Canine Encounter

[ndrosen]

Earlier today, I met a pair of women enjoying their coffees outdoors, with a pair of dogs on leashes. One of the dogs was a sheltie, and the other was a tricolor beagle. The beagle wasn't that interested in me; he seemed to think that if his humans had some kind of food or drink, there must be some food around for him, so he put his paws on the knee of one of his humans. The sheltie showed more interest in me, so I got to pat and scritch her, which she really seemed to appreciate. Then the beagle paid at least some attention to this guy who was petting his packmate. I mentioned my beagle companion of many years ago, chatted with the women, and in due course went off to do my grocery shopping.