Since I am a dog, writing a column read primarily by humans, I sometimes have a hard time coming up with topics that I have the ability to opine about, and that a human might find interesting.
For example, I know a lot about smelling things, and you humans don’t.
I know a lot about marking my territory with pee, but humans seem to do it with things. Lots, and lots of things. If they can’t be chewed or they don’t squeak, I ask you, what are they for??
If you could walk in my four paws for just one day, you’d understand:
All people are put on earth for us to love and lick. If you could get this through your human heads, the world would be a better place. Alas.
Car interiors need to be redesigned so we can sit up front, beside our humans, and not be stuck in the back seat in solitary confinement.
Treats are meant to be given at all times of the day and night.
So, yeah. These are the important things I think about while you humans are busy with your “meetings” and “emails.”
If you could just understand that you’re here to be loved (and licked), that treats are meant for sharing (all day), and that the world is best experienced with your nose in the wind and your paws in the grass, I promise you’d all be a lot happier.
You humans just THINK you have control of life.
But if you join me at least once a day in observation mode, sitting outside - in the glorious natural world - and listen, really listen to the birds, and frogs, and crickets, and smell the trees and grass in all its wonder, and jump in puddles or creeks or lakes, well, I know you’ll be happier.
With an over abundance of love,
Dudley
P.S. And, take your leash off once a day and run, run, run. Let those ears flop.
Do you know about the Okoboji Writers’ and Songwriters’ Retreat? We’ll be outside a lot, listening to the wind, and watching the lake, and being among wonderful humans who are curious, love to learn, and are committed to personal development.
Check out this Substack column devoted to the retreat and learn who is coming, and why. If you sign up by July 15 you’ll save $100.
Thanks, Master Dudley. Your words are wise; your advice is sound.
Hi Dudley, as your humans know, there's a wonderful dog park in Winterset. I believe you've gone for a run there before, maybe more than one (run). Please come back any time!