Pet Sounds #92: Left Arm Tan’s Best Friend Is Goose … the Dog
Seasoned musician Daniel Hines launched his band Left Arm Tan (RIYL Calexico, the Jayhawks) in Fort Worth, Texas, in 2010 with relatively modest ambitions. The charming alt-rock crew also includes Brian Lee (lead vocals, piano, guitar); Mark Belding (horns, steel guitar, guitars, harmonies); Jeff Scroggins (bass, harmonies); Shawn Light (guitars, mandolin, keys, harmonies); and Tim Manders (drums, harmonies).
Hines underwent a series of surgeries last year but also wrote a gobsmacking 57 songs, breathing new life into his band, which had split for a short period. The resulting record, When Tigers Smoked (which means “once upon a time” in Korean, and was produced by Old 97’s and Damnwells collaborator Salim Nourallah), comes out October 9.
Arguably even trustier than Hines’ band, though, is his Australian Shepherd, Goose, who entered Hines’ life during COVID and just turned 6 years old. Enjoy our exchange with Hines and, of course, the pics of him and his pooch (yes, we know you well, dear readers).
How did Goose enter your life?
He’s my third Australian Shepherd. Our last one, Lucy, passed at age 16 during the first week of Covid. Our house was pretty quiet, so I knew I wanted another pup – but we waited until around Father’s Day. I drove from Fort Worth to Texarkana to pick him up. Love at first sight!
In terms of training, what came easiest to him and what was most challenging?
He’s incredibly easy and smart. Most remarkable dog I’ve been around. He just understands immediately what you want and does it. I’ve never had to discipline him at all.
What’s the most tired, oft-repeated “joke” that strangers subject you to when they learn your dog’s name is Goose?
A lot of people think he’s a girl or they don’t know the Top Gun reference until I explain it. When we get another dog, I’m going to name him Iceman to make it more obvious!
What’s the most amusing habit/routine he has – or, if those are inapplicable, can you share a particularly amusing anecdote involving him?
As a pup and young adult he was super food-motivated. One time I found him passed out by his bag of dog food. He got into it and ate so much he looked like a pot-bellied pig and couldn’t walk. Another time, I dropped a whole head of broccoli while cooking, and he ate the whole thing.
Does Goose like people more than dogs?
Goose is incredibly attached to me. He loves all animals, but even when he’s playing with another dog, he keeps one eye on me.
What are his favorite foods?
Whipped cream. When my wife pulls out a carton of heavy cream, he recognizes it and goes to sit by the mixer so we can have the first taste.
What’s the scariest incident in which Goose got himself into?
Goose went exploring in the stand of trees behind the house. While he was out there, a small pack of coyotes appeared in another area of our yard, including a three-legged coyote! Goose came crashing out of the trees as they disappeared across the fence line, narrowly avoiding an encounter.
Has Goose made any appearances on your songs or inspired any of your lyrics?
He hasn’t made it into any songs, but he’s been at most of our writing sessions since he was a puppy. He’s just part of the band now.
How do you keep Goose healthy, and what tips would you give to other musicians who want to do the same but are frequently on tour?
Fortunately, my wife and my mom (Goose’s Nana) have always been able to watch him while I’m gone. We are lucky he’s been super healthy.
Do you think Goose will ever get a brother or sister – or do you have your hands filled with him?
We are looking for a companion to keep him active. He’s 6 and in his prime, but I know he needs a buddy. We are trying to decide on another Australian Shepherd, an Australian cattle dog or possibly a lap dog.
Check out the Pet Sounds archive here. Go here to shop for Left Arm Tan music and merch. They band is also on Bandcamp, Instagram and Facebook.
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