Good morning, digital neighbors! Happy Tuesday, friends & refugees, early birds & later-dayers, conversants, lurkers, and seekers roaming about on the Report. Hey there to all you misfits and political homeless milling about with the PHAM, and finally to all those ADD irregulars, WSN curators, and curmudgeons lingering about at Padre’s.

My life has been abundantly blessed with pets—I consider that a luxury. Pets often serve little purpose other than to share our lives and, hopefully, our joy. Some pets are working animals; many dogs fulfill that role if they hunt with you, work on a farm, or provide services such as those of a support dog. I’d argue that true service dogs are less “pets” and more partners: their primary job is the task, not emotional engagement. Still, I know many people who are deeply grateful for their service animals.

A couple of quotes and photos today. Rylee and Ivy are front and center!

Cats Make Us Feel Good

“Cats make one of the most satisfying sounds in the world—they purr. Almost all cats make us feel good about ourselves because they let us know they feel good about us, about themselves, and about our relationship with them. A purring cat is a form of high praise, like a gold star on a test paper. It is reinforcement we would all like to believe about ourselves—that we are nice.” — Roger Caras

Companion

“Is there anything more satisfying on a cold, blustery day than a good book, a hearty fire, and a soft purring friend by your side?” — Mary Maude Daniels

What I Learned from My Dog

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in my face to be pure ecstasy.
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Let others know when they’ve invaded my territory.
Take naps and stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something I’m not.
If what I want lies buried, dig until I find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
Thrive on attention and let people touch me.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When I’m happy, dance around and wag my entire body.
No matter how often I’m scolded, don’t buy into the guilt and pout—run right back and make friends.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Author Unknown