Dave's Sketch Journal

I never imagined that there would be so many pets in China. I don't know why. I guess I hadn't seen many on past trips in the tourist sections. Now that I'm living here, it's a different ball game.

Besides seeing dogs as pets, I've seen guinea pigs, rabbits, fish, chipmunks, squirrels, and even monkeys. I've only seen stray cats, none as pets yet. In fact, I heard one out in the courtyard this morning, moaning in the rain.

One of our friends here owns a miniature shar pei. She's cute and smart, if a bit excitable. Maya lives on the sixth floor of an apartment complex with her owners. She uses paper out on the balcony as her potty area. I gotta admit, she is adorable.

My first reaction to visiting anyone with a pet, especially a dog, is one of apprehension. That's because often the pets are simply uncontrollable. They jump all over me. Lick my hands and pants. Wet on the floor. I step it it. They climb all over me when I sit down. They leave hair on my black pants.

Usually, when it's time to go, I smell just like the dog.

Yet when I'm a guest in their home, I try not to be overly concerned. I mean, after all, if I smell like their dog maybe they'll like me and reward me with a biscuit.

...dave
It's easier to put on slippers than to carpet the whole world. - Al Franken

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