Sightings in Berlin

by Agatha Hughes

I recently returned from a fine 10-day vacation to Paris, Berlin, and Munich. Never has anyone crossed the Atlantic with so much anticipation for a Kerry sighting, especially one in Paris. Can you imagine how a Kerry would strut down the Champs Elysee?

I checked out every dog in the heart of Paris. Lots of small terrier types. Most were off-lead, and look as if they would never consider dashing into the street. However, didn't notice those owners carrying any baggies, or scoopers. Saw one owner watch as his hound left a memento in front of the Louvre. We walked along (well out of earshot) bravely proclaiming, "Ze poop. Ah, ze poop!" and looking tres disgusted.

So, after four days, dash all hopes. No French Kerries seen, alas.

Seems there was something better in store.... Enter Berlin. A week ago exactly, we were walking in the suburbs with German friends on a lovely Sunday afternoon, by a lake, with the leaves turning. A jogger with a bounding, black shaggy dog approaches. I catch my breath, but no, "that" isn't a Kerry. They run off into the distance along a canal path. Two minutes later, my silly brain says, "Yes it was! That was an undocked, very shaggy Kerry with long legs. And you missed it!"

I'm crushed, they drag me away.

We turn around. Five minutes later, here they come, straight towards us! They've made a loop. I jump up and down and accost them, grinning.

"Ist das ein Kerry Blue?"

"Ya!"

Big smile from the owner. It's one-year-old "Maxie," with a white diamond on his chest.

I'm thrilled. I take photos. I get a Kerry kiss. We chat for a quick minute and I tell the proud owner about the KBT web site and this list. As he runs off he tells me that there are only forty Kerries in [Berlin].

Some KBT sightings are wishes come true and I leave Berlin a happy girl. Besides, it was my birthday.

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