“Don’t be afraid, Schnitzel. Just because I’m going to be a hero doesn’t mean I won’t have time for you. Besides, you’re getting lazy and you don’t even like going to the park as much as you used to. Maybe I should put you back on that diet…”

The word ‘diet’ was enough to prompt Schnitzel to spring from his lounging position and show that he was indeed alert and active. He’d have to stop spending so much time in bed with his favorite toy ‘Squeak Squeak,” even though that seemed highly impossible to fathom.

“But never mind that now,” Ben continued, “I’ve got more important things to worry about than canine obesity. If I’m gonna be in charge, I need a cape. You can’t do the job without a cape. Take me to the cape tailor!”

Schnitzel was starting to become annoyed with this new situation. No treats. No lunch tidbits. Just psycho babble and diet threats. He heaved a dramatic doggie sigh and retreated back to his bed and his beloved Squeak Squeak. At least his toy wasn’t an obnoxious jerk.