Vlad tells a funny cat story

Vlad running through the forest

My name is Vlad, and I'm an American Dirus dog with a penchant for learning.

Today, I woke up feeling extra eager to do my lessons.

As soon as my human brought out the treat bag, my tail couldn't stop wagging with excitement.

I take great pride in being accurate when I perform my tasks. I can sit, down, stand, heel, come, and watch from any position flawlessly.

My human says I'm a genius at learning, and I couldn't agree more!

But today, there was a distraction that I just couldn't resist.

A cute little orange tabby cat named Hobbes that lives with us was meowing and beckoning me to come play.

My eyes darted back and forth between the cat and my human, torn between my lessons and the allure of the feline friend.

With a gentle reminder, my human asked me to focus on my training.

I tried with all my might to tear my gaze away from the playful cat.

My human laughed at me trying to watch the cat while also keeping my attention on the lessons.

But I knew my human was proud of me when I managed to do both, albeit with a little struggle.

After the lessons, we headed out for a walk.

Each time my human called my name, I came running back without hesitation, eager to stay close and not go beyond her sight.

My human's smile beamed with delight as she praised me for my attentiveness.

As we strolled along the familiar path, I couldn't help but feel content.

The sights, smells, and sounds of the outside world were invigorating. But even amidst the excitement, I knew my place was right beside my human.

When it was time to head back home, she asked me to return to my pen.

Without hesitation, I trotted back in, feeling accomplished and happy.

As I settled in for the night, I thought about how much I loved learning and being a good companion.

Today was a great day filled with learning, distractions, and moments of pride.

I may have been tempted by Hobbes's playful antics, but I realized that my true joy comes from making my human happy and performing my lessons with accuracy and enthusiasm.

I can't wait for tomorrow's adventures and learning sessions.

I'll continue to be the best American Dirus dog I can be, bringing smiles and joy to my human's face, and maybe, just maybe, I'll resist the allure of that cheeky cat a little better next time.

PS: Today before NOON EASTERN is your LAST chance to sign up for the “Winged Wolf Clan” Zoom call where you can meet Jennifer LIVE at 5pm EST TODAY!

I will send out a special “Winged Wolf Clan” email today at noon Eastern with call instructions for only those who sign up.

If you register after that time, you’ll be out of luck.

Jennifer Stoeckl is the co-founder of the Dire Wolf Project, founder of the DireWolf Guardians American Dirus Dog Training Program, and owner/operator of DireWolf Dogs of Vallecito. She lives in the beautiful inland northwest among the Ponderosa pine forests with her pack of American Dirus dogs.