What about the way dogs fight, pulling
at their leashes with teeth bared, or
what about romance between owners

of different breeds? Or drama; dog swallows
engagement ring, or humor-now he's panting
and licking his ass? What about time bombs

ticking and the last days on earth, everyone
counting on that damn dog to cut the wires
with puppy-like charm and as much ability

as the trained professional who's been blinded,
who directs every action in dog speak-
barking and snarling as he reels on the floor?