This is a post about Scooby, a shuffle, and how they go together.
Who is Scooby?
Scooby is a 4-year-old shelter rescue dog. I went online to search Animal Humane specifically wanting a dog or bonded pair that might be a bit harder than average to place in a forever home. I fell in love with Scooby from the first glance at his photo. It was the eyes! I really do believe that we connected at a soul-level. He was described as being highly anxious, not adapting well to shelter life, but not aggressive. We went to see him and he was indeed anxious. He was separated from the rest of the dogs in a quiet space in a totally different, but adjacent building. He was very hesitant to engage, but seemed pretty curious. Eventually he took some meat and cheese bits from my hands, and also showed a lot of interest in whipped cream (who wouldn’t?) We took him home on a “trial adoption” and of course there was no way I would have taken him back. Over the past 2 years I’ve been able to wean him off of his anxiety medications, but he continues to be anxious and quirky at times.
What is a Shuffle?
A shuffle is a rhythm used in all kinds of music including blues, jazz, and rock. A shuffle has a distinctive swing or syncopated rhythym giving it an offbeat feel with a triplet subdivision where the first note receives more emphasis. I don’t pretend to fully understand all of the possible rhythmic patterns, nor do I think I notated it perfectly; however, I do believe that the shuffle rhythm captures Scooby’s very unique personality (although not his gait.) The shuffle seems to me to be slightly unexpected, out of kilter, springy, and playful.
How can Scooby and a Shuffle go together?
Need I say more? Scooby is like no other dog I have ever had before. All of my fur babies have had unique qualities. They have all made me laugh. But Scooby……….very unpredictable usually in a delightful way. He goes from a cuddle bug to a racing demon within seconds. He cowers at environmental sounds, dustballs, and shadows but will chase a deer, rabbit, or lizard with ferocity. He “guards” our property from birds, squirrels, and no-see-ums. He has trouble just walking and starts every adventure (even just down the hall) as if being shot out of a canon. Therefore, he wipes out frequently when he needs to stop or turn a corner and crashes into walls and furniture like a demolition derby. He has a tremendous vertical leap and his long-jump is pretty good too. He can stand up and steal food from the counter. He also gives great kisses.
As I was writing this piece I created some lyrics to help guide me.
Scooby, Scooby! Now what are you doing? Scooby, Scooby! Please stop that Scooby. No, No, Stop that Scooby. Please lay down now. Scooby, Scooby!
Does that give you a feel for my life with Scooby?