My doggo thanks

WOOF! Hi, friends! It’s me, your favorite four-legged JournoDog.

Today, I have a very important update: I am so, so, so thankful. Seriously, if you could measure my thankfulness in tail wags, I’d cause a windstorm!

As we all prep for stray slices of turkey, fluff-atoes, biscuit crumbs, or pup-kin pie pieces, here’s my good dog gratitude list.

Walkies

We all know that sound, right?! The jingle of the collar and leash? It’s a sound of pure magic.

When my hooman says, “Go outside?” Or “Go for a walk?” my brain turns into scrambled eggs and my tail goes nuts.

It’s not just about sniffing all the important notes the neighborhood dogs or squirrels or bunnies left around the backyard. Yes, that is vital research for my reporting and re-claiming of everything.

But it’s also the feeling of paw-ploration and power, as my hoomans take me to patrol the streets. Every W-A-L-K is an adventure, and when we get back, I feel like a heroic explorer – just like Chewis and Bark!

A good stroll up the street is the best gift in the whole world… especially when you get to mark treats, grassy spots, hydrants, and bushes to claim them as your territory. True doggo paw-father power!

Treatos

Oh, the glorious crunch, the savory smell, the perfect moment when that little nugget of deliciousness hits my tongue.

Whether it’s a little cookie or a soft porky treat after I do a good sit, or a bite of yellow cheese from Ma after going Back from the kitchen. In the summer, I might get some white fluff of paw-sameness on top of my nose that I get to puzzle off with my tongue.

Treats are the currency of love in my world. My hoomans know exactly how to make my day instantly better.

Sometimes, I just look at them with my big, soulful brown eyes, and they understand. They just get it.

Treats are proof that the universe loves, and Dad and Ma are being told by the universe to serve me love treats. Am glad they listen sometimes.

Comfort corners

Three things make me melt into a puddle of happy dog goo, and they usually happen right after a long patrol and a delicious snack.

• Belly rubs: Is there anything better than flipping over, exposing the softest part of me, and getting those perfect scratches? My Dad has the magic touch. The way he find that one spot that makes my back leg thump, thump, thump! It’s the ultimate sign of trust and pure relaxation. I could stay there forever, just grinning contentedly while my person shows me he cares. It’s like a hug, but for my tummy!
• Comfy spots: I am a connoisseur of comfort. There’s my favorite beds, which are like a fluffy cloud just for me. Just depends whether it’s in my office for work breaks, or in the TV room while I’m relaxing (but still protecting!) my Ma and Dad. And, of course, there’s my carpet chair and front window leather chair, where I can curl up while still being on alert as needed. No matter where I land, sinking into a soft, cozy spot for a good snooze is my way of recharging for the next adventure.

I hope you all have a holiday full of happy smells, delicious treats, and lots of cozy naps.

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.

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