A test of patience

G’day, everyone!

Today, K told me we were going on a "special mission." In my head, that usually means the beach or the park, but when we pulled up to a place smelling of fresh bread and roast chicken, I realised we were at the most mysterious place on Earth: The Grocery Store.

The "Stay" Challenge

Now, because I’m a dog (and a very handsome one at that), I’m not allowed inside where the giant towers of cereal live. K led me to a nice shady spot near the entrance, gave me a pat, and said those five famous words: "Stay here, be a good boy."

Being a "good boy" is one of my best skills, but it’s also very busy work. I have to monitor every single person walking through those sliding glass doors. Are they K? No. Do they have a bag of treats? Also no. Do they want to tell me I’m the best-looking Cavoodle in Australia? Usually, yes.

The Cheeky Interaction

While I was waiting, a little human walked past and dropped a tiny piece of popcorn. My "adventurous" side told me to pounce, but my "loyal" side reminded me I was on duty.

The Reunion

After what felt like three years (K says it was only ten minutes, but time moves differently for dogs), the sliding doors opened and there she was! My tail started wagging so hard I thought I might take off like a helicopter.

K looked so organised. She had her groceries in one arm, and because she was wearing her Doganiser, her hands were free to unclip me and give me a massive "I missed you" scratch behind the ears. She even pulled a cheeky little biscuit out of the Treat Pouch as a reward for my world-class waiting skills.

The Reward

As we walked back to the car, the Aussie sun was starting to bite. K reached into the side of her bag and grabbed the Ink Tide Water Bottle. I got a nice cold drink right there on the pavement while she loaded the boot.

Waiting outside the shops might not be as fast-paced as chasing magpies, but as long as K comes back through those doors, I’m the happiest dog in the world. Plus, I’m fairly certain I saw a bag of "Puppy Bites" go into the trolley... but I’ll have to wait until we get home to confirm that.

Love, licks, and patient paws,

Rusty Chief Inspiration Dog