Dog Park Episode III

Right around Henry's first birthday we went to the 3-acre Happy Tails Dog Park in Bradenton, FL. It was fun for several reasons. It was heavily wooded with Spanish moss hanging from the trees, there was a spooky looking corner with a separate kennel with a sign that read "Time Out," and the park dropped bails of straw for the dogs to rummage through.

But the best part was these two squirrels that lived in a tree in the middle of the park. These two evil squirrels would climb to the ground make a few chirps to get some hapless dog's attention then run up the tree out of reach. Once they were safe they would climb as low as they could and still be safely out of reach then chirp a little more egging on these poor dogs. There were at least half a dozen dogs surrounding the tree but once they got bored and wandered off the squirrels would come down the ground and start the cycle over again. It was hilarious!

It was clearly a dog friendly community and for us that means a family friendly community. We spent an hour or two on a family outing, enjoying the park, a little walk and some fresh air. It was such an enjoyable outing that as we journeyed back to the in-laws we talked seriously of setting some where in Florida for the beauty but also to be close to Heidi's parents...then they moved to Utah. As we left the park we stumbled across a free pet-magazine that had the following excerpt. You might of seen it before but its funny:

ENTRIES IN A CAT'S JOURNAL:

DAY 752 - My captors continue to taunt me with bizarre little dangling objects. They dine lavishly on fresh meat, while I am forced to eat dry cereal. The only thing that keeps me going is the hope of escape, and the mild satisfaction I get from ruining the occasional piece of furniture. Tomorrow I may eat another house plant. 

DAY 761 - Today my attempt to kill my captors by weaving around their feet while they were walking almost succeeded, must try this at the top of the stairs. In an attempt to disgust and repulse these vile oppressors, I once again induced myself to vomit on their favorite chair...must try this on their bed.

DAY 765 - Decapitated a mouse and brought them the headless body, in attempt to make them aware of what I am capable of, and to try to strike fear into their hearts. They only cooed and condescended about what a good little cat I was...Hmmm. Not working according to plan. 

DAY 768 - I am finally aware of how sadistic they are. For no good reason I was chosen for the water torture. This time, however, it included a burning foamy chemical called "shampoo." What sick minds could invent such a liquid? My only consolation is the piece of thumb still stuck between my teeth. 

DAY 771 - There was some sort of gathering of their accomplices. I was placed in solitary throughout the event. However, I could hear the noise. More importantly I overheard that my confinement was due to MY power of "allergies." Must learn what this is and how to use it to my advantage. 

DAY 774 - I am convinced the other captives are flunkies and maybe snitches. The dog is routinely released and seems more than happy to return. He is obviously a half-wit. The bird, on the other hand, has got to be an informant, and speaks with them regularly. I am certain he reports my every move. Due to his current placement in the metal room his safety is assured. But I can wait; it is only a matter of time......