One of the reasons dog people love their furkids is because dogs are honest. They are so basic with their emotions you know where you stand with them.

Jake takes his job seriously as watchdog. Each Tuesday morning he is incensed when the trash and recycling are picked up. That is his turf. His stuff. And he wants to make sure we know he is angry.

Of course I want Jake to be on guard. He is judicious in his barking. He ignores birds, blowing leaves. But humans could be a threat, so he lets us know.

Max has been with us for two months. A few weeks ago we started “floor time” to help bonding with Max. My husband, Jake, Windy, Max and I get on the carpeted bedroom floor with some toys and play. We will sit or lie down with the furkids, and they love it.

A few nights ago I was grading papers, and my husband started floor time. I yelled I would be there as soon as I finished the paper I was working on. After a minute, Jake, Windy and Max marched into the living room as sat at my feet. Jake kept looking toward the bedroom. Windy started a barking nag.

I took the hint. Play is important. My dogs do know how to live.

Windy and Max enjoy the afternoon winter sun.