I, Chuck Billy, stand corrected. Last month I wrote a disparaging post about the Strange Suggestions I was receiving in my social media newsfeed. Now don’t get me wrong, I still stand by my statement that no one needs a Cat Shower Net Bag or dog suspenders to keep their booties on. However, recently a certain social media platform sent me a suggestion that I may consider. “Maine, reach more people who want to volunteer for Living with a Golden. It looks like your post is about volunteering. You can create a volunteer opportunity that will appear in community help, and get emails when people sign up.”

At first I dismissed their suggestion because it was in relation to Asa’s photo about helping to wipe up his muddy paw prints. Asa is perfectly capable of cleaning up his own messes, and mine too. Besides, doing chores builds a sense of responsibility. However, I received the same message again on Saturday when I shared a photo of me playing in the snow. That’s when I realized the error in my ways.

This is a brilliant recommendation! Who knew it was possible that as a Golden Retriever I could enlist volunteers? Just think of all the ways I could use them! I could have volunteers at the ready to come over and keep my favorite game of fetch going when Mom’s arm gets tired. And no more being served dinner minutes late. Now I could simply contact a volunteer who would no doubt rush over to not only feed me, but feed me early and possibly with more food than the measured amounts Mom insists on giving me. Best yet, just think of how my UFO research would expand if I had volunteers around the globe helping me keep an eye to the sky?

Now I know what you’re thinking,”What about Asa?” Yes, these volunteers are perfect for him too! I could compile a list of humans and dogs willing to listen to his jokes! Or better yet willing to walk with him, despite his insistence on singing, dancing and making friends with everyone he sees along the way. This will free up so much more time for me to advance research into my interests.

Also, Mom and Dad, who tend not to support my brilliant ideas, can’t argue with the fact that I received this suggestion from a recognized social media platform! Finally there’s a human, or probably a bot, who takes my needs serious! In addition to apologizing for my previous post to the genius who makes these suggestions in my newsfeed, here’s something else I rarely do. I’m also going to thank Asa for making this fortunate turn of events happen! After all, it was his photo that first drew the attention of the brilliant bots.

Editor’s Note: Opinions expressed in this post do not reflect those of the Living with a Golden Team. Despite what Chuck Billy says, we will NOT be seeking volunteers to help with playing fetch, mealtime, or anything else for that matter.