When it comes to our social calendars, Asa and I are completely in sync. However when it comes to our social compass, we are polar opposites! For me, Mom and Dad will always be true north, and therefore will receive my undivided attention. Asa, on the other paw, is all over the map.
This difference in perspective is most obvious when enjoying the many dog festivals and events that spring has to offer. Whereas I am the older and more responsible member of our family, I understand it is my job to keep a close watch on Mom and Dad so that they don’t wander off. In fact, if an event is particularly crowded I will insist that Mom and Dad remain close to each other, by forcing whoever is tethered to me to remain by the side of the other person. This may mean quickening our pace, agile maneuvering through crowds, and sometimes an all out tantrum. I am not proud of the latter, but you’ve got to do what you’ve got to do to keep the pack together.
In contrast, Asa could care less about Mom and Dad’s wellbeing when in these situations! He will take that opportunity to focus on all the activity going on around him, while only having a vague sense of their whereabouts. He does this by leaning into Mom or Dad, or by simply having his paw on their foot. Case in point, at a recent event while remaining in a down/stay, Asa somehow managed to slowly move his entire body in a circle around Mom’s feet, while he watched all the excitement in every direction! Another example is when walking he will bounce like a pingpong ball off their leg while looking in the opposite direction of where they are heading. And in case you’re wondering, yes Asa has crashed into things while not paying attention! How embarrassing!
Luckily though for Mom and Dad they have me to keep everyone pointed in the right direction! However, I may need to get some advice from Mom and Dad’s trainer on how to recalibrate Asa’s social compass.
