Making Smart Pay Off
Dear Frankie,
I am a seven-year-old poodle. I started agility school when I was a puppy. As soon as I graduated, I began competing in the agility trials.
I am now one of the top competitors in the sport. When I’m at a competition people often compliment me on my intelligence. On occasion someone will say I’m almost as clever as an Australian Sheep Herding Dog.
This comparison never ceases to annoy and amaze me. Sheepdogs live their entire life outside under brutal weather conditions and spend their days moving a flock of smelly and dumb sheep from one place to another.
On the other hand, I sleep in a soft bed and have lots of free time to relax and get my hair and nails done. It’s essential to look your best in a competition. So now I ask you, which dog do you really think is the smartest?
Skipper
Dear Skipper,
I don’t think your question is about which dog is more intelligent, but rather about the rewards the smartest dog gets for its accomplishments.
You believe that dogs awarded with a life of comfort, public applause and blue ribbons are the smartest. I’m not sure sheep herding dogs would agree with you or if given the opportunity would trade places.
However, the rewards they get are a tremendous sense of pride in living a meaningful life and playing a vital role in keeping thousands of sheep safe.
A saying, “To each his own,” means what is rewarding for one may not be rewarding for another. Although the rewards for champions and herders are different, isn’t it fortunate how much pleasure and satisfaction they bring to each of you?
Best, Frankie
© 2021 Geneva Woodruff
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