Some dogs are well-behaved and predictable. Others… not so much. And then, there’s Petey—a dog who seemed determined to test the limits of danger at every opportunity. In David Wilk’s Amazing Dog Stories—a finalist for the National Dog Writers Association’s Book of the Year—Petey proves time and time again that while his heart was big, his impulse control was non-existent.
Born to Run, Jump, and Cause Chaos
From the moment he entered the world, Petey was an explosion of energy. He wasn’t just athletic—he was fearless. Fetch wasn’t a game; it was a mission. Every walk was an opportunity to explore uncharted territories (whether or not his owner agreed). If there was a way to push the limits of safety, Petey found it.
He wasn’t a bad dog. He was just… a little too enthusiastic about life.
The Tar Pit Incident—Curiosity Almost Killed the Dog
One of Petey’s most infamous adventures was his near-deadly encounter with a hidden tar pit. While wandering ahead on a walk, his curiosity led him straight into danger. One moment, he was exploring. The next, he was sinking fast into thick, black tar. It was a tar pit – even worse than quicksand.
His owner’s panic was immediate. Petey thrashed, trying to escape, but the more he struggled, the deeper he sank. With seconds to act, Wilk took a step into the tar to try to pull his dog out of danger. Unfortunately, he was not close enough to get a decent grip, so he took another tentative step. But by now Petey’s entire body had sunken into the unforgiving tar pit and only his head was left to keep him alive. Wilk could not pull him out, but he could try to keep Petey’s head from going under..
And to make matters worse, Wilk was now sinking, trapped by the thick tar, not able to move or pull his feet and legs out. In desperation, now sinking to his waist, he called 911 and the Ventura Fire Department raced to save man and dog. Thankfully, they made it in time.
Most dogs might have learned a lesson from such a close call. Not Petey. He was not that great at remembering stuff.
The Cliff Jump—Because Why Not?
If there was ever proof that Petey lacked any sense of self-preservation, it came during an innocent game of fetch that turned into a life-threatening stunt.
One throw. One bounce. An accidental kick by Petey at full speed. And then, over the edge bounced the tennis ball.
Without hesitation, Petey followed his ball off the cliff, oblivious to what lay below. His owner could only run after him, yelling “Stop Petey! No!” in horror as his dog disappeared. Wilk was convinced that his reckless pup had met his end.
By some miracle, Petey landed on a ledge below, in a bramble bush, scuffed and bleeding, but somehow gripping his ball—because he caught it. Then Petey struggled out of the bush and made his way up the side to safety.
Why We Love Dogs Like Petey
Petey was reckless. He was impulsive. He was a complete handful. But he was also full of life, love, and unshakable loyalty.
Every pet owner knows a dog like Petey—the one who constantly keeps them on their toes, pushes the limits, and somehow, against all odds, always lands on their feet. And despite the stress, we wouldn’t trade them for the world.
A Story for Every Dog Lover
📖 Amazing Dog Stories—a finalist for the National Dog Writers Association’s Book of the Year—is packed with tales of daring rescues, mischievous antics, and the unbreakable bond between humans and their dogs. If you love stories about fearless, adventurous pups like Petey, this book is for you.