Old Dogs

She can't hear well, she doesn't like the cold and she no longer goes on four-mile runs. But Chanel, a 20-year-old dachshund in Port Jefferson Station, N.Y., is enjoying the perks of being the world's oldest dog.

The next edition of the Guinness Book of World Records, due out in September, will make that title official. She's been featured in British newspapers. A producer for Jay Leno wants to fly her to California.

She's taking it all in stride as she ambles toward her 21st birthday on May 8, snuffling down chicken and pasta, then curling up to nap.

*****

My own Black Labrador Seamus 'Thunder' Mac Lesh is celebrating his 15th birthday this year and he still gets around pretty good for an old man. Having my other Black Labrador Angus 'Doogie' Mac Dougall - the three year old 'pup' - at his heels keeps him fit and feeling like a young 10 year old.