Chapter Two: "Big Dog and the Beagles".
The smell of freshly mown grass tickled his nose on the hot afternoon, while the swish of the occasional passing car made the suburban street appear sleepy. Some moths were chasing around a light pole, occasionally diving toward the cats and making them blink.
Jonathon and Ginger-fluff drank deep gulps of water from the dish mother had put out on the verandah. Then they lay on the neighbour's lawn panting.
Their relaxation was broken by the arrival of Big Dog and a handful of his friends.
At first glance, big Dog could be recognized as a Doberman with his fur – a mixture of black and tan colours coating muscles that defined him magnificently. The other dogs in the group were also black and tan. Several of them were beagles and also looked agile and strong, but they lacked the size the Doberman had. Big Dog enjoyed an advantage that was indescribable but obvious, making him the canine king of the street.
Jonathon and Ginger knew and trusted Big Dog, but they were not sure they would be safe around the newcomers. They quickly jumped onto the planter and to the safety of Jonathon'swindow sill. The Doberman gave the cats a secret bank and led the group of dogs further down the street.
Jonathon was amused. "I don't think Big Dog wants the other dogs to know he hangs around with cats!"
"They wouldn't understand," Ginger-Fluff hissed. His fur was standing on end as his natural aversion to canines asserted itself.
"Peer pressure for animals," Jonathon giggled, using a term he had heard at school.
Below them, the dog pack moved slowly, the leisurely pace daring any intruder to make an attempt to challenge them. Jonathon thought they were a bit like big kids trying to look cool. And Big Dog was the undisputed boss of the group.
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The Land of Meow Short Story Series
NouvellesThis is a collection of short stories comprising a human/animal fantasy series about the secret dreamworld of pets. The main character is eight years of age and the stories are designed to amuse children, parents who read to children, and adults who...
