Inventing a Dog

by Maleah Vereen

to Luna, my crazy dog

Inventing a puppy is not easy

You should build your life around it

You should make vet appointments

Dog proof your house and give her all of your heart 

Refill her water bowl at least 3 times a day

Pick up the treats she tossed aside at the smell of human food

Watch her brown eyes as she looks out the window

Stop her from eating worms on your Sunday walks

Open the door when she rings the bell to go outside

Play fetch with her in the rain

Scrub the muddy tracks she leaves going up the steps

Wash her when she smells like rusty dirt

Stay on her schedule during sleepy weekends

Wake up at 3 am to let her out

Watch her race in circles around the pool

When she naps on the porch wipe away her drool

Refuse her smelly kisses

Take her to the timbered state park

Feel the splintering golden leaves bend at your step

Breath in stirred pollen as you wipe off specs of her walnut fur

All you need is her

Her thumping heart after playtime 

Shredding countless cotton toys to wisps

The room engulfed in a snow like wool

Prepare yourself to leave her one day

Nonetheless in good hands

But not your warm and caring hands

Not your specific touch 

She won’t place any blame

Dogs do not understand the human concept of love

Yet somehow you can feel your bond of love

You will hold her leash and feel her pull once more