Sometimes getting new stuff takes time getting used to. Take, for example, the red booties Mom bought me a few years ago. They were tight on my ankles, and my paws couldn’t relay sensory information to my brain about the condition of the floor and pavement. The first time I wore them, I performed a Russian marching step into the living room, plopped down next to the sofa, and pouted the rest of the afternoon. Finally, she removed them, and I’ve never seen them since.
This year, though, my two-legged sister gave me some nice soft socks with bumps on the bottom, so I won’t slip on the tile floor. They don’t hurt my ankles, and I don’t have to kick a high step to walk. I like them.
One time I received a puzzle. This was very confusing to me because I could smell the treats but couldn’t see them. Low and behold, I had to learn how to slide plastic covers with my paw to find the little nuggets. I’m not a working dog; I’m a retrieving dog. Mom could have thrown the treats, or hidden them in the kitchen. I guess this brainteaser game is supposed to increase my IQ. I believe I’m smart enough.
This year, though, I got a roller gadget that I can push with my nose, and the treats magically drop on the floor. Now this is my kind of work.
I see on my “Larry’s Words of Wisdom” 2026 Desk Calendar that Valentine’s Day is coming up on the 14th. When you buy your dog or sweetheart some new stuff, be sure it is age and animal appropriate. Chocolate is okay for Moms and Dads, but dogs prefer biscuits. As a matter of fact, Dog Biscuit Appreciation Day is February 23rd. Make a note. Be sure your dog tries some new stuff. Sweet potato flavored biscuits would be nice. Or apple flavored. Or maybe some soft salmon-smelling chewies.
I hope all your new stuff is comfy cozy, fun to play with, and doesn’t cause brain frustration.
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Love, Larry