Can We Talk?
Dixie here. While my trusty sidekick bikes across the Willow Creek Trail and beyond, I’m going to share some thoughts on this holiday weekend.
I’m at patriotic as the next dog. I love living in a nation where most dogs are reveared as celebrated members of the family. Nowadays we have parks, sports, hotels, spas, resorts — heck, now we even have an airline! — just for us! And let’s not forget the dogs that served alongside our brave soldiers on distant shores. Some sniffed for land mines. Others rescued fallen comrades. Noble creatures, one and all.
Having said that, I must admit that July 4 is my least favorite holiday. It’s the noise. It’s the food I crave but I know I shouldn’t have. Here are some tips for keeping my friends and I safe this weekend.
1. Most of my friends are sensitive to sudden loud noises. Fireworks come to mind. We need a quiet place to retreat where we can curl up with a bone or any of the other food dispensing toys found at Furry Little Monsters. And PLEASE — don’t leave us out in the yard or tether us to a stake this weekend. You have no idea how frightening that can be during the rocket’s red glare.
2. Animals have a natural aversion to fire. We don’t need to see you spell your name in the air with sparklers and we’re not impressed with colored smoke bombs. What we need is to feel safe and secure (see above).
3. Keep us on the wagon. Letting us lap up your favorite brewsky may get a laugh from old Uncle Charlie but it lights up my belly like a Roman Candle.
4. Grapes, raisins, onions, avocados, macadamia nuts are toxic no-nos. If you insist on indulging us, stop by Furry Little Monsters and pick up some American-made treats or add some yummy vegetables to my kibble. Kongs gorged with peanut butter of Kong paste are pretty cool too.
5. Keep your bug spray and sunscreen to yourself. I know you mean well but that stuff wasn’t meant for us and can have some dire side effects.
6. Most pools are a one way ticket to disaster. Getting in is easy. Getting out is another story. You know we love the water so keep an eye on us if we’re invited on the pool deck with your posse.
Go have your fun without us. It’s really OK. Just come home in one piece. Remember that we need you almost as much as you need us.
