The Wagging Tail

"Don't judge a book by its cover" and "things are not always as they appear" are demonstrated in this short story. Ironic humor at its best.

I have a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in psychology. When I did my internship I was blessed with opportunities not offered to most.
I spent my internship hours with a suburban Sheriff’s Department.
I was able to participate in many aspects of law enforcement. It was thrilling and educational.
One of my favorite areas was working along side the K-9 unit. The department had six big, beautiful German Shepards fully trained for just about any situation.
I was asked if I wanted to see the training area for the dogs and I eagerly said yes.
We drove to a remote area with an eight foot wooden fence enclosure. Coiled barb wire on the top for added security.
Surveillance cameras covered the entire property, inside and outside the gate.
We entered through the steel door to a hallway with 3 doors.
One door for the small office, one for the restroom and one door to the training area.
A deputy asked if I wanted to put the suit on to get an elevated experience. Of course!
I went into the restroom and put on the suit.
I’m not sure how much the suit weighs but I assumed it outweighs me by forty pounds or so. I felt like the “Michelin Man” and walked like I a robot.
The suit including the helmet was too big for me but I figured I would need the extra protection since I am a petite woman.
Upon exiting the restroom the deputies chuckled some then asked if I was ready. One deputy said I still have time to change my mind. “I’m too excited to stop now”.
The three deputies gave me tidbits of advice like don’t run and don’t show fear. I assured them I could handle it.
The door opened to an area about the size of an infield. Four cages beyond the main area with a K-9 dog in each.
None of the dogs barked nor growled. The dogs just stood straight up. Their eyes watching my every move as if their were anticipating what I would do next.
I was asked which cage I wanted the deputies to open. A difficult choice. I looked at each animal and said the second cage . That dog was wagging his tail and looks friendly.
More laughter from the deputies as they positioned themselves behind a chain link partition.
On the count of three the gate to the second cage opened electronically.
That magnificent animal ran out of the cage, taking only four or five huge strides before he leapt in the air. His two front paws hit my chest like missiles and I was flat on my back within seconds! Standing on my chest, his mouth gripped my neck and I could feel his breathe through the suit. No barks…no growls…no warning at all!
Two deputies rushed to me to make sure I was okay. The command was given for the dog to release me. As I was being helped to my feet I looked at the well-trained member of the Sheriff’s Department.
The dog was still wagging his tail!
I have the utmost respect and admiration for law enforcement. Seeidogand feeling the K-9 dog's speed, agility and strength I am in awe. I certainly wouldn’t want to be pursued by any K-9 dog outside of training.