The Homework Is Gone, and the Aussie Is Trying Not to Blink
Wide pale eyes stare straight ahead from the speckled face of a blue merle Australian Shepherd, who has frozen mid-chew. Beside him lies a spiral notebook that has lost most of its pages, and torn paper is scattered across a gray rug. A sofa, a knit blanket, and a pair of shoes sit behind him. His fur is a beautiful mix of silver, black, and copper, and one ear is slightly folded. The homework will need an explanation.
Australian Shepherds are energetic, intelligent herding dogs who thrive on a job to do. Despite their name, they were developed in the United States, and they are known for their striking coats and sometimes blue eyes. An Aussie without enough exercise or mental stimulation can become destructive, so daily runs, training games, and puzzle toys are very helpful. Paper is not toxic, but it can cause stomach upset if swallowed in large amounts, so call your vet if your dog eats a lot. Keeping school bags and notebooks off the floor can help save both homework and dog.
The classic excuse might not work this time, though his serious face almost makes it believable. Somewhere, a teacher will hear the story and smile. The notebook, sadly, will be hard to recover, but he looks ready to start a new assignment. Tomorrow, he might even pick up the pencils.
