To the lady who stopped around the corner, peeking over the waist-high fence with caution…

Yes, I see you.

Yes, I understand why.

Yes, one of the dogs is easily stimulated.

We both paused, made eye-contact, with that look of acknowledgement.

Though the dog I was walking with was a well-mannered gentleman who proudly sauntered by yarded canines, we understood and gave you space.

We understand dogs are NOT creatures to be completely bent and willed at our commands.

They are individual beings, with their own language, intelligences, preferences… even… as loaded as this term is… triggers.

And we respect it, because we know what it is like when:

• A “professional” takes their dog off-leash and follows you and your secured client to “prove” their results.
• The rest of the session is spent de-escalating and resetting your client.
• You are suddenly put in a position that endangers both your well-beings, and even your lives.

I will always honor our spaces among each other and wish you a good walk with yours.