“What’s that wigglin’ under the cover?  A monster!  Grab it quick, and shake it to death!”

The game is always the same and Buddy never tires of it.  He will even request it by pawing at the blanket.  In doggy language, that means “Stick your hand under the cover, dad so I can attack it.  I have to protect you from yourself.”

Dad always obliges, and they both act appropriately scared.  The human hand sneaks under the blanket and wiggles ever so slightly.  The fight begins.  Buddy to the rescue, protection on full alert!  “Grrr…”

Buddy slings and shakes the hidden monster, being careful not to bite too hard, so the game continues.  His effort to control his eagerness for the game is so evident, and touching.  He doesn’t want to really kill the monster; somehow he knows the monster must live, to fight again.  So, he play growls, sound as ferocious as he dares.

The monster understands, too.  The play dragon is careful not to move too much, doing his part to keep the game alive.  Soon, they are both exhausted from all this understanding of unspoken rules of engagement.  Generals across the world are sick with envy of such fighting prowess. 

Buddy looks up at dad, and pauses.  They both take deep breaths and call it a truce.  The game switches to hide and seek. 

More about that tomorrow, as Buddy’s playtime continues.  It’s a dog’s life.

-Buddy’s Mom