My job description
I’ve been discussing my job description with Mum. The problem seems to be that a lot of of the requirements are not written down. I’m supposed to understand the general role of chief pet, actually, sole pet. Given Mum has concluded, probably fairly, that I am both autistic and ADHD in dog terms, I find understanding the unwritten rules very difficult indeed. What I need in life is very clear boundaries and instructions. If I have those then life is rather more straightforward. I still may not cooperate, but at least I understand what Mum wants.
What, for example, do I do when a human is crying? I was thinking head butt them and make them laugh, but it doesn’t seem to be working. Mum says what she really wants to do is to be able to go for long walks with me where we can talk as we walk. Why? Once I’ve sniffed for the first few hundred metres I get bored. In that situation apparently repeatedly head butting the backs of Mum’s shins is not acceptable.
Today’s Plan
Today for example, Mum has errands to run. Do I want to a) go in the car with Mum so we can be together or b) stay at home in comfort where I can please myself what I do. In this situation I’ve now learnt that b was the wrong answer. I am supposed to keep Mum company even if she’s doing something I don’t want to do. After that explanation I had to ask ‘why?’ That’s when I was told it was in the job description. At that point, I went back to reread the paperwork and nowhere could I find putting my own preferences aside when faced with such a choice.
Circus clown
Mum and I did find we could make Dad laugh with some of my fun tricks. Clearly, I’m getting playing the clown down to a fine art. Dad thinks I give great cuddles too. Mum has asked if there is any chance we could sit snuggled up in the big chair while she reads. What am I supposed to do? I get bored. Seeing how far I can flip Mum’s book across the room with my nose is apparently not part of the deal.
Settling into my new role could take a while.
Hugs, licks and head butts
Pebbles
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