother isn’t nearby. You do not want to get between a bear and her baby.’

    Alex told him, “I don’t see any sign of life but eh baby.” Sam asked, “Alex can you go to the tent and get my bag? It’s red.’ Allex said he could. When he returned, Sam cleaned the wound and put some pain medicine on it and bandaged it. The bear was cooperative, seeming to know Sam was there to help.

    Sam and the guys and Rusty left the bear and headed back to camp. “I hope its mother comes back.” Alex said. “We’ll check in the morning.’ Sam said. The guys and Sam had a nice time hanging out by the campfire talking about the seminary. Sam had considered the priesthood before going on to veterinary school..

    When they woke the next morning, Rusty walked over by the tree and the baby bear was gone. “The mother probably came.” Sam told Rusty. They packed up and said goodbye to the guys. As they headed out of camp in their truck, they saw a mother bear up on a hill with two cubs. One cub had a white bandage on its foot.

    “Rusty you were very brave. I know you don’t like water but you helped the bear.:” Rusty didn’t hear him, he had his head out the window and was enjoying the breeze.

  • Rusty Saves a Turkey

    It was 1 week before Thanksgiving and Rusty was excited.  Rusty loved Thanksgiving and always got his own little plate of food with Turkey, potatoes and stuffing.  For those who aren’t familiar with Rusty, he’s a dog.  Rusty lives with Sam, the local veterinarian. 

    Rusty got adopted by Sam after his previous owner, Mrs. Wilson had to go into a Nursing Home. Rusty and Sam still visit her every Thursday and if Sam has to go somewhere that Rusty cannot come, Sam brings Rusty to stay at the home.  Normally the Shady Rest Home doesn’t allow live in pets, but Rusty is special. 

    Rusty also always goes to work at the clinic with Sam.  Sam’s assistant, Molly and the receptionist, Dot, consider Rusty a part of the staff.  Rusty loves the clinic and looks forward to going there.  The only issue for Rusty is Fluffy, the white Persian cat that lives at the clinic.  Fluffy was another pet of a now resident of Shady Rest and the staff consider Fluffy an important part of the clinic.  Rusty does not. 

    Fluffy is usually up on “her” filing cabinet behind the front desk, where her bed is located. To Rusty, it appears that Fluffy is looking down on everyone from her special perch.  Sam and the staff just keep the two apart.

    It was a normal Thursday at the clinic and Rusty was napping in his bed in Sam’s office when Farmer Jones came in.  Rusty heard his voice and immediately came out.   Farmer Jones makes his own venison meat sticks and always has a treat for Rusty.  Farmer Jones allegedly has a first name, but Rusty had never heard it. 

    Rusty noticed Farmer Jones was carrying a large cage with him, which was unusual, as he normally brings in his German Shepherd, Max.  Rusty and Max enjoy playing together.  Max was way too big to fit in a cage.  “I need some help,” Farmer Jones told Dot. “If Sam can fit me in.” Dot looked puzzled by the cage too, but said, “Sure Farmer Jones., He’ll have a break right after he’s done with his current appointment.  Just have a chair.”

    Rusty followed Farmer Jones to the waiting room and sat down expectantly by him.  “Sorry boy,” Farmer Jones told Rusty, “I don’t have any treats today, I’m too upset.”  Just then, the cage made a strange noise, sounding like “Gobble.” Rusty looked inside the cage and to his surprise saw a large bird with something hanging from it’s neck. 

    Rusty lay down next to him and waited for Sam.  Pretty soon Dot brought Farmer Jones, Rusty and the mysterious bird into the exam room.  Sam looked in the cage and told Farmer Jones, “Well this is a change for you to bring in a Turkey.”  THIS is a turkey? Rusty thought? He had never seen one before it came out of the oven on Thanksgiving.

    “I’m in a right mess.” Farmer Jones told Sam, “I’ve raised this bird from a chick for our Thanksgiving meal.  Now it seems like it’s sickly.  I don’t want my family to get sick, so I thought I’d have you check it out. On top of that, my best laying hen has stopped producing.”

    “Well Turkeys aren’t my normal prevue, but I can run some bloodwork and do an exam.” Sam opened the cage and took the turkey out.  It drooped over.  “Well it certainly seems like something is wrong.” Sam said after he poked and prodded the turkey a bit. “Lets get some blood drawn and see what we see.  I can also come out and look at the hen if you’d like.”

    Farmer Jones replied, “No I’ve got Julie looking over my flock, she comes every 3 weeks. If it keeps up, I’ll have her look at the hen.  But, call it instinct or a gut feeling but I feel like the two are related somehow.”

    Sam said, “Julie is the best vet tech I’ve ever had, don’t tell Molly I said that! What she can’t answer on a egg problem hasn’t been asked.”

