Dog On A Mission

Give a certain dog a bone and, instead of chewing it, he’ll rush straight onto the moor to bury it.  Even if it’s soooo heavy.  Even if he has to put it down every few paces to rest his poor jaw.

He’s single minded.  He’s focused.  He’ll trail for miles until he finds just the right spot.

The bone must be buried in secret.  Absolutely no onlookers allowed (human or canine).  If he thinks he’s been observed, he’ll pick up the bone again and hunt for a new hiding place.

Digging the hole is a serious business (I’ve peeped).  It takes time.  Once he’s happy with his handiwork, he’ll lay the bone carefully in its shallow space.  Cover it assiduously.

Only then will he remember his habitual smile.  Only then will he notice what’s going on about him.  Only then will he do the things dogs are meant to do when out walking the fells.

The moor is littered with Joss’ bones.  There are dozens lurking beneath the heather.  Archaeologists would have a field day….