A dog in the snow
My name is Albi. They named me like that apparently because I’m so white it reminds them of an albino, something which I find unfair to both albinos and me because neither of us can help that we are so pale-coloured.
I am one year old. That’s what my humans tell others whenever they are asked how old I am. I don’t understand why it matters at all, though. Does the number justify something? Do they understand something from a simple digit? I have yet to comprehend the concept of age.
I get excited about things. Anything really. But that doesn’t land well with humans. They seem to enjoy yelling a lot of ‘don’ts’. But whenever they want me to actually do something their voice changes to a screeching sound that is not very pleasant despite what they think of it.
I love the outdoors. It’s boring inside. But sometimes my humans don’t have the energy for long explorations like the ones I like and we only walk around for a few minutes. However, whenever it’s time to return, they show me their watch – as if I can tell time – and insist that it’s been half an hour already and that we’ve already been out four times that day. So? At least I’m helping them get some exercise instead of lying on the couch or in bed or being seated in a chair all day. They should be grateful for our walks.
Today was snow day. We came to the mountains to play with the snow. I consented to come along too. Nobody asked if my feet were cold. Sure, they wear mittens and gloves to throw around this ice-cold white stuff that’s all over the place. But they haven’t even considered asking if my paws were frozen. Good thing that we rested in a hut for an hour and I could thaw them in front of the fireplace.
I posed for a few photos for passers-by in the meantime. I like how they get all excited with me. It feels nice to make people happy simply by existing – by being you. And I like being me.
All in all, it was a fun and full day.
I was told that once we returned home, we wouldn’t go out again until the next morning. It sounded ominous, like a warning. But I understand – humans don’t have the stamina we do. I’ll concede this time. They need their rest. They’ll be sitting on a chair all day tomorrow in front of a screen. It seems like hard work judging by all the coffee they consume and the constant sighing. Good thing I offer them frequent breaks to get outside. They could be happier about it, though.
Now that I think about it, I’m off for a nap too.