.jpg)
You’ve read countless articles about two of my dogs, Rebel and Ruger. As you might recall, we jokingly refer to Ruger as the old soul and Rebel as the crackhead. That doesn’t paint Rebel in a positive light, so I’d like to lay out some of her good qualities. Of course, I’m writing this after cleaning up the pieces of another toilet brush that Rebel consumed, along with another pair of John’s dollar store reading glasses.
Rebel is a big hot mess, there’s no denying it. But there’s a certain freedom surrounding her. She has no use for social graces or etiquette. If she wants you to pet her, she sticks her head right under your hand. She’ll even help you along by bobbing her head up and down so your hand is working in a patting motion. She virtually does all the work for you. Ruger, on the other hand, sits beside you, eyes wide and pleading with tongue panting. If you ignore him, he’ll whine to emphasize his need for attention. Honestly, I prefer Rebel’s approach. Sometimes you just have to beat me over the head and let me know directly what you require from me.
First thing in the morning, we let the dogs out into the yard. Rebel bounds across the grass, leaping into the air and barking. All four of her legs literally leave the ground as she soars through the air. Her next task is to speed around the fence line, much like a thoroughbred in a highly competitive race. Rebel ends her morning ritual by investigating all items not bolted to the ground. She’s not particular, and many times we’ve realized too late that something was left outside and fell prey to the jaws of Rebel. We have an outdoor bathroom, and we lecture everyone to shut the door and check the latch. The evidence of toilet paper strewn across our yard like a winter snowfall lets us know someone couldn’t follow instructions.
Ruger, by comparison, lopes along after his beloved girl, content to keep a much slower pace. He’s happy to trail along, inspecting items after Rebel has chewed them into complete oblivion. That dog’s just happy to be around, never concerned about anything or anyone. He needs attention like the average canine, but he spends a great deal of time lounging by himself. Or licking Rebel’s head—he does a lot of that too.
My question to you is: are you a Rebel or a Ruger? Do you greet each day with boundless joy and energy? Or do you stroll along, taking life as it comes? I won’t ask if you destroy toilet brushes or pillows. Honestly, that’s a personal decision and it’s none of my business.
Jann Goar Franklin graduated Russellville High School in 1985 and lives in Grand Cane, Louisiana. She also writes books, which are for sale at www.jannfranklin.com. You can reach her at jann@jannfranklin.com