Gone to the dogs

Years ago, in 2011 to be precise, Coeur d’Alene was honorarily dubbed DogTown, USA by Dog Fancy Magazine. If you wonder why, think about all the dogs that freely jaunt right into stores, the plethora of doggie bowls and treats left by considerate store and restaurant owners, and many furry friends you make on every walk.

This is an unquestionably a good thing. But have we possibly dog-gone a little too far?

Let me explain. I was on a walk a few days ago when I met another pooch of the neighborhood. As nearly always, I was shaping up to meet a new friend, but I hesitated a moment. Because that’s what you do. Unless a dog has already climbed halfway up your person — when all bets are off — you should politely ask the person at the other end of the leash for permission to the pet their dog.

What if someone’s still learning to control aggressive behavior? What if someone is perilously shy and showing signs you or I wouldn’t recognize? What if someone’s a service dog in training? What if the owner is a misanthrope (fair enough, fellow introvert).

Asking is just the right thing to do.

Well, I hesitated and asked permission with my hand poised near doggo’s head and succeeded in thoroughly confusing my nice neighbor.

“Err, what?”

“Is it all right?” I repeated.

“What?” He repeated too.

“To pet your dog?”

“Oh, uh, sure. Yes, it’s all right.” He looked quite confused.

We had already stopped on the sidewalk, the stage was set and the scene familiar. I think we both knew what was about to go down (a gentle pat), yet I swear this neighbor was taken aback by the exchange. It was as if he’d never been asked before, as if everyone just assumes they can pet his (admittedly very friendly) dog.

Look folks, I know most dogs don’t appreciate a delay in greeting, but it is the right thing to do. In fact, you’re probably supposed to delay even when their panting face is three inches from your own, but at least then you can be forgiven for getting distracted. At least check-in a little. Make eye contact, get a smile or some kind of body language read first.

But ideally, throw out a quick, “Can I pet your dog?” We make kids ask permission. Surely we adults can manage the habit?

This town may have gone to the dogs (and kitties, as Grey Kitty’s enduring neighborhood popularity assures me), but let’s not abandon a little consideration. If a Dalmatian can learn to sit and wait, I think we can learn to stop and ask.