Pet Chatter Stories

"I don't come running like a dog. I'm the herd leader and I have my dignity. I do like visiting, but I'm more discriminating than the boys. I prefer to watch and make sure the visitors aren't harming my herd. There are times when a visitor will pique my interest and then I'll visit, but they're special. If you ask me to interact with certain people I'll comply, but my preference is to choose the ones that I'm drawn to."

You stood back and let Thyme rule the water? What made you do that? It was greatly appreciated.

Thyme needed to drink. It made him more secure to play dominance games. Even though it was just posturing, it helped him feel more secure and able to drink his fill. My job is to take care of the herd. Thyme needed to go through that ritual for his mental and physical well being. It did not in any way threaten my position as leader. I was setting a good example for the others which is also one of my responsibilities. When the herd functions as a team it is stronger and safer.

How does he feel about his saddle? Does he have any discomfort?

I prefer no saddle. The saddle squeezes me and is uncomfortable. It's like wearing a girdle and I can't fully breathe. I feel constricted and can't enjoy our riding time. Everything else is fine. I love our wide-open spaces and all the yummy grass. I feel good about my herd and am pleased with the way things run so smoothly."

[His owner remarked that she had been over tightening the girth as the saddle tended to slip on his round barrel. Thus the girdle reference was quite meaningful.]

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