Day 116

9/7/22

What is it about dogs and squirrels? I know all about predator/prey, but the squirrels around our neighborhood have taken it to a new level!

On their walks, Lilly and Ranger don't even try anymore, so their furry-tailed friends lose interest as they walk by. A quick glance, as they gather those acorns, and they seem to know the golden pair doesn't stand a chance!

Now Gus, on the other hand, creates quite a stir as we meander along the streets and riverbanks! The squirrels, and there are SO MANY, take a look at Gus and seem to say, "Game's on, Goldie!"

Gus still has no sight in his right eye, so he tends to miss some of the action. The other team doesn't know about the lack of sight, so they taunt, dance, hop and scurry as we walk along. If he doesn't react, the squirrels have taken to calling out in their squeaky little voices. That gets his attention!

Gus will charge after them and always miss by a number of feet as they scramble up the nearest tree. However, the chase is not over yet. As my boy approaches with no squirrel in sight, he realizes they have just gone around the back of the tree! A lurch from Gus, "squirrel chatter," a small effort on the part of the hunted to get J-u-s-t out of reach and SCORE! Squirrel 1, Gus 0!

I have watched this game for weeks and months. I truly believe the squirrels are having as much fun as Gus when they lure him on.

Sweet Oreo, our border collie, caught a squirrel in our backyard a few years ago. I heard the barking and squirrel screams, so I ran out into the scene of the accident pronto! There, I saw my pup circling the little fellow who was on his back, pivoting to keep his teeth pointed in her direction. Of course, I called Oreo and we watched her opponent from a distance. It finally stood up, shook itself and climbed a tree. Whew! I was glad it ended in a tie!

Now, I head back to do a bit more watering in the yard. The goldens are napping, the squirrels are happy and I simply smile. Peace reigns supreme, but then it usually does when you have a golden or two or three...