Sunday, April 12, 2009

Lizard on a leash


I've just completed Richard's new harness. I also sewed a matching leash for it. :-) Richard looks very sharp in it.

Lately, Richard has been developing an attitude, which I can only associate with his approaching sexual maturity... He's exhibiting some hilarious behaviors, such as puffing up his neck, sudden repositioning, and sitting very erect in response to what he considers harassment, e.g., petting and tail-touching. As a matter of fact, I got a mild whipping from Richard's tail today when I tested his harness on him.

We had two guests over at the house last night. It was the first time they had met Richard. As soon as they entered the door, Richard reacted by inflating his neck. We've never observed him do that unprovoked. He exhibited no fear whatsoever, and even seemed to show off to the guests by being extra energetic (climbing my leg to my chest and then launching himself to the kitchen counter and eyeballing everyone carefully).

While these behaviors are amusing, they also herald the coming of the "new" Richard, and it saddens me to an extent. But such is the way of life! Our children-- I mean, lizards-- become ungrateful and surly, even though we keep their tummies full and their bodies clothed.

So, say "goodbye" to the sprightly Richard and his charming antics, and say "hello" to the grumpy fellow he is becoming.

I'm kidding. :-) This is just a part of growing up. I can deal with it! Hopefully you will still appreciate hearing about Richard when he's not cute anymore.

9 comments:

Haphazardkat said...

First? I burst out laughing at your blog title "Lizard on a leash"!! Even typing that cracks me up! :D
Second? The little harness and leash is genius! You are so incredibly creative!!
and Third?
I took my 11yr old son to the doc last week for his 6th grade shot--they informed me after his physical--that he is officially in puberty.
I shall work on his harness and leash this afternoon...

Hollywoodtomato said...

:-D Yeah, when people see Richard on his leash, they do a double-take and try to make it look like they don't find it strange. :-) I wanted to make him a leash because the ones available in pet stores don't really look comfy or secure. Or cute! hahaha

As for your son, good luck dealing with his puberty. Send me his measurements and I'll whip up a fine leash for him. :-D

Unknown said...

Wow! That's super cute.

I was thinking the same thing about a leash for my bearded dragon, since normal fabric leashes would get stuck on her scales.

Could you maybe email me more pictures for your leash? It looks like it would be the cutest (not to mention easiest) to alter for her.
dargonlover12@gmail.com

scott said...

hello i have 2 cwd and i was hoping you could send me a how to
on making a leash
raptor1725@yahoo.com
thank you

scott said...
This comment has been removed by the author.
Unknown said...

Is there any way you can send me direction on how you made that harness? I bought a small reptile harness/leash and I hate it. The clip looks like it rubs him.

He is just beautiful! I can't wait till mine is that big.

Ladybugz250@yahoo.com

Steph said...

I would love a tutorial on how you made this. You should probably make another and try to sell it on Etsy, this one looks great.

I made a somewhat sloppy one for my iguana so I could take her out safely for some sun bathing. it may not be this neat but it gets the job done.

Hollywoodtomato said...

Hi, everyone. Sorry it took me so long to respond. My recommendation is to make a pattern out of a paper towel. It takes a few trials to come up with something that more or less fits. That's how I made mine. Once you have a paper towel leash that looks like it fits, lay it on the fabric you have chosen and trace it. Then trace a line around that tracing. You'll actually cut out a larger piece because those edges will be folded back and sewn. I hand-sewed Richard's leash. You can find the D-ring and the clip at a craft store. I hope that helps!

Celestia said...

can't wait til my male gets to that state -___-