The Nice Thing About Strangers
Creative Non-Fiction Short Stories. :) Travel, Oldsters, Love, and Compassion.
Okay, Here We Go
“That’s a good dog,” she says as her huge creature chases a panicked wild bunny, then runs into the neighbor’s yard to relieve itself. “Go get that rabbit. I know you can get it.” The dog lost interest in the rabbit, and its owner, and continues to fertilize the lawn. The second dog, another huge beast, joins in. Clearly intelligent animals, as they’ve chosen one of the nicest yards on the block.
The owner calls to her dogs in full sentences. “Maisy, Rawley, okay, it’s might rain soon. It’s a little windy. Come on back. It’s time to go.” They heed nothing. Like disobedient children whose pleading mothers strongly advise them not to do what they are about to do, then sit patiently as they do just what was prohibited. “Okay, here we go. Let’s get going, guys. I want to head home now.” They remain in the neighbor’s yard, digging small holes, running through flowerbeds, and their patient owner gazes at the sky to pretend she isn’t being wholly ignored. She sips from her water bottle. She walks a few paces in her desired direction. They are unmoved. “Okay, here we go. Come on now. Maisy, Rawley, that’s enough now. Here we go. I’m leaving without you.” Bored by their disobedience, the dogs slowly tromp to her side. She leans to their level. “Good girl, good boy, nice dogs, you’re so good.” They pause so she can pet each head, each chin, then they take the lead, nibbling at each other and dashing forward, as she admires their excellent behavior.
–Colorado
“There is a dog.” Büyükada, near Istanbul, Turkey
The Nice Thing About Strangers 
I hate to see owners encourage their pets to kill. It’s so cruel.
Oh, they didn’t get even close to the bunny, thank goodness! It was apparently just to give him a tiny heart attack. Which I also find cruel since I adore bunnies!
I think they need to see more internet videos about dogs/cats/bunnies/chicks/ etc. getting along and even loving other species!
🙂 Great idea! Let’s make one!
I like it! I have no talent, but I like it! You’re the one with the skills and my daughter in law is a marketing genius and we’ll collaborate! “Can’t we all just get along”…