Chapter 62 - Bentley's Gotcha Day
Bentley had a spring in his step as he hopped across the room. It was springtime. He always looked forward to this time of year. The sun was out, the birds were chirping – and the trees were green again! This meant willow season was back. It usually happened right around his “Gotcha Day,” so Dad would make him his first fresh willow foraging ball of the year for a present.
Dad had learned to weave long willow branches into a ball. He filled the inside with various kinds of Small Pet Select hay, and in the center, he placed some treats. He called them foraging balls because it was like foraging around for food, all wrapped up in a ball. Bentley loved to burrow his nose into the ball to find the treats as well as toss the ball around. It was great entertainment. Plus, chewing on the willow branches kept his teeth in good shape.
Sure enough, Dad came into the room and said, “Happy Gotcha Day, Bentley! Can you believe it’s been seven years since you came to live with me?” Bentley remembered how his time was up at the shelter, and no one had come to adopt him. His ear had been bitten, so he was considered in need of medical care. In his darkest moment, when he feared the worst, Dad came and rescued him from the shelter and took him home as a foster. In less than an hour, Bentley stole Dad’s heart and Dad invited him to stay forever. His life suddenly changed from being the darkest day to the brightest day!
“You’re in luck!” said Dad, “Spring came early this year, so the willow leaves are already big. I made you a fresh foraging ball!” Dad set the ball down, and Bentley came bounding over. He gave the ball a sniff. His nose filled with the scent of fresh willow. It smelled so good! Immediately, he bit off a leaf for a chew.
Bentley looked up at Dad and thought, “Thanks for the foraging ball, Dad. And thanks for giving me the bestest life a bunny could ask for!”
Dad said, “You’re welcome, Bentley. I’m so glad you came into my life. You’re such a spunky little guy. I love you forever.”
Bentley gets a fresh foraging ball for his Gotcha Day.
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