What Happens in the Forest Stays in the Forest

Last night Delilah, Otis, and Isabel were among the witnesses to the ways of Sadie and Lily. First, they engaged their friends with frolic and play. The usual activities are chasing, playing catch, wrestling (especially Lily), rolling (especially Sadie), and greeting. Lately, Sadie and Lily greet everyone as a duo: “Come on guys, Let’s play, Over here)” they communicate to everyone who arrives at the playground perimeter.

When balls are tossed in the vicinity of the edge of the trees, Sadie and Lily orient the play a little closer to that spot. If someone sits on the bench near the trees, Sadie and Lily run over and demand/accept affection. If someone enters the playground from the paths through the trees, Sadie and Lily move their greeting operation to the entrance. Eventually, Sadie and Lily’s tactical maneuvers to creep closer and closer to the edge of the forest end with a quick look in our direction for a reaction and then a dart into the trees.

Once they have entered the forest, we wait for what seems like hours for their return, although in fact it is just a minute or two. That minute or two is an active one. We can hear their movements through the bushes. Sadie’s collar jingles, so we have a good idea of where she is at all times. Lily is much more stealth. We can hear her run, but when she walks, we are less sure of her whereabouts. Eventually, after one, two, three or four calls, they burst out running full force. They avoid us and head directly for their friends.

Here is what we think happens under the cover of thick brush:

Sadie’s Top Five Forest Activities

1. Roll in dead and/or smelly things

2. Dig in the dirt, especially if it rained recently

3. Chase birds, squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits

4. Run on the paths and follow scent trails

5. Eat stuff

Lily’s Top Five Forest Activities

1. Run through the brush as fast as she can, leaping over huge trunks of trees and branches, just because she can

2. Greet everyone who may be walking on the paths with as much wiggle as possible

3. Sniff all the marks and scents she can find

4. Dig, dig, dig

5. Retrieve smelly things to play with on the playground

Sadie is most interested in the adventure of following the wildlife. Lily wants to let all the other dogs in on the fun. Sometimes she does, and a whole group enters with her. Bali in particular loves a good forest romp. He often leads the others into the trees. No matter who starts the forest entry, Sadie and Lily are sure to take a part in the tour.

It always ends the same – with a bath in our back yard stoop. Last night we tried new shampoo.  Thankfully, the girls smell like coconut now, and they are exhausted and napping.

MM & RY 2008