We set off merrily from our cottage across the fields all suited and booted to avoid any small hands turning blue with cold. My husband cried out from the window, “Are you sure you’ll be able to cope on your own?” I glanced at the three children scampering after the two dogs and nodded confidently. “We’ll be absolutely fine. See you later,” I cried cheerily.
At this point, I must tell you that a few weeks ago, Clover the black Labrador puppy had come into season. For three weeks, she had been confined to lead walking in remote fields away from other dogs. I could certainly not cope with more than one pregnancy in the family for the moment. Now we were finally in the clear, I was not sure who needed the walk more – her or me – but my bump and I were very keen to scamper alongside her, sniffing the fresh crisp air with utter glee.
Into the second field and we came across our neighbour’s dog, Archie. He is the same age as Clover and they are the greatest of friends. Usually, it is wonderful to meet up with him and the dogs can exercise at least three fields worth of walking, just by chasing each other round. However, it soon became apparent that their normal puppy-like frolicking was not quite as innocent as usual. On this occasion, even young Archie was finding the blossoming Clover rather attractive. “Mummy, what are the dogs doing?” asked my daughter. “Just kissing,” I said trying to grab one of the frolicking dogs. “But why is Archie kissing Clover on her bottom?” queried my confused looking son. Thankfully, Clover was as confused by Archie’s canine cuddles as the children and scampered off. However, Archie found her teasing even more enticing.
I could suddenly picture our small baby arriving in the spring to join two dogs, three children and a litter of puppies. I broke into a sprint, chasing the two dogs around the field, screaming under the watchful eye of my jaw-dropped children. Finally, I heard the sweet sound of his owner’s call. Realising my predicament she ran over to grab poor frustrated Archie. Now with Clover firmly back on the lead we continued with our walk at a faster pace, our eyes peeled for any other dogs. Inevitably the children’s questions were now coming thick and fast. Striding ahead my hearing rapidly deafened by the winter wind, I made every effort to change the subject. We arrived at Granny’s house for a much needed pit stop. She took one look at me and said, “You look like you’re been dragged through a hedge backwards,” “She has,” said my son. “She’s been running round the field after Archie who wanted to kiss and cuddle Clover.” “I’ll put the kettle on,” she said with a giggle.
