By A. Campbell

Season’s greetings! Happy Hanukkah and Merry Christmas to all who celebrate. I’m Lucas, a 16-and-a-half-year-old Pomeranian and this is my beloved companion and roommate, Dawg. We think Dawg is about 10 years old and he’s a pug, lhasa apso, and terrier mix.

Here’s a little bit of history: did you know Queen Victoria loved Pomeranians? She was an animal enthusiast and kept a variety of pets including different types of dogs and a couple of shetland ponies. In fact, at one time she had 35 pomeranians in the royal kennels. Given that we live in a Manhattan apartment instead of a castle, Dawg and I agree that there isn’t much room for more animals between the two of us and our two other rabbit roommates, Max and Ming.

Each morning Dawg and I take a long walk along Riverside Park with our Mom and afterward it’s breakfast followed by a healthy treat – a banana split four ways between the two of us and the bunnies. Before the end of this month, I want to venture east to Central Park and explore The Ramble to find the famous pet memorial tree. What a special tribute to pets who have passed on. It’s such a beautiful little memorial and every time I look at the tree I can’t help but hear Judy Garland’s soulful “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” which always brings tears to my eyes.

While I’ve gotten a bit too old and ginger for racing around the local dog runs, Dawg and I still enjoy lots of outside time spent shuffling through autumn leaves and people watching. We love to see all the Christmas decorations around town — the Christmas tree stands, the colorful lights, decorated trees shining brightly in front windows, fresh greenery, wreaths and garland lining brownstone stoops, and there are even some lovely poinsettias in our building lobby. Dawg and I both sport thick wool holiday sweaters to keep us warm on chilly walks and I’ve also got a little Christmas hat that I wear to accessorize.

As a senior, it’s important to ensure I’m eating healthily which isn’t difficult for me. I love all kinds of fruits and vegetables like brussels sprouts and asparagus. Sometimes I’ll try to sneak the carrots and romaine lettuce away from the bunnies, if they’re not paying attention. Dawg can be a bit more picky. I think all of us – Dawg, Max, Ming and myself – are really excited to see what’s in store for Christmas dinner. Specifically, what leftovers (dreaming of turkey, pies, and fancy cheeses!) we’ll get to feast on before our annual Christmas afternoon nap.

Dawg and I send our warmest wishes to all Pupper West Siders for a joyful, safe, and festive holiday season and a Happy New Year!

Read all of our Pupper West Side interviews here! Pupper will be taking next week off, but will be back Tuesday, January 3, 2023!

If you think your pup deserves a shot at neighborhood fame, we encourage you to reach out to Audrey at pupperwestsideuws@gmail.com to be considered for a future profile on West Side Rag and follow your fellow Pupper West Sider’s adventures on Instagram at @pupper_west_side_uws