Hey, everyone! It’s me, your attention-loving and tail-wagging JournoDog!
Today, I wanna talk about our collective need to do better and be nice to others. Too often in this world, there are GRRRs and PAW PUNCHES, BARKS & BITES when we really need a little conversation, butt-sniffing and understanding.
This is where a story comes to mind.
The other day, I went to camp. Mom and Dad take me there every so often and leave me, and my furry friends are there. We play, run around, rest, and play some more — all while trying to either avoid or be featured in the people pictures when they happen.
My friend Theo and I were playing, and it got a little rough. Turns out, it was too rough and supposedly I got the blame as being some called “instigator.” So the Camp Counselors put us each into a timeout place. I did not understand, because I thought we were just rough-playing, and I didn’t think I was bothering Theo.
Anyhow, after our little break, the Camp Counselor people saw me go up to Theo and sit. I looked at him, and then offered him my paw. A moment later, Theo did the same. And then we nudged each other with our wet noses, with a bump of respect — kind of like people do with fist bumps, or something else they do when mimicking our “shake” commands.
From the people in the room, this friendly exchange between us 2 furballs was described as “sweet.“
When Mom and Dad heard this story, they gushed. They called me “such a good boi.” And it makes them smile.
A few days later at a different time at camp, I took my lessons and welcomed a couple new pups to the place. I didn’t know them, but since I’m an “old pro” here now, these 2 new doggos were a bit unsure of what to make of everything so I went and said Hi. Then I brought them into my little clan, making it more comfortable so they didn’t feel so alone.
Dad says we need more of this type of behavior in the world. He says that when people disagree an type their fingers raw on their little social media pads, they often grumble and yell and verbally attack others online. He says it’s something he has found himself doing, too.
With so many scary booms and flashes and cries of sadness on the TV these days, when the word WAR and INVADE is being flashed non-stop and causing so much heartache, I just don’t understand why the people don’t step away from each other a bit? Why they go to battle, when there isn’t even toys or treats around to battle over?
Instead of continuing on and carrying forward those GRRS and GROWLS, people need to get a little time out and then come back to the person they were exchanging words with and have a “shake.” And a nose nudge of peace.
Until next time, or whenever the news beckons like a barking dog you can’t help but pay attention to, #JournoDog out.
As always, remember: Love your pets. Support local journalism. Believe in facts and trust credible sources. Get along with other people and pets. And try to smile and find a little happiness for your heart every day.
## 30 ##
JournoDog Chronicles 