Chapter Three: Turf Wars
Big Dog marked his territory as he moved; weeing on the fire hydrant, running past the trees on the nature strip, and rolling even in the gutter. The smaller dogs followed his lead. Then Big Dog ceased his laidback stroll, raised his ears and sniffed as if he had heard something. A low growl emitted from his throat just as another pack came into view from around the corner.
The rival pack was made up of Alsatian and four mongrels. The newcomers barked at Big Dog and the beagles. As the lead dog of his group, Big Dog accepted the challenge. He stopped walking, and his stance showed restrained violence. His growl got deeper as his furs stood on end, and his ears cocked at alert for the slightest need for action.
Big Dog confronted the intruding Alsatian and forced it away from its companions. Seeing their leaders facing each other, the dogs stood waiting for the slightest cry of battle. The growls and snarls grew louder and broke the tranquility of the evening, and the Ginger-Fluff couldn't take it anymore. He emitted a frightened mew: "Do you think Big Dog will be alright?"
"Big Dog is tough," Jonathan said. "I expect that he will win!"
Finally, the Alsatian lost nerve and turned away back, running for the safety of another street. The mongrels ran off in different directions, with their tails between their legs. Big Dog and the Beagles raced along behind them in fierce pursuit.
When they were certain that the intruders were nowhere in the vicinity, the beagles halted behind Big Dog and looked for his cue. He led the march up the street, settling down in an advantageous spot where he could guard his territory.
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The Land of Meow Short Story Series
Short StoryThis 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...
