17 December 2006

My Life as a Dog

Not much happening here, as per Andrew´s post. So I might take this opportunity to blog about something that I find strangely interesting in Cusco. The dogs. Truly. And you all know how I am not exactly a dog person. (Pepe, are you reading this?)

There are many many dogs, especially in our barrio, Larapa. Unlike in Asia, where dogs are generally a variation on the starving dingo theme, the dogs here are incredibly varied. On our block alone we have dogs that look like huskies, boxers, terriers, german shepherds ... you name it, it exists. Then, of course, are the true mutants, the things that look like dogs crossed with cuy (guinea pig) or llama. I will post some photos when I can be bothered with the hassle of uploading.

A lot of the dogs seem to be pets, but even the strays don´t look too bad, although some could do with a haircut.

The only time we don´t like them is when they set up a chorus of barking up and down the hill, in the wee small hours. Unfortunately that´s just about every night.

We will blog again if and when something interesting happens. Or I may even reveal photos of my mural-in-progress, which currently features a strange possum and a koala. The Pumamarca kids were convinced that there had to be another word for koala because to them it sounds like it´s Spanish, and they were expecting something difficult for them to pronounce!

Hasta luego.

5 comments:

Anonymous said...

Tiff, I sympathise with your chorus of barking dogs, I have the very same problem right here in Leichhardt! We are off to Nielsen Park on Tuesday, they are forecasting rain so we may not make it but fingers crossed. We finish on Thursday and we are all ready for a well earned rest!

Anonymous said...

Bisou and PB send their love to the noisy angins of Pumamarca, and we, of course, send our love to the intrepid travellers. Had a fabulous dive trip to Sipadan a couple of weeks back, and enjoyed last weekend at Mt Kinabalu with Annette and Imran. We're are now gearing up for Christmas while I'm trying to finish some urgent jobs. Plus ca meme chose etc. Miss y'all. Will email even though it seems you're having trouble receiving.

Anonymous said...

Buenos diaz mis amigos,
I can't believe it has taken me so long to blog on. You seem to be having the most fabulous time - i definitely want photos of the mural and (possibly) a recipe for guinea pig. We used to keep them. The high count was 20 (the boys broke into the girls cage and yes, they breed like well, guinea pigs). Anyway, when my brother tried guinea pig he said it tasted like stringy chicken. Maybe I can serve it at Christmas as I have realised with horror exactly how much cooking I committed myself to for the extended family. One dish of guinea pig and they'll never ask me again I suppose.
Love to you all - Christmas here is meant to be cold and nasty, so i hope yours is more merry,
X, Sharon

Anonymous said...

Hello,
If you are reading this then perhaps the techno curse has lifted!
I would be very interested in seeing the photos of mutants. As I can not get tele or internet to work I have been reading a book of yours about Incas which claims that they were very successful at domesticating wildlife. If not via blog then when you return. I am very happy to read of your adventures while at work so please keep writing. Peppi and Atticus are getting used to me I think though they miss all the excitment of Pheobe and Holden and friends I am sure. I have had a few mystery bell ringers so it is clear the local kids miss you guys too. Will keep this short as I still dont know if it will work. love Nique

Anonymous said...

Hi Tiff,

I'm thoroughly enjoying all the stories of your adventures. Can't believe you ate guinea pig and I'm looking forward to seeing a photo of your mural! I survived the last week... just! So pleased to be on holidays. Hope you guys have a fantastic Christmas.
Love bec xx