Joliet chihuahua gives owners the slip
By Rose Panieri October 1, 2012 12:18PM
Robin has been missing since Sept. 16.
Updated: January 15, 2013 1:18PM
If you want a capable watchdog, consider a Chihuahua. Burglars will double over in laughter at its manic yapping and growling. Ah, but the hilarity will cease abruptly as the Chihuahua transforms their ankles into hamburger, thus foiling their diabolical plans.
Speaking of dogs with a Napoleon complex, a war is being waged over a “lost” Chihuahua named Robin.
The drama began Sept. 16, when Robin escaped through his Joliet family’s garage. That in itself was not unusual. Robin often wandered and was well-acquainted with most of the human and canine neighbors near Caton Farm and Essington roads. The area collies, shepherds and pit bulls all acquiesced to the tiny dog that carried itself like a Great Dane.
Being streetwise, as well as stout-hearted, Robin had always found his way home. This time, however, he never returned.
Neighbor Cheryl Williams is well-acquainted with Robin. In fact, she has taken the pup’s immigrant family under her kindly wing. She understands that folks not fluent in English — and not well-versed in local customs — need guidance, not criticism and abuse.
“Because they’re sort of isolated, I’ve taken to helping them out, giving them advice and letting them know how things are done around here,” Williams said. “Their two children love Robin and are devastated he’s gone.”
In fact, most of the neighbors are fond of Robin and his James Cagney swagger.
From sightings and phone calls, Williams heard that someone had “rescued” Robin, and she accompanied police to the home.
The residents denied any knowledge of the dog, she said.
Thus, the family is back to square one. Joliet Township Animal Control and various area shelters have been contacted and are on the lookout for a small, brown Chihuahua with plenty of big dog attitude.
If you’re a neighbor who has taken Robin in out of the goodness of your heart, I’m sure the owners will be grateful, and are looking forward to a joyful reunion with their pup.
If you spot a dog resembling Robin, give a call and I’ll put you in touch with his owners.
Precious artifact lost
John B. of Shorewood lost something near and dear to his soul — a 15-notch arrowhead he unearthed at Messenger Woods in Lockport when he was 10 years old. He has carried the precious artifact in his wallet ever since.
The pouch is made of black leather, and is approximately 1.5 x 1.5 inches with silver rivets and tiny scissors and pliers attached to the pouch.
He believes he may have lost the pouch and its very special parcel at or near Provena Saint Joseph Medical Center during the first week of August.
Spare Honda key lost
Rosetta of Joliet lost the spare key to her Honda somewhere in Joliet. There was a single key on a key ring bearing a tag that reads “Honda of Joliet.”
If you’ve lost — or found — something, call 815-773-7178 or email rpanieri@stmedianetwork.com.
