Walking The Dog

I meet a lot of interesting people and dogs on my daily morning walks. Of course, having Buster along opens up lots of doors. I walk in a neighborhood adjacent to ours that is 55+ only, and most of the people walking have their dog along. People know others by the names of their dogs, not the owners.
Max is a white Miniature Schnauzer who turned out to be about half the size of a giant Schnauzer. He runs ahead of his owner who is on a motorized scooter, thinking he is pulling her.

Missy is a little shih-tzu who often wears the latest style. Her owners see us, and say "look, Missy, here comes your friend Buster!" Of course Missy couldn't care less. Her mom always gives Buster a biscuit, so he's always thrilled to see her!

Buddy is a very friendly and playful Shepherd who scares Buster. His owner, John and I have been trying to get Buster to lighten up to no avail. John even shares some of his homemade jerky treats that both Buddy and John share, but it hasn't swayed Buster either. John takes Buddy for a walk regularly so Buddy can check his "mail".

Zoe is a miniature Yorkie who is very sweet, but she is pretty scared of Buster. Her owner is always thrilled to see Buster and says "Zoe, there's your friend Buster" but Zoe is shaking in her boots and showing her "submissive teeth". Buster is very kind to Zoe, but he's really hoping for a treat from her owner.

All of the people we meet are empty nesters, and now their dogs are their "kids". I know some day, when our kids are gone, my dog will be my "kid", too. Ya gotta have something to parent!