Just Thinkin’: Going to the dogs?

By Hal McBride

Some know I am very fond of sidewalks. I view those in our neighborhood as genuine community assets. Sidewalks build relationships. Neighbors walk and talk to each other and to others.

They walk behind a child driving a Cozy Couple or pulling a child seated in a Radio Flyer along behind them. Or a family with three children under the age of seven whose process Billie identifies as similar to “herding cats.” Now these things still happen and I’m quite grateful. During recent times I’ve begin to notice a change. Fewer kids and more dogs.

People holding leashes being led by dogs. To me it is beginning to look as if couples are having fewer children and having more dogs. Children have always occupied a preferred place in my pecking order. They slide down terraces and twirl around street signs. It is as if they feel obliged to visit landmarks all along their established route. There is an uninhibited joy to their play. Children stop and visit, well, I suppose dogs do too if you keep a treat in your pocket.

Now that I think about it, dogs have regular sign posts and fire plugs that require visiting. Parents and dog owners. On the whole, parents are much more reliable about cleaning up after their children than dog owners are about cleaning up after their dogs. There are many who do just fine but I swear some must look at your house and think, “Surprise!”

That is another thing that is different, I don’t see signs on our neighborhood lawns saying “Please pick up after your kids.” Dramatically on the increase are people walking multiple dogs. I commented. My wife said, “They are dog-walkers.” I asked, “That’s an occupation?” She said, “Yes.” Her look suggested she had another thought or two she longed to share but didn’t. It seems dog walkers exist because owners are too busy.  

My Grandmother Lane put people who are too busy in prospective for me. Billie and I had not been to Stigler in a while. Mother, trying to rationalize our absence, told her I was just very busy. My grandmother wrote me and stated, “If you’re too busy to come see me, you’re too damn busy.” I started the car.

Now, our last dog, Littleman, was a Carin Terrier who lived up to every stereotype of hyperactivity associated with the breed. I walked him and referred to him as my personal trainer. With all this said, I’d like to say, “Walk your dog, it’s good for both of you.”

I’m certain I had a point or two here but I just can’t remember what they were.

Is there a place to state dogs are not responsible for COVID? Maybe a cold Coke and a few peanuts will help me clear this up.

“I love a dog. He does nothing for political reasons.” – Will Rogers

Hal McBride was raised in Haskell County and is the author of several books, which are available at the Haskell County Historical Society.