There is music in my home.
There is praise music, old cowboy songs, classic orchestras, the boss singing.
And we are coming up on the season of music – carols, hymns, celebrations of silver bells and heavenly light, into long dark nights.
Well I think my own voice is worth a listen too, and like any relentless cowdog, I make it near impossible to ignore. 
I have a vast repertoire of songs and sounds. There are coyote yip-yaps, used mainly when I hear something outside or mom isn’t paying enough attention. My best wake-up-from-sound-sleep, high-alert, PAY ATTENTION NOW voice. From startling crescendos to smooth legato, I sing the songs of my people. 
I have elegant barks: sharp, all business, Heeler -in -charge calls, used for visitors, delivery drivers, even when there is no one but I need to let everyone know I am still on watch. 
I have a nice deep GRRRR; not a growl, and this is usually reserved for the boss, when I need a playmate or someone to throw a ball. 
I often converse with a good howl, and mom engages in my language. I use this to notify it’s treat-time, to rush my doorman to let me out, my chef to get dinner on, my driver to let me into my truck. I use it for playing, bossing, encouraging, rebuking.
Sometimes I have to sass, like when I’m scolded for eating the catfood. Or to get attention away from a phone call and back on me.
In full disclosure, I have been known to growl, even lunge and snap, but this show is reserved for some other dogs, and of course has limited who I get for playmates.
I’m told I am sometimes a real butt-head. Can you believe that?
When I’m in the truck, I do bark hysterically when I spot another canine, minding their own business; I am incensed that they don’t even know I’m putting them in their place.
I admit, though, that a high point of visits to the boys’ house, is leaving as Chili races the fenceline barking at ME. I yip-yap, bark and growl without restraint, for a few seconds til we turn the corner. Now that is invigorating!
And if the boss hollers at me for this predictable racket, why I just sass right back with a calming grrr, followed by one long howl – she’ll quiet right down.
I tell you, my howl is a lyrical anthem. I think it must be a super-power.
I even sing in my sleep.
I fill the air with melody, and like the song says, I sing because I’m happy!
Who can help but sing in joy?
For the sun, 
water, 
playmates, 
treats, 
horses, 
a couch
and even cats. 
I’m pretty sure no one can carry a happy howling hymn like me,
but find your voice.
Make a joyful noise!
Remember, RESCUE is the best breed!
