Dog-hug

Dear Lucy,

It's been a while since I had a cuddle with my mum's adorable Bichon Frise/Spaniel cross, aka Maisie. I need a dog-hug.

I need a dog-hug,

A no-holds-barred, hot, smelly-breathed dog-hug.

With play-teeth, wet nose and soft scratchy feet,

With furry tummy rubs and hand-in-mouth fights.

With whacking tails and edible velvet ears,

Racing heartbeats, legs akimbo, legs x 4; utter surrender.

I need a dog-hug because I feel it,

right down to my human toes. 

It heals, it soothes,

It sends newspapers and glasses flying from the coffee table.

Then I'll basque in the glow as you race in frantic circles,

before teasing me with your favourite ball,

finally settling in your bed for some alone-time.

Even the most excited dog needs alone-time. 

Until the next time … that I need a dog-hug.