By Ingrid Messina
You know, I’ve been hearing a lot lately about how much my small human pal has learned at this place called school. Well, that’s good, I guess, but have you ever stopped to think how much I had to learn?
When I first came to you, I couldn’t believe what a big crate you lived in. I thought at least part of it had to be my “turn out” pen. But then, you found that out, didn’t you? Thank goodness, it didn’t take me to long to learn that first lesson.
Along with that, I had to learn to walk on some of those slippery floors of yours. I really don’t think a Greyhound’s legs are supposed to go in four different directions at the same time. Then, there was that “hard air!” I’d be walking along, going from room to room, doing just fine, when, Wham! – right into that hard air place. I’ve since found out you call it a glass door. And that big box you have in the backyard, which you call a pool – how was I supposed to know I couldn’t just walk across it, from one side to the other?
See, learning to become a house pet after my racing career wasn’t all that easy. And that isn’t everything! I want to do what you want me to do, but why is it okay for me to eat out of that little bowl you put on the floor, but not okay to eat from that other big bowl you have in the kitchen. You know the one I mean. It’s the place where you put little bits of food, paper, and other interesting stuff. I don’t think “garbage” is a nice name for something that terrific. Speaking of bowls… there’s that “water bowl / toilet bowl” thing I still can’t figure out.
Just when I thought I had everything under control, you brought me out and put me in the car. I certainly love to ride in the car now, but what a learning experience. Have you ever tried standing up on those seats when the car is moving and turning? Finally, I thought, “I’ve got it, I’ve got it!” Just about that point, someone stopped the car. Remember? That’s when I had a personal introduction to the back of the front seat.
Hey, I’m not complaining. In fact, I never dreamed my life could be so great. I just thought maybe I deserved a doggie diploma.
Oh, there’s one more thing I’ve learned from you – loving and being loved is the greatest experience on earth. I think I won the BIG race!
Signed, Your Greyhound Graduate
