A Dachshund Marched Down the Porch With Four Kittens in Tow
The old porch is a long stage, and the Dachshund is the star of the walk. A dapple Dachshund with a speckled, grey and tan coat steps along the weathered boards, head down and nose sweeping, a long body gliding behind him. Below him on a narrow plank, a line of kittens follows: a calico, a black and white, a grey tabby, and an orange one at the back, each one picking its way carefully. Rubber boots and a blue bucket sit nearby.
Dachshunds were bred to follow scent trails, so leading a procession comes naturally to them. They are bold, curious, and surprisingly strong-willed for their size. Their long backs are vulnerable, so it is best to keep them from jumping off high surfaces, and a ramp or a short step is a good idea around porches. Kittens love to follow, and they often copy what older animals do, so a calm dog can set a good example. Always keep an eye on small kittens near stairs or edges, since they can tumble easily.
The Dachshund pauses now and then to glance back, as if counting heads, and the kittens catch up with a hop. It is a very small parade, but it moves with great purpose. They are headed somewhere important, though none of them could say exactly where. Perhaps it is just the end of the porch, and that is plenty.
