Admittedly there are dog families and cat families
Have know a few that had both
Seemingly there is just as much prejudice about likening a dog or cat
As there is about the color of your skin or your religion
But my ilk were dogs
Which gave me the opportunity to be involved
In the socialization of ‘Molly”
My daughter’s families latest rescue dog acquisition
Seeking to stay active and a new six month old puppy
Would present endless energy
The challenge would be to simply let Molly outside
And let her water the lawn or whatever
Have trained many a dog over the last fifty years
‘Back of my hand’ is my reference manual
Observe animal’s behavior until goal is achieved and repeat
Never failed till now
Did forget to mention Molly is a bloodhound
A beautiful red brown big bloodhound
Only knew bloodhound were very good at sniffing
Their least acquired skill was watering the lawn when requested
Nonetheless daily, clear, rainy, or spitting snow
This ritual was pursued
Alas I had met my training match
No not Molly
Her nose, her OCD nose
Everything, everything had to be smelled, sniffed, and inhaled
Occasionally a neighbors dog might bark
Momentarily halting the search for a new scent
Sought out clues to my training failure on Google
Bloodhounds can track their prey for five miles
Five miles, I can’t walk five miles
Walking the yard for five miles would be a day’s walk
Originally had this idea that after Molly had done her duy
That she would be rewarded with a treat when taken in
95% of the time she would not merit a reward
But for going back in the house she got one anyway
Now the routine continues with Molly
Spending most of her search
Circling me until I take her in and give her a
Most undeserved treat!
At least I was well trained
Frank X Cameron 2/22/2020
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