Our kind of people?
Dear Frankie,
The other day two new dogs were in the park. I asked Myrtle if she knew who they were? She said someone said they were thoroughbred show dogs. They looked friendly enough, so I went over and introduced myself.
I said, “Hi, my name is Mitzi.”
They smiled at me but didn’t say anything, so I asked them their names. One said her name was Celeste and the other said. “I’m Portia.”
Then they didn’t say anything, so I said nice to meet you and went my way. The next day I saw them and went over and said hi. Once again, they didn’t say anything and just smiled. I was starting to get the picture that they weren’t interested in talking to me.
So, I asked Myrtle, “Why are they so stand-offish?”
She said maybe show dogs only mingle with dogs like themselves.
Are all show dogs like that?
Perplexed, Mitzi
Dear Mitzi,
I don’t have much experience with show dogs. I’m grateful I made it from the street to a shelter. What I wonder is, who taught these dogs to make friends with dogs only like themselves? It could be the humans in their lives. I have never heard a dog say anything like that.
Did you know there are private clubs for humans requiring you to have the proper credentials before the club members can invite you to join? Credentials, in human terms, mean things like coming from a prestigious family, going to the right school, having a fancy job title, etc. In sum, it means that you are rich and influential.
Can you imagine the dog park having a canine committee to decide if a dog wears the right collar, has a pedigree and lives in a ritzy neighborhood, etc., to determine if they can come into the park? Personally, I like being with dogs from all walks of life. Just think of the many paths they have traveled and the tales (no pun intended) they could tell.
I wouldn’t give up on Celeste and Portia just yet. Maybe they’ll come to their senses and join in when they see the fun you and your friends have every day.
Best, Frankie
© 2021 Geneva Woodruff
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