a stint at dog-sitting (lyn)

I meet my friend Ellen for what was going to be a walk along the East River.  But it’s too humid.  At least I think so.

We take her gorgeous poodle something dog (cockapoo, I think) with us.  BJ is the perfect dog…well behaved, happy, and smart.  He adores Ellen.

Soon after we get to the Dog Run Ellen’s phone rings.  It’s her teen-age son, doing a typical teen-age son kind of thing.  He and a friend have decided to get into a cab with no money, and assume someone’s mother will be available to pay.  Having no choice, Ellen meets her son nearby to pay the cab driver while I babysit for BJ.

Despite all the dogs begging for BJ’s attention (he is very popular), BJ ignores them.  Occasionally he will saunter over to the edge of the dog park and peer morosely out, looking for his master.  He pretends not to notice the ball I toss to him… the same ball he joyously retrieved when Ellen was tossing it.  I don’t take it personally.  BJ sits quietly at my feet waiting.

About 15 minutes pass before Ellen returns.  BJ sees her walking up the path leading to the dog park and life is good again.  You can see BJ’s relief.  Feeling secure,  BJ now runs around with his fellow playmates, showing particular attention to the little white fluffy dogs.

Dogs are much easier than teenage boys.  Just feed them and love them and they will listen to your every word and adore you unconditionally.  They will never accuse you of nagging (because you don’t; they listen the first time).  They will do everything with you, and are never particular about what those things are.  They will never stay out late and make you worry.  And they will always stay within their budgets, never expecting you to cover their cab fares.