    Farmer Jones nodded, “She is good for sure, my egg production has gone up since she’s been helping me out.  Can I leave the turkey with you and come back? I have some work I need to get to at my farm that can’t wait.” Sam agreed and put the turkey back in the cage and brought it toward the back for Molly to do the bloodwork.

    “When you are done drawing the blood,” Sam told her, “We will head out for lunch.” Every year Sam took Dot and Molly out for lunch on the week before Thanksgiving to show how thankful he was for them. 

    Rusty was not attending due to a “No Dogs allowed” rule at the restaurant.  “Sorry boy,” Sam said, “I’ll bring you a doggy bag.”

    They headed out shortly thereafter and locked up the office.  If Rusty had to go he had a doggy door to use. 

    Rusty went to lay down in his bed while they were gone until he heard a strange sound coming from the other room.  It sounded like “Gobble!!” “Gobble” “GoooooBle” Rusty went to investigate and found it was coming from the turkey’s cage.  The turkey was banging its beak on the cage door and gobbling up a storm.  Rusty figured it wanted out of its cage.  So, he used his nose to lift the latch and the door swung open. 

    A mass of feathers and gobbling flew by Rusty and headed out to the lobby area.  Rusty followed.  The turkey looked healthy now.  When Rusty got to the lobby the turkey appeared to be trying to throw itself through a window.  Rusty knew that wouldn’t end well.  Rusty barked and got the turkey’s attention and motioned for it to follow him.

    The turkey seemed to understand and came up behind him.  Rusty lead the turkey to the doggy door.  Rusty went first and held it open with his tail for the turkey.  The turkey hopped through.  It was a cold blustery November day, not a good day to spend a lot of time outside. Rusty brought the turkey to the big pine tree it had branches that reached the ground and a sheltering area underneath.  This would keep the turkey out of the wind.  The turkey followed Rusty and Rusty got it settled under the tree.

    Now what? Rusty might be a dog, but he got the idea.  The turkey was playing sick to avoid being dinner.  Rusty could see its point, however, he didn’t think Farmer Jones or Sam would like his part in hiding the Jones’ family Thanksgiving main course.  Rusty was at a loss as to what to do.  For right now, he decided to leave the turkey under the tree and head back into the clinic so he was there when Sam and the others returned.  The turkey appeared to be settling into a nest like area under the tree and resting. 

    When Rusty headed back into the clinic, Fluffy was off the filing cabinet and heading toward the doggy door.  This was weird, Fluffy never goes outside when  its not nice out.  Fluffy is a fair weather cat.  But, Rusty had learned never to involve himself with cats, he’s been swatted on the nose one too many times.

    Sam found Rusty in his bed when he got back.  “Hey boy,” Sam told him, “I got you a piece of steak and some potato. Chef Tim, told me he made it especially for you.” Rusty was well known in town.

    Rusty was excited about the treat, but worried about when Sam discovered the missing turkey. 

    Sam had an appointment with Miss Millie and her poodle, “Pierpoint” immediately when he got back, so he didn’t look in on the turkey.  Rusty avoided Pierpoint almost as much as cats.  To his mind, poodles and cats were in the same league.   After the appointment, however, Molly came and told Sam the bloodwork was back and all looked normal. 

    “Can you call Farmer Jones and tell him?” Sam asked, “I’ll talk to him when he gets here.”

    Meanwhile, Rusty headed out to “do his business” and check on the turkey.  But, when Rusty got under the tree, the turkey was gone! Rusty was at a loss as to where the turkey could have gotten to, but had to go back inside.  At 3:00 every Tuesday Sam and Rusty go to Shady Rest to see the residents and specifically Mrs. Wilson. 

    When Rusty came in, Farmer Jones was there and he heard Sam say, “I don’t’ get it, it was here when we went to lunch.” Farmer Jones responded, “Well its not here now! And I have no Thanksgiving turkey!” Sam put his hand on Farmer Jones shoulder and told him, “We’ll search the clinic and the grounds it will turn up.  Rusty and I are going to Shady Rest.  I’ll look along our route and look some more when we get back.  We’ll find it.”  Farmer Jones sighed, “I hope so, honestly, this turkey has been more trouble than its worth.”

    They headed out to Shady Rest driving slowly along their route to look along the roadway and into the fields to see if any lost turkeys were seen.  There was nothing, a herd of sheep in one field, cows in two more and some horses in another.  Their town was very rural so filled with animals of all kinds, but they didn’t see one turkey.

    Upon arriving at Shady Rest, the receptionist, Junie, Dot’s sister greeted them! “Hello!! Dr. Sam and Rusty! The residents are so excited to see you both!!” She lead them into the main room where everyone was gathered.  “We are excited to see them too.” Sam told her and Rusty barked. 

