Who’s a Party Pet?

Daddy was in his office when I returned from school. Sometimes he closes the door. That means he is busy working and should not be interrupted unless it is important. But his door was open. So I ran in to tell him about my day.

“Guess what! We are having a Halloween party at school. It is going to be a pet party. We can dress our pets in costumes. And it was my idea!” I said.

“That is terrific,” replied Daddy. “Who are you planning to bring?”

“Well, I cannot bring the pet in myself. Ms. Colman says a grown-up has to bring our pets to school and take them home after the party,” I said.

“That will not be a problem,” said Daddy. “Elizabeth, Nannie, or I can come to school.”

“Thank you,” I said. “Now all I have to do is figure out which pet should come to the party. I was thinking about Scout. She is so cute and lively. But there are lots of special rules for guide-dogs-in-training. It might be hard to follow them at a party.”

“I agree,” said Daddy.

“Then I thought of Shannon. But she is too big and wild.”

“I agree again.”

“I do not want to bring Crystal Light or Goldfishie. They would just slosh around in their bowls. It would be more fun to bring Emily Junior. But one of the boys in our class is afraid of rats,” I said.

“It is considerate of you to think of that,” said Daddy.

(I was glad Daddy noticed how thoughtful I was being.)

“Of course, our new kitten would be perfect,” I said. “But we might not have the kitten in time for the party.”

“Agreed,” said Daddy.

“So that leaves Boo-Boo,” I said.

Before I had a chance to say anything else, Daddy said, “Oh, no, Karen. You cannot bring Boo-Boo.”

“Why not? Ever since we went to see Dr. Smith, Boo-Boo has been calmer. He did not even hiss at the other animals in the waiting room.”

“If he seems calmer, it is because he is old and slowing down,” said Daddy. “The party would be too much for him.”

“But we are going to dress up our pets for Halloween. Boo-Boo would look cute in a costume,” I said.

“He would not like being dressed up. You know that,” said Daddy.

“I will make it fun for him. I promise. I will bring special treats for old cats. I will put a cozy blanket in his carrier. I will not let anyone touch him. I will watch him every second.”

“Karen, the answer is no. Absolutely not,” said Daddy. “Boo-Boo is too old to go to school with you, especially for a party.”

I had one thing to say. But I did not say it out loud. I said it to myself. Boo.