Jake is not ready for his pre-bedtime nap.

Jake is 14 today.

Yes, he is an old man but often doesn’t act like it. He enjoys toys, treats and laps. He must bark at squirrels and other dogs. He takes security seriously and checks the backyard perimeter and keeps watch out the bay window.

Jake enjoys scratching his back after destroying a toy.

Other times, though, you can tell he is old. He wants to go to bed early, and he doesn’t want to play rough with Max.

I have a bad cold now and am recovering from an injury. Jake is at my side. My little dachshund doctor will lick my arm or hand and snuggle to make me feel better.

So, happy birthday to my little man. You will get a steak for dinner.