As an only dog, I was surprised when my owners brought home Sophie, a large rough coated collie. She seemed the perfect dog; gentle, loyal, sensitive, and obedient. As new siblings, we spent nine years together.

At the time of my story, Sophie had just turned age 7 and I was 15. We were both now senior dogs. Sophie was my “little” sister, perfectly behaved, and never got into trouble. I taught her the boundaries and rules of the house. But she was the favored child, the celebrity, the superstar therapy dog. As I was always with her, I can tell you what really happened when no one was around.

Although an ideal companion, Sophie did develop one bad habit as she got older. She loved cardboard and if she found any, SHE WOULD CHEW IT UP. Initially it was in very small pieces and, of course, I

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