Having always had a soft heart regarding most.....I say “most” animals, going on record and taking a stand regarding animal cruelty/abuse, it was most difficult to remove a “steward” from my new household. Over several weeks, my German Shepherd aka “The Madam” has been acting quite differently than in the past. I had noticed that whenever the “steward” was around, she abruptly put me between herself and him. First assumption was the new surroundings, her getting accustomed to being moved all too frequently. True, this type of change can and will affect an animal's behavior. Still! It was puzzling.
The Navy Exchange has what is called a sophisticated “nanny cam” that can be wired into an existing home or business security system. The purchase was easy, however, the instructions were not. Somehow “easy” instructions are for children 3 years of age and younger. Armed with the system, I went back to work and proceeded to hook up part of the system. Yes! It was easier to “wing it” than read the instructions.
The “stewards” day's off came shortly after the purchase. I got to my quarters and strategically placed 5 cameras around “house.” With the conglomeration of furnishings, it was an easy task to hide them. Each camera had a transmitter and a main receiver had to be within a given distance. No problem. A camera in the Kitchen, living room, dining area, and so forth, and I had the job done. I might add that “madam” was following me around like a new puppy trying to imprint on me. Quite unlike her. After installation, she and I went back to my office and spent the rest of the day quietly doing my “job” thing.
The next morning, I left “house,” and watched “madam” distance herself from “steward.” When I came home that afternoon for what they call a “down day,” “madam” was outside in the rain. One look at me and she bolted to my side. In the house, towels ready, and I rubbed her down vigorously. Then, I went into my den and reviewed the cam results.
My fear was justified in just a few short moments after my morning departure. That “steward,” started after her with what looked like a yard stick and hit her. Audio revealed her yelping and trying to get away. Next thing I saw was him kick her in the side as hard as he could. Needless to say, “fire” flew into me. I made a telephone call to enlisted personnel and demanded he be removed from my quarters for animal abuse. Unbelieving, a Chief showed up and watched the show. Immediately, he called “steward” into the den and confronted him with proof of animal cruelty. Attempting to justify his actions, fell on deaf ears as we continued to watch his abuse. The Chief immediately took him away to the detention barracks, then sent a crew over to remove all of his belongings from “house.”
“Steward” was put on “report,” and a “Captains Mast” was held, then forwarded on for Courts Martial. Three days later, and I had a new steward(ess) Elsie, the cook and keeper of the house next door, showed up bag and baggage to take over “house,” and all of it's functions. I was elated. Her first duty was to get with “Madam” and give her a good scratch and brushing. Turns out.....she loves dogs, especially German Shepherds.
Now in house, there is competition in the Kitchen. Who can out cook Whom. She was surprised to see me vacuuming the place, dusting and so on. I loved her statement “you sure are domesticated Sir!” “I think we're going to get along alright......and truthfully.....so do I.
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