Just a quick mention about the upcoming 2025 New York Cat Film Festival presented by the Olympia Film Society (OFS) on Friday, March 7, at the Capitol Theater in Olympia.
A portion of each ticket sale benefits our friends at Feline Friends of Olympia. General admission is $16.25. OFS is $13.25.
Doors open at 6 p.m. The show starts at 7 p.m. All prices include service fees, and the total running time of the film is 90 minutes. For more information, click here.
Funny things dogs do: Our dogs are definitely cute, can be weird, and sometimes hilarious.
Zoomies: They say this is especially applicable of the sighthound breeds, such as a Greyhound or Whippet. While they spend much of their day sleeping, they do like to show off their impressive speed daily with a few laps of a field, garden or backyard, full-pelt, ears pinned back, legs going zero to sixty, doing laps and laps until they’re done, then back to the couch. However, several of our dogs in the past have done the exact same thing and it is hilarious to watch. They don’t need anything to chase, just zooming around for the sheer love of it.
The scratchy-tickly thing: Have you noticed that there are various soft spots on your dog that when you scratch them, they kick their legs as if they are being tickled? It is known as the scratch reflex; a bit like people being tickled but not entirely sure whether they enjoy it or not.
Spin in circles before laying down: They know they want to lie down, so why do they need to pivot around on the exact spot 20 times? Strange as it may seem for pet dogs who sleep on plush beds and carpets, it’s an innate survival instinct whereby they are checking the area for danger. Who knows what snakes or poisonous thorns may be lurking in your carpet?
Stick their heads out the window while you are driving: Trish doesn’t let her dogs stick their heads out the window, but I know they would love to. They enjoy filling their nose with new smells, their ears with plenty of air and their eyes with unfamiliar sights while they’re enjoying a road trip. We think it gives them quite the adrenaline hit –- all that air, that speed. Be sure your dog is properly restrained at all times while doing this, however.
Hide their toys: Many dogs love to have a secret stash of goodies that no one else can pinch. Sometimes if you discover their lair, you will find all sorts of other items that they weren’t supposed to take; cats are also guilty. If it’s simply a hiding place, you are in luck, some dogs dig a hole in the yard and bury their prized possessions.
Roll over, always: Most dogs love having their bellies rubbed, what starts as a gentle pat turns into collapsing dog rolling over for a tummy rub. Who can resist.
That uncontainable excitement when it’s time for a walk: The moment you get the leash out, your dog can’t help barking, bursting into song, anything to let you know they are ecstatic they get to go outside on a walk. Some dogs will bring you the leash, they’ll dance, jump up, spin around in circles because they are really, really happy that this moment has arrived.
The loving gaze: Dogs love eye contact. They stare at you to let you know how they feel, and a lot of the time it’s to say that they love you, according to the UK Kennel Club. Furthermore, it’s good for you both! When a dog gazes at you, it produces a big rise in oxytocin in both humans and canines.
Licking is the highest form of affection: You may not want a slobbery kiss, and your visiting friend or relative certainly doesn’t, but most dogs see this as the highest act of endearment.
So many more but we ran out of space to continue.
I must give credit for most of this article to Martha Terry, a features editor and journalist. She specializes in the canine, equine and rural sphere where she has covered a wide range of topics.
While people might abandon you in the wind, a dog will steadfastly follow you through the fiercest storm, providing unwavering loyalty and companionship. - Author unknown
Thom Donitz and Trish Lynn are neighbors and close friends who share their love of animals and wildlife. Trish and Thom are residents of Tumwater. Contact them at pets@theJOLTnews.com.
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Scndbseman27
I had to smile when reading this because our dogs do all of these things except for hiding their toys. It warms my heart when I turn and see one of my dogs giving me a loving gaze.
Wednesday, March 5 Report this
Terrilovesanimals
I had no idea about the Film Festival Friday night. WOW. Will have to see if I can get someone to go with me. We are true cat lovers. Thank you also for the great and cute article.
Thursday, March 6 Report this