The Owner’s Side

Let me set the scene: The house was decked, the cookies were warm from the oven, and the family was gathered around as Bing Crosby crooned softly from the speakers. It was a Christmas scene worthy of a Hallmark movie — and I felt like a star in a cozy cable knit cardigan.

I had meticulously planned everything, down to the placement of the twinkling fairy lights. It was a perfect blend of nostalgia and comfort (sans the ugly Christmas sweaters). The last-minute dash to The Hungry Puppy had been more of a flurry of holiday cheer than a stress-fueled errand — or so I thought.

As we all settled in for our annual reading of “The Night Before Christmas,” I felt Buster nudge his cool, wet nose against my hand. I looked down into his eyes — those familiar eyes that see more cookies in my hand than I’m willing to admit (typically three cookies. Okay, fine, five cookies). But that night, there was a different kind of anticipation in his gaze.

To my horror, I realized that I had committed an unacceptable betrayal. Buster’s special Christmas bone — the big, savory, dental-friendly chew that I always got from The Hungry Puppy — was missing. Somehow, amidst caroling and hot cocoa, I forgot about Buster’s favorite yuletide tradition. And those trusting eyes seemed to know exactly who dropped the ball.

Buster’s Tale of Yuletide Disappointment

Let me tell you ONE thing. I WAIT for Christmas. All year, I ruv that juicy, delicious, bone-shaped reminder of my DOGHOOD. I’ve pointed it out to her in the catalog more than once. I’ve even paw-tapped on the laptop with that fantastic bone on the screen. MY BONE.

And MY LADY, she grins, she pats my head, she makes THE PROMISE. “It’s coming, Buster. It’s on the list.” She tells me. ON THE LIST! The gist of my existence. The centerfold dream of my dogly desires.

And then? Nothing. No shiny wrapper, no mouth-watering aroma. Just jingle bells and gingerbread, which hold NO APPEAL WHATSOEVER. Betrayed. BETRAYED by the very human I trust the most. The one who rescued me, feeds me, and gives me all the warm cuddles. Can’t a dog trust a promise? A CHRISTMAS PROMISE?

I did what any self-respecting dog would do. I gave her THE LOOK. The one that says, “I loved you. I trusted you. And you FORGOT.” Then, with a sigh that captured the weight of my disappointment, I plodded over to my bed to stare dramatically at the wall.

Crisis Averted

At first, I failed to understand the dramatic posture and the nearly audible sigh from the corner. Then realization struck like a poorly-thrown Frisbee—Buster’s Christmas bone! How could I forget Buster’s favorite holiday tradition?

Grabbing my keys like a war hero ready to storm the battlefield, I dashed out to The Hungry Puppy. Moments later, returning victorious, I bore the spoils of my hasty quest — a large, savory-looking N-Bone Dental Chew, guaranteed to keep Buster busy and happy for hours.

My heart warmed at the sight of Buster’s tail wagging furiously as he took in the familiar packaging. His ears perked up, and his eyes brightened, already looking visibly forgiving.

As I unwrapped his bone, handed it to him, and watched his eyes glint in approval, I rejoiced. The Christmas spirit was back! Buster eagerly took the treat, trotted over to his favorite spot, and lay down to enjoy his Christmas miracle. The boy was back.

Crisis averted. Christmas saved. Dog no longer hates me (and a million reminders are set for next year’s bone purchase).

I guess all’s well that ends well at The Hungry Puppy, even during the holiday rush. Whether it’s savory chews, premium kibble, or adorable doggy bandanas, their wide selection never fails to save the day. You can check out their arsenal of dog delights at thehungrypuppy.com, just in case you too forget an important pet tradition this season.

• 🦴 Canine Christmas miracles — because every good boy deserves one
• 🌿 FREE local NJ delivery — for when you forget the one thing you shouldn’t have
• 🏪 In-store shopping — bring your pup for the full experience
• 💚 Lots of love — we get it. We’re holiday-loving dog people, too.