    Everyone called, “Rusty! Over here!” when they saw them.  Rusty made the rounds getting pets, treats and good wishes wherever he went.  Sam walked over to Mr. Green who everyone called, “The investigator”.  Mr. Green had been the Sheriff for years and was known for solving many a crime in his day.  “Have I got a case for you!” Sam told him, “I’m missing a turkey.”

    The investigator looked up from the crossword he had been working on and said, “A turkey at this time of year! He’ll be lucky if he doesn’t wind up on someone’s table!’ Sam responded, “He was supposed to be on Farmer Jones table, but he somehow got out of his cage and has disappeared from my clinic.”

    “Well, we need to look at this like any other crime, do we have any witnesses?” Sam told him, “Me and Dot and Molly were out for lunch.” Rusty and Fluffy were at the clinic and that’s it.”

    “Mmmmm” the investigator looked thoughtful and said to Rusty, “Did you see anyone?” Rusty tried to look as innocent as possible.  “The obvious is often the answer.” Said the Investigator looking at Rusty.  “Are you saying Rusty took the turkey?” Sam asked.

    “I’m saying Rusty was there, so at the very least, he’s a witness.” Sam smiled, “I love Rusty, but I don’t think he’d do well on the stand in court.” The investigator smiled, “No but I think he could show you what happened.  If he’s willing.”  The investigator was good and Rusty was having trouble with his innocent look. 

    “Rusty?” Sam asked, “Can you show me?” Rusty barked in the affirmative.  They finished their visit and promised to return on Thanksgiving.  When they got back to the clinic, Rusty lead Sam to the turkey’s cage and showed him how he lifted the latch with his nose.  “That is very clever!” Sam said.

    Then, Rusty lead Sam to the pine tree where the turkey was last seen.  And that was all he had to show.  “So after the pine tree, you didn’t see it either?” Rusty barked.  Sam said, “I guess I’m heading out to Joe’s to see what kind of turkey’s he has for sale.  Farmer Jones will want a replacement.” 

    They headed home and on the way stopped at Joe’s Butcher Shop.  Joe always had a bone for Rusty when they stopped in and today was no exception.  “Here you go!” Joe told Rusty handing him a steak bone with a little meat still on it.  Sam looked at Rusty and told Joe, “Rusty was an accomplice in the Great Turkey Escape earlier today. I need a new one for Farmer Jones.” 

    “Yeah,” Joe said, “I’ve heard about it.” In a small town, news travels fast.  “Have you got a nice turkey I can give to the Jones?” Joe said he had a few left.  Sam headed over to look and picked out one.  Rusty couldn’t see how the featherless body could compare to the real live turkey rusty had helped earlier. 

    Rusty and Sam brought the bird home and Sam put it in the refrigerator.  “We’ll deliver it tomorrow.”

    The next day on the way to the clinic, Sam and Rusty stopped out at Farmer Jone’s.  He was just coming out of the barn when they arrived and he approached the car.  “You’ll never guess what!” He said to them. 

    Sam said, “What?”

    “It came back!” Farmer Jones said. “ I went into the chicken coop and there it was sitting with the hens, next to Penelope.  She looks much better and is laying again. I was right, the two issues were related.  The turkey and hen are unlikely friends.“

    “I think instead of having the turkey for dinner, I’m going to have to keep it to keep Penelope happy.”

     Sam gave Farmer Jones the turkey he’d bought.  “That wasn’t necessary,” Farmer Jones said, “I got my turkey back.” Sam told him, “Consider it a Thanksgiving present.  Rusty did help your turkey escape. “

    “Yes but Fluffy brought it back.” Farmer Jones said.

    “Fluffy??” Sam said. 

    “I noticed her coming out of the hen house right before I saw the turkey was back.  She was my barn cat before Mrs. Smith got her.”

    “I didn’t know that,” Sam said.  Rusty hadn’t known either.  Rusty thought Fluffy had gone from Mrs. Smith’s house to the Vet clinic.  So if Fluffy had been Farmer Jones barn cat, she knew the way to the farm.

    “It’s still odd that Fluffy would lead the turkey back.” Sam said. 

    “Fluffy always was a friend to the hens and other fowl, most cats tried to eat them, but Fluffy always hung out with them and was protective over them.” Farmer Jones explained. 

    Rusty thought, maybe there is more to Fluffy than he knew.  Though he didn’t want to let his guard down entirely, he’d keep an open mind about the cats better qualities….from a distance to protect his nose.

    Farmer Jones thanked them again for their help and gave them one of his wife’s famous pies.  Rusty barked a thank you and from the chicken coop, the turkey added a “gobble”. 

    The End