“Hey Pops, I ditched my dreams for the day and headed to Pawsburg with pals Lilly & Bake. Squashed a noisy vacuum terrorizing the town, celebrated victory at Bone Appetit. Ordinary day, extraordinary tales, huh? Catch you at sunrise. – Willie aka Wonkavator”

Listen to the story here

Before dawn had even had the chance to stretch its golden fingers over our little backyard, I, Willie Wonka, roused from my modest doggy bed, no more than a hint of sleep left in my fawn wrinkles. The day laid open before me, filled with perilous adventures and savory treats, unblemished vanilla ice-cream, and the occasional cheeseburger – I could not resist a good cheeseburger.

Taking my trusted sidekick – my squeaky ball – I was all set. I gave the sleeping city one last disdainful snort, its clamor a nuisance to my ears, and bounded off to Pawsburg, the whimsical Hamlet only us dogs knew of.

A short scamper away from the city, sitting pretty as a picture, was Western Fawn Pug Palace, home to my favorite pug, Lilly. With a cheery welcome and her contagious enthusiasm, she joined my noble quest. Next stop was North Chihuahua Castle, but today, we decided to pass, not a big fan of them I confess.

Our hunger soon beckoned us toward the Bark Shak. A delightful selection of snacks awaited us, and who could forget about the famous juicy cheeseburgers. A quick stop at Doggy Depot followed, paws itching to engage in a friendly brawl with my mate, Bake, the English Bulldog.

Now came time for our daring adventure. Whispers among our fellow dogs had tones of terror about a monstrous vacuum located in Lower Golden Gate Gardens. Known for its deafening noise, this diabolical contraption was said to have the capacity to clean up Pawsburg itself! Lilly quivered at the thought while Bake growled, protective as always.

We dogs might get along, but vacuums – ‘Enemy No:1’. I led the team, my squeaky ball in my mouth, my steps resolute. We snuck our way into the gardens, our ears perked for any dreadful noise.

The beast of a vacuum loomed ahead – an awful sight for doggie eyes. Gathering my wits and ignoring the frantic beating of my heart, my frown deepened – my playfully energetic disposition temporarily caged. Tightening my grip on the squeaky ball, I charged forward, charging into the monster. One mighty BARK! and the squeaky ball rammed into the vacuum. Shutting off instantly, it was nothing more than an oversized paperweight.

Clinking of pet tags and jubilant barks filled Pawsburg as we returned victorious from our mission. Celebrations were in order. We all headed towards The Bone Appetit, indulging in treats sans onions, of course, and recounted the story of bravery and valor carried out “just another day” in our canine lives.

As dusk painted the sky a fine shade of pink, I bid farewell to my fellow heroes. With my squeaky ball – now a symbol of victory – I made my way back home. As ordinary days come calling, there will be backyard games and toy monkeys to look forward to. Yet, Pawsburg speaks a tale of a hero who once saved the town from a dreadful foe, a tale bound to live on whenever dogs gather to recount stories of brave exploits – That’s a tale to tell! After all, that’s the life we lead, we, the dogs of Pawsburg.

The End.