Instructions for Care
Clancy: Kid, you must stop pooping on the patio. That is not permitted and it’s gross!
Percy: What difference does it make? It’s outside. I had to poop in my crate for 5 years and nobody cared.
Clancy: Well, Kid, she won’t like it. You’re home now forget the past. I always went
at the bottom of the yard. Didn’t want everyone seeing my business. And another thing you bark too much! And too loud!
Percy: Man, I had to keep my trap shut for 5 years. The other dogs in the hood do it.
Why can’t I?
Clancy: Some barking is okay, Kid, but you go over the top. Plus, you bark at everyone
that comes into her house. That’s tacky. I only barked at the doorbell and quit. These are her friends, you must welcome them.
Percy: But I’m protecting her and our place.
Clancy: Kid, you have no class. You’re blue-collar, street smart. I was certified.
I went to school to earn my vest. I know what’s appropriate you don’t!
Percy: Yeah, well that’s me, I’m a survivor.
Clancy: Do you need all that petting? You follow her into the bathroom and demand it.
Percy: Yes, I need it. For five years no one touched me. She likes it and it feels so good. You got attention from day one as a pup. Let me enjoy the ride.
15 thoughts on "Instructions for Care"
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Oh our pet’s personalities, I recognize these two. Love the imagination behind this and the execution.
Thanks so much- I’ve imagined these conversations for a while now.
This was charming. Percy’s story is sad, but I’m really glad he seems to be finding his happy ending!
Love the dialogue format of this, and I laughed at “that’s tacky.”
Awwwww. I love this.
Aww! Love the imagined conversation between your two pups.
You set the scene right off with “Kid” which I love. Nice way to distinguish both.
Wonderful story—and form! That last portion of dialogue, especially touching. Yes, the need, the feel, the plea.
I do this with my dogs too! Very playful poem and a delight to read.
Wow – I feel like I know your dogs so well now!
I love this, Linda.
This is so good, Linda! I like the contrast between the two and their different perspectives.
Liking this path.
Seeing some line drawings to accompany it!
love these conversation…playful, delightful and real!
Clever, creative dialogue–draws in the reader, even one who would never have a pet.