 News Business Editorial Opinion Letters Arts Reviews Community Fun Travel Galleries Calendar Outdoors Dining Science Sports Español Front Page |
 |
It's A Dog's Life
So you might as well enjoy it
Lessons in Assertiveness
by Sparky, the Wonder Dog
Edited by P.V. Alvarado
Don’t fence me in!
Dear Sparky,
Since I live alone, and my master doesn’t believe in taking walks, I’m left pretty much to myself behind the fence. I do have a view of the street, though, so I can communicate with other canines. At first it didn’t bother me to see the guys and gals passing by. We’d bark and laugh and race back and forth along the fence, then they’d go on home.
My problem began yesterday when this cute little gal strutted by, and my friend Spot, who lives next door, was following her. I tried to get him to bark and race along the fence with me, but he never stopped. Then a bunch of the other guys ran past the fence. I tried to get them to tell me what was going on, but they were in too much of a hurry. About an hour later, I could hear everybody hollering and having a good time. I dug desperately to get under the fence, but the base is cement and I ended up cutting my nose and scraping my paws. Then I tried to jump it. Big mistake! I nearly hanged myself. I wanted to go to that party so bad!
What can I do, Sparky? My yard seemed so big. Now I feel left out and lonely.
Frustrated in Franklin
Dear Frustrated,
I know it’s not enough to say be thankful for what you have --- one square meal and a place to sleep. Life behind a fence is difficult to bear in the best of times, especially when we see others with so much freedom. I can tell you for sure though; the party season won’t last too long. So be patient. Your friends will be stopping by again to chew the fat through the fence.
Sparky
