When Bob Kuykendall first adopted Cricket, he wasn’t sure about pit bulls, much like many others with preconceived notions. But it didn’t take long for Cricket to win him over, turning him into a passionate advocate for pitties.
“She LOVES going places and meeting people,” Kuykendall told The Dodo. “She’s submissive to everything—even cats and chickens. When we’re on the trail, if someone avoids her or doesn’t pet her, she’ll stop, stare, and whine, wondering why they didn’t give her attention. She could easily be the poster dog for pit bulls.”
While Cricket is enthusiastic about most outings, there’s one place she’s not so thrilled about: the vet’s office. After spending a lot of time there as a puppy due to a broken leg, she’s grown a bit more accustomed to it but still finds it intimidating.
Recently, Cricket went to the vet, prepared to feel her usual nerves—only to realize something was different this time. The veterinarian wasn’t just anyone; it was someone she knew very well.
“My daughter just became a veterinarian this year, so it was our first visit to her,” Kuykendall explained.
As Cricket entered the exam room, she was visibly confused. Her sister Maddie, now wearing the official veterinarian uniform, called her over. Cricket’s tail wagged hesitantly as she processed the situation. Was this her loving sister or the scary vet—or somehow both?
She took a few steps toward Maddie but quickly retreated to her dad, tail tucked between her legs. The mixed emotions were evident: joy at seeing her sister, fear of the unfamiliar setting.
Finally, Maddie crouched down and gently showered Cricket with affection. The sweet pup relaxed, realizing it was indeed her beloved sister—though one who had crossed over to the “dark side” of being a vet.
For now, Cricket’s feelings about the vet’s office remain a work in progress, but her dad is optimistic.
“I don’t know if her perception has totally changed,” Kuykendall said. “It’ll be an ongoing thing, but I bet she’ll start looking for my daughter in the future for some comfort.”
Cricket may not fully embrace the vet’s office just yet, but having her sister by her side might make those visits a little easier—and a lot more loving.
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