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Today was the annual GDA holiday potluck up at the school.

It rarely occurs to us puppy raisers because this is our everyday existence, but when you stop to think about it, it’s pretty remarkable how well behaved these dogs can be. Dozens of them, all in one place — and puppies, at that — in close proximity to each other in the presence of food, people of all ages, and unusual sights and sounds. You might expect an explosion of barking, at the very least. But somehow, it never goes that crazy.

Not to say that it can’t go a LITTLE crazy, especially when littermates are involved.

After Truman, Tai and Tori posed nicely for several photos in the little sleigh (did someone say “cookie,” Truman?), the three of them — as if on cue — took a simultaneous flying leap over the decoration on the side, like furry little superheroes. I wish someone had captured it on camera…would have made great video.

Anyway, after that, I think they were a little concerned that Santa thought they were naughty.

Because it took me so long to sew the garland on Truman’s jacket, I decided to leave it on an extra day or two so he could show off for my co-workers. When we went back to work on Tuesday, I was thrilled to discover that the lobby of the building had been decorated for Christmas. I took a few quick photos, then the graphic designer at my organization offered to take a few more with her nice camera equipment.

The folks at the building security desk folks are very nice, and they love Truman — especially Yolanda. When she noticed Truman was getting distracted by passersby who stopped to watch his little fashion photo shoot, she very kindly (and unsolicited) directed traffic for us. We felt quite fancy and important.

Do I hear reindeer on the roof?

Santa? Is that you?

Sure, he doesn’t look thrilled about the jingle collar. But come on — he’s even cute when he’s mortified!

The South Bay puppy raisers march in the Downey Christmas Parade every year. It’s a great opportunity to spread holiday cheer as well as awareness of the GDA program. The dogs get terrific exposure to crowds, marching bands, horses, and all kinds of other distractions. It’s fun for the people, too. Everyone dresses in Santa hats and red vests, and gets to spend the first hour or so trying to prevent their puppy from chewing the garland off its jacket.

This year, our day began at Baker’s Square restaurant, where we met the group for breakfast. After attempting to settle Truman under the table in the presence of some exuberant young puppies and apparently fragrant intact females, we relocated, I was able to use both hands on things like utensils for my pancakes, and he did just fine.

Here’s how it went: The walk to and from the parking lot to the parade staging area was practically longer than the parade itself. Truman — who is usually a champion loose-lead walker — nearly decapitated himself by pulling so hard on the leash, he was so excited. My left arm was killing me by the end of the route, but I know he had a great time. Everyone applauded for the dogs, and the excited shouts of “puppy!” and “doggy!” from children lining the route were a welcome addition to the shouts of holiday well-wishing. And, this being Southern California, it was a brisk and Decembery 78 degrees outside.

He was NOT tired afterward.