The Dalmatian Queen Mother Had Seen Many Things and Said Little
The black lace veil falls over her spotted ears and frames her white face like a mantilla, and she wears a high-necked black gown richly decorated with beads and jet embroidery. A necklace of tiny pearls glints at her neck, and her spots, black on white, show up like ink on paper. Her dark brown eyes are large, soft and quietly sad. Behind her, green and gold damask wallpaper and a velvet curtain give the scene a stately Victorian mood, and one dim light catches the sparkle of her beads.
Dalmatians are sensitive, athletic dogs with a lot of energy, and they usually need more daily activity than people expect. A long run, a hike or a game of fetch helps them settle at home. They tend to be loyal to their families and may be reserved with strangers, so early and gentle socialization is important. The breed also has a known tendency to form urinary stones, so access to fresh water and a chat with your vet about diet are good ideas. Some Dalmatians are born deaf in one or both ears, and a vet can test for this. Their short coats shed year-round, so a rubber brush works well.
The queen mother sits gracefully, and every spot on her coat is in perfect order. She would like you to know that she has seen many things.
