The dogs are doing what they can
to earn a rosette. They’re standing straight,
they’re lifting paws, they’re barking
when asked, they’re growing perfect fur.
On the outside of the square of metal fencing
set up for the dogs to parade themselves
is a mountain of an inflatable slide,
a burger van, a pizza van, an ice cream van,
a play park stuffed with children, and stalls
selling pet insurance, doggie treats in the
shape of doggie faces, pet portraits,
and fluorescent leads. On the inside
there are adverts facing the dogs
for estate agents, nearby bakeries, and
a local pet cremation centre
to remind them they are alive.

© Carl Burkitt 2022