Every once in a while, when I’m talking to my dogs, it occurs to me that it’s probably a good thing that no one else is listening. For example, almost daily, I have to tell Leto or Tika that I am not a napkin.
You’d think they’d understand by now that after a doggie feeding event, I don’t appreciate a canine face being wiped on my pants. I guess if you don’t have opposable thumbs or access to paper products, your clean-up options are limited.
After a number of years of living with my canines however, I’ve become wise to their ways. Leto, the largest and most slobbery of our dogs is the worst offender. So I try to keep an eye on him. If he’s been sighted in the vicinity of the water dish or a food bowl, I become wary. Many times, he’ll amble over, trying to look innocent with a little telltale bit of slobber hanging from his lower jaw. Sure, he may look like he’s just coming by for some affection, but I know he’s got other plans. Usually, I try and dodge him and stop his head from making contact with my pants. He thinks I’m just petting him, but actually, I’m also gently guiding his face away.
Unfortunately, if I’m working on my computer, it’s a lot easier for him to sneak up on me. If I’m not paying attention, Leto will manage to get close enough to plop his big head in my lap. He looks pretty pleased with himself as he plants a big spot of drool on my thigh.
Of course, when he looks up at me lovingly, it’s hard to be angry. So I give him a big pat on the head and tell him yet again that I’m not a napkin. Maybe he’ll really believe me this time.