Now it might look like I'm just a pet, but in fact I am a working dog and so was the Boss. I don't mean working in the sense that I'm out in the field rounding up sheep, or sniffing out drugs at an airport, although I can see that might have unexpected bonuses. Neither am I directing a person with a visual impairment safely around the obstacles and hazards of everyday life or greeting seniors in care homes, instead, like the Boss before me, I am a literary fur.
This is actually harder work than it sounds. Firstly, there's the actual writing, which isn't easy for a dog with paws. I've taken over the Boss's Sussex Living column and I've just written my second installment.Then there are the photographs to go with the writing and to advertise the Boss's books. Rolo had got a firm understanding: photos mean treats. It's taken me a little while but I'm getting there myself. I may not want to pose with bunny ears on but if I oblige, I get generously rewarded. The Boss had actually learnt to smile at the camera, whereas I still tend to look a bit solemn, but I am at least learning to look into the lens instead of in the opposite direction, usually because I'm keeping my beady eye in the treat hand it's got to be said.
Then there is my role of office dog. This is a particular skills set. Firstly, I have to entertain 'Her Indoors' in the interludes between meaningful activity, for example, when her computer is booting up or she goes to get something from a file or cupboard. The technique is to present her with a toy, firmly but politely, and insist she gets a break from all that screen-based activity. Then there is the meeting and greeting of colleagues and students. Her friend and colleague, Danielle, is always a good bet, generous on the treats and toys front so she always gets a warm welcome from me. One of 'Her Indoors' students is really a cat lady, but I've been gradually winning her round to a little bit of dog admiration. Quite a feat.
So whilst it might appear that I'm just sleeping and playing, I'm actually working very hard in my various capacities. In fact I'm seriously thinking for getting my own bandana or coat explaining that I'm a literary dog so that people take my role a bit more seriously and allow me into cafes, public buildings and shops, for research and inspiration. It's the least they can do to assist a dog who's providing a service to the wider world.
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| The Boss, training me up |
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| Hard at it |
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| Advertising *sigh* |
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| And again, but slightly more dignified |
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| My first Sussex Living column |
