The Dalmatian Only Wanted a Better View of the Street
Somewhere between the window and the couch, a Dalmatian's plan fell apart. Slats of white blinds now loop around the dog's chest and shoulders like a stiff, crooked scarf, and a few have snapped loose to hang overhead. Two wide eyes stare straight ahead, ears flopped at different angles, black spots bright against all that white plastic. A coffee mug and a pile of blankets sit nearby, unbothered.
Dalmatians are lively, sensitive, and full of stamina, bred long ago to trot alongside carriages. A dog like that is always looking for a job, and the street outside the window often counts as one. Barking at passersby and leaping up to watch the world is common in high-energy breeds that haven't had enough exercise. A long daily walk and some training games can take the edge off. It also helps to keep blind cords tied up and out of reach, because loose cords and bent slats can tangle a dog or hurt a curious nose. If your pet gets caught up, stay calm and untangle slowly.
Right now, the Dalmatian is holding very still, as though the blinds might forget anyone is inside them. It is a fine strategy for a moment or two. After that, there is only the long, dignified wait for someone with free hands. A rainy-day game of fetch and a good long walk tomorrow might help burn off that watch-the-street energy.
