No snacks today—because Mr. Rio the Bernese Mountain Dog has been running a full-time con job in this house.
A month ago he slipped getting down from his favorite throne (the couch) and tweaked a paw. We did the whole thing: vet visit, treatment, and strict instructions—rest, monitoring, and a few gentle exercises.
After that, I started my daily “inspection.” Short walk, quick look at the paw, and a treat as a reward—just to make sure everything was healing the way it should.
Well… Rio took notes.
Now he’s invented a new hobby: kitchen limping.
The second I walk toward the kitchen, he magically remembers he’s “injured.” Limp appears out of nowhere like a light switch. I say, “Nice try, Rio—no treats today,” and he locks eyes with me like I’ve committed betrayal on a historic level… then turns the limp up to 110% in full Oscar-worthy “tragic dog” performance.
And just when I thought I couldn’t be outplayed any harder…
Yesterday he switched paws.
I really believed I’d only get manipulated by humans. Turns out I live with a furry little actor.