Of Dogs and Men

It's funny. I never knew why people loved dogs so much that they can play with them, eat with them, sleep with them, do EVERYTHING with them!

I was always a bystander. People play with their dogs, it's their own fun, just like anyone playing with his Gameboy or new stereo set for that matter. I don't rush up to dogs to rub them or tickle them going: "Oh! What a handsome dog!"

Simon said I'm not a dog-person. What's a dog-person? Simon says a dog-person has a natural affinity for dogs. And dogs have a natural affinity for a dog-person.

When I was first introduced to Jen Jen, the pretty doggie in the picture, I was so thrilled by her stuff-toy-like appearance but aside from that, it was awkward. I didn't know what to do. Well, it's not like I've had no dogs before, but dogs in my vocab, have always been the guard-dog; dogs or all pets for that matter are all liabilities which you hafta take care of.

Jen Jen showed utterly no respect for me. She probably sniffed out that I was no dog-person. She climbed all over me, jumped at me and would only be still when her owner, Simon commanded her to sit. The only consolation was that her tail was wagging (for you dog-ignoramuses out there like me, it is good news- it means she's friendly). Perhaps if there was any "other woman" in our relationship, it would be Jen Jen. Of course it's so silly to look at her in this way. Jen Jen is really endearing. She's extremely obedient and she has given me a fresh outlook to what dogs really are.

Sometimes, I see Simon and Jen Jen playing like the closest buddies and I feel envious. It's strange that I should actually be envious of such a situation but hey! I wanna have such a great relationship with dogs too!

Things have progressed since I first met Jen Jen. She recognises me and attempts to play with me when Simon is not around. She is like a baby! Somewhat brings out maternal instincts? I dunno *shrug* eeeee...bleah!

Just the other night, we brought Jen Jen out to play with some other dogs. It's interesting to watch closer and read the expressions in their faces. To understand that they each have their temperaments, they have their own personalities (or doganalities), and quirks! All this is so interesting! They are INDEED like a bunch of children, and each dog has its own upbringing in the care of their owners.

I've become quite interested in dog-personalities and behavioural psychology, thanks to Simon and Jen Jen! But what can I say, it's a faucet of life I never explored till now. I thank God for Simon and Jen Jen. It's a beautiful relationship!