The Adventures of Periwinkle and Stinky

 

Periwinkle got up early that morning to decorate for today's Adventure before Stinky arrived.  She took time to groom her furs and think about what she had planned.  This was a new take on an Adventure they did before, but she knew it was something they should share with their pals.  Soon, the Teleportation Tunnel began to shake, and with a WOOSH, Stinky tumbled out right into her waiting paws.  They giggled, whisker-kissed, and paw-patted.  Stinky told Periwinkle he knew what they were doing.  She laughed and said she figured he would when he saw the banner she put out.

Periwinkle said, “Oh, Stinky! Can you believe it? Summer is almost over, and the little humans are heading back to school!”  Stinky was surprised when Periwinkle told him school started the previous day where she lives.  Periwinkle continued, “Stinky, back-to-school time means there are some important things that our humans—and our furry friends—need to remember. There will be more cars, school buses, bicycles, children walking, and lots of excitement around the neighborhood. So we need to be extra careful.  Stinky said, “ Exactly! Let's give everypawdy some tips.”  Both agreed that they had shared info other years but would focus on pets this year too.

🚌 Watch Out for School Buses

Right away, Stinky said, “I know this one! When a school bus stops and the red lights are flashing, cars need to STOP!

Periwinkle added, “That's right. Never try to pass a stopped school bus. Children may be getting on or off the bus, and they can sometimes move into the roadway unexpectedly. And drivers should slow down around school zones, too!" Stinky agreed! “Absolutely. Put down the phone, watch carefully, and be ready for children crossing the street.”

🚶🐕 Watch for Kids and Pets 

Both tabbies agreed that back-to-school mornings can be busy. Children may be walking to school with their dogs, cats may be outside, and pets can sometimes get frightened by all the activity. Cats should stay safely indoors! Keeping cats indoors is especially important when there is increased traffic around the neighborhood, but cats should NEVER be outside unattended.

For dogs who go on walks, make sure they are securely leashed and have identification information on their collar or tag.

🚗 Drive Extra Carefully

What should humans do when they're driving? Slow down! Especially in school zones, residential neighborhoods, and near bus stops.

Remember:

• 🚦 Obey school-zone speed limits.
• 🚌 Stop for school buses when required.
• 🚸 Watch carefully for children crossing.
• 📱 Never text while driving. 
• 🚲 Look for bicycles and scooters.
• 🐾 Watch for pets near roads and driveways.
• 🚗 Check carefully before backing out of a driveway. 

🎒 Keep School Supplies Away From Pets

Stinky asked, “What about all those shiny pencils and crayons?”

Periwinkle reminded him that they may look like toys to curious kitties, but school supplies aren't for chewing! Keep things such as pencils, erasers, glue, markers, crayons, rubber bands, and small objects where pets can't get into them.  Because if it fits in a paw, somepawdy is going to investigate it! Periwinkle said, “That's exactly why our humans need to keep an eye on us."

Don't Share the Lunchbox!

Stinky gasped and asked, “What if the kids bring home something delicious?” Periwinkle said, “They can share appropriate treats, but pets shouldn't eat human lunches without permission. Some foods that are perfectly fine for people can be dangerous for pets.” Stinky frowned and asked, “So I shouldn't steal a sandwich?” Periwinkle rolled her eyes and said, “Correct.” Stinky continued, “What about just one little bite if it’s a Churu sandwich?” Periwinkle rolled her eyes again and said “ STINKY!”

😹😹😹

🏡 Give Pets a Quiet Place

They continued adding that back-to-school time can change the household routine. Children may be leaving earlier, coming home later, and bringing friends into the house. Make sure your pets have a quiet, comfortable place where they can retreat when things get busy.

💕 Remember Your Furry Friends

They both agreed that the first days of school can be exciting for kids—but some pets may miss having their favorite humans around during the day. So, when the kids come home, they should spend some special time with their pets. Stinky exclaimed, “Exactly! A little playtime, a walk, some cuddles, or simply sitting together can help everyone get used to the new routine.”

The Tabbies put a Checklist together as a reminder...

Stinky added, “ And don't forget the most important rule!” Periwinkle responded, “ Which one?”

Stinky said, "Everybody—kids, kitties, doggies, and humans—needs to get to school and home safely!" 🐾 Periwinkle agreed and replied, "Well said, Stinky!" Stinky said,  "Thank you. Now... about that snack I was promised. Periwinkle giggled and said, "I knew that was coming."

Periwinkle's Mom set up the outside table for them to enjoy their snack.  While they ate, they looked into each other's eyes and told each other how much they appreciated their time together.

They took some time to watch a video about a cat who goes to school!

After the snack, they snuggled for a bit and spent time whisker-kissing, paw-patting and saying "I love you" to each other.  They fell asleep paw in paw. When they woke up, Stinky visited with Periwinkle's Mom and fursibs and thanked her Mom for the snack.  One more whisker kiss and "I love you" and he entered the Teleportation Tunnel for the trip home.  Periwinkle spent some time cleaning up from their snack and then took a nice, long nap!