Caliban is owned and loved by Erin and James Payne of Fort Worth, Texas.  His family includes four other Whippets - Winston, Lomax, Sylvester and Vigo -  not to mention a handful of cats.  Erin recently was asked to write a few words about Cal.  Here is what she said:

"In many ways we were like anxious parents anticipating the breeding and puppies of Diva and Adair's first litter. We couldn't wait to pick out a beautiful baby girl to take home and love, show, course, and race. As soon as the puppies were wiggling, we were perched in Dana's puppy pen. One little puppy kept snuggling up next to me. I'd move it away in fear I'd squish it, and it would wriggle right back to my side. This is how I ended up with my 4th male whippet, Caliban, Ima Tempest. It was a real toss up between Cal and Noni, but Cal was the one that really stole my heart. He continues to snuggle to my side and makes me smile everyday. He's my little love and definitely my heart dog. 

Cal's done everything I've asked him to do, and I have not asked him to do much that he didn't seem wildly enthusiastic about. He showed for awhile, earned his ASFA field championship title, and earned his companion racing titles on the oval (NOTRA) and the straight track (WRA).He loved to chase the bunny and we loved to let him do it. He is now retired after recovering from an injury that temporarily left him paralyzed. Even in his recovery, he swam, walked, and did physical therapy that he really didn't want to do, but since we asked, he did it. Physical therapy is one of those things that nobody likes, but you have to do it to get well. Now he can run and play with his brothers, and we couldn't be happier for his recovery and are quite proud of the determination and courage he demonstrated.

Cal's got the biggest heart and really enjoys life. He's always got a huge smile for everyone he meets. He's the life of the party in the backyard, shaking his soft Frisbee and enticing the other dogs to chase him. When we get home, he spins and crashes into us. At night, he pokes me with a cold nose and blinks at me with huge, round eyes. That's his way of saying "Make room for me, I'm coming up." Once I invite him up, he's snuggled into my side to help me read or watch TV. What more could you ask for in a dog?

Well, the only other thing you could ask for is a sound temperament. I have to say that this is the most even-tempered dog I've ever owned. He's always well behaved around new dogs, our cats, small kids, strange adults (and even with strange kids and small adults). 

I love my IMa whippet - it's been quite a pleasure becoming part of the IMa family and getting to share my home with this most special dog." -- 10.2008