So everyone’s favorite flatulent siege-dog, Doorstop, is based on a very real dog here in Egypt named Limpy.

Limpy has a daily routine. He waits patiently for me to open the office, strolls in like he pays rent, and then lays himself lengthwise across the doorway, completely blocking all traffic. A professional loiterer. A jaywalker of the highest order.

Up until recently, those were the extent of his crimes.

However, I regret to inform you that Limpy has escalated.

The other day I was working in the back when I heard the wife scream for help. I came running out just in time to see Limpy darting out the door with my wife’s purse hanging jauntily around his neck..

The clever little thief had apparently waited until the purse strap was hanging just low enough off the counter… slipped his head through… and made his escape.

And let me tell you, there is nothing quite like the sight of a middle-aged man sprinting down the boardwalk in pursuit of a canine burglar to bring a neighborhood together.

At least, that’s what all my neighbors told me.