Tuesday 13th December 2011 – Into the big wide world

Today Ari will set off into the big wide world. At last all his vaccinations should be effective and he can safely walk where other animals have been. He’s been asking me what it’s like out there. He’s been out in his little rucksack but that isn’t the same thing. I sat him down and gave him a ‘man to man’ talk. This is what I said:

“Well, little friend, you’ll find it strange. For a start you keep your human on a lead so that you know where they are at all times. There will come a time when you’ll let them off, but at that point I recommend finding a stick for them to hold so you can know they haven’t wandered off.

There will be many things you want to sniff and then every so often there will be things you wish you hadn’t sniffed. There will be things that smell so good that you feel compelled to roll in them so that the smell can go with you. Then of course there’s mud. Thick deep black squelchy mud. Mud should always be shared with a friend. If the friend isn’t there to go in the mud with you then it is your duty to take as much of the mud as you can back to your friend. Horse dung tastes good and seems gentle on the stomach, but only eat fox or cat poo in small quantities. If you meet another dog, don’t assume they will be as nice as your dog family at home. Be polite and if they want to play join in. If they are rude to you tell them you have a whole pack at home and you’ll send the girls round to sort them out. I’d go myself but I prefer not to get into arguments. I usually come off worse. People on the other paw are generally friendly, but wait for them to come to you. If you go running to them they can be a bit funny.

Most of all, whatever happens, remember we’re here for you and will always be ready to listen when you need to talk. Stay safe little man. We love you.”

I had to stop there. It was all getting a bit mushy and I was having difficulty speaking. It

made me realise just how fond of the little guy I’ve become. I thought you might like this photo. He was so tired last night that whilst my Mistress and Master had their meal, he curled up on the floor on my Master’s feet and slippers.

Alfie Dog with a little help from Rosemary J Kind alfie@alfiedog.me.uk

Alfie’s Diary – the Book is available at Amazon UK –https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B00583ZGSA