From where I hail you hear various anecdotes about “An Englishman and his Dog”. It presents a feeling of pride about the loyalty and trust between Master and Hound. No matter what happens it will always be by your side and reciprocates without thought. A resolute bond.
Alas, for many a hound listening to a bedtime story in sunny Blighty it is a fairytale from a bygone age.
Here in Buenos Aires people have a similar love for their Dogs. The difference is that the Mutts around here still live the fairytale.
The laws and rules for dogs and pets are no different here from anywhere else. The difference is commom sense plus a whole pile of affection.
Syri taking a carriage ride through the Palermo Parks
There is many a place in this city that if I pitch up with a smile the people are looking around my feet saying “Where is Syri?”. Gentlemen’s outfitters, Cafes, Barbers and the ironmonger’s. She genuinely enhances their day. We go the the palermo parks, she swims in the lakes, kids are everywhere. They all love it. It is a highlight of our lives how much joy our Mutt brings to everyone.
Of course first time you enter a place you must ask “May I bring my Dog in too?” Invariably the answer is yes, sometimes sorry no, as they drop to their knees and share kisses with her. This privilege is not only bestowed on our Syri but any old dog.
Sunny Old England, wonderful as it is, has enhanced a Rules and Obedience culture that is almost second nature these days with regard to pets, norms and behaviour. I imagine it is very much the same elsewhere. Things are controlled. Rules are adhered to without reference to individual circumstance. Incompliance is punished.
Here very good people do not give a monkey’s about that. Things are judged as they are and assessed as they are seen. A little self determination in your everyday life. If the dog is a wailing banshee, maybe best to send it home. If it is friendly offer it warmth.
The Portenos of Buenos Aires work much the same way with the people they meet. First impressions count. Second impressions more so.
Go back and see them the next day, sniff around their door. Before you know it you will have a bowl of water, a kiss and even a cuddle.
It works for Syri and it works for us. Good people that determine what they do.
A dog’s life in BA ain’t so bad!
Besos
David x
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