The Nose Of A Dog - Gail Onion

[Larry Robinson]

The Nose Of A Dog


When walking a dog go where the dog goes.
Led by the nose the dog sniffs a way and 
The familiar is unfamiliar again.
Since yesterday the dog’s world has changed.
Dog eyes in a nose dog story in a nose 
Dog excited by scents of news in a hedge
Dog in a long conversation with the roots
Of an Oak. 
Dog suddenly pawing and whining
In ecstasy at a wall.
Watch and listen oh dog walker 
At the end of the leash is a genius
A mystic an explorer of deep mysteries
A messenger of the gods.
Not just looking for a spot to do their doggie
Business but an intermediary of the thin places
A witness a reporter on the scene a scout for
Possible trouble. 
So do not be so hasty to drag your dog
>From their missions, their meetings with the beyond human.
Put away your phone and pay attention
To your dog’s conversations.
Discuss follow touch explore with
The nose of the dog
In discovery in wonder
We humans can only dream about
But which a dog knows.
A more satisfying walk together ensues 
Along the streets and trails.
When you return home tired yet relaxed
Your dog as full of tales as a bee
With a pouch of pollen 
Reach down to the wise furry Sage
At your feet and stroke lovingly the glowing pelt
As the dog eyes and nose gaze up into your eyes, your
Faithful companion triumphant in its task to safe guard
You and the world.

	- Gail Onion