Bits and Possum Story - May 13, 2025

What an adrenaline-producing afternoon! I had no idea the chaos I’d find when I stepped into the yard, following the frantic barking of my dachshund, Bits. As I rounded the corner, I saw Bits had cornered a snarling mama possum under a dense, shadowed bush, her beady eyes glinting as her mouth was open, displaying all of her sharp, pointed teeth. She was hissing, teeth bared, her body in a defensive pose, ready to defend her young from Bits. And there was Bits, his short, sturdy legs planted firmly, barking at the intruders for being in Bits’ yard.

Panicked, I moved to scoop him up, but Bits only pressed forward, barking louder, his tiny body full of courage and bravado of a creature ten times his size. The possum hissed louder, jaws snapping, and my heart raced. I reached for my phone, dialing animal control. The voice on the other end offered no comfort, informing me that no one was available. "Just call your dog inside," she suggested, as if that would be enough. Clearly, she had never met a determined dachshund, like Bits.

Desperate, I called a neighbor. Denise picked up, and minutes later she appeared, broom in hand, she took a defensive stance. But after one look at the fur and teeth partially hidden in the bush, she retreated for reinforcements.

Somehow, she found Jacob Amme from down the block, and soon he appeared, broom at the ready. Between Jacob’s steady hand and my frantic coaxing, we managed to pry Bits away from the possum and herd him toward the house. I shut the door behind us, my heart still racing, feeling great relief, and slid the doggie door closed so that Bits would not return to the angry possum.

Bits was safe. The possum, Jacob told me, retreated to a hole that was probably its den under our back porch. I am profoundly grateful for the wonderful neighbors who came to my rescue.

I am thankful that these neighbors were available and willing to come to my aid.

Baby possum playing possum.

Aunt Monica and her pups sent Bits his own stuffed possum and armadillo!