Yerevan Dogs (On Disenfranchisement)

While living in Armenia I used to feed the stray dogs that would roam around my neighborhood. My giving of food, particularly during the winter, created a bond with certain dogs, many of whom would sleep on my porch over night, and one, whom I named Sevoog, which would answer my particular whistle if within earshot.

He was a primarily black in coloring, with white fur on his chest, paws and tail. When he saw me he would jump excitedly, appreciating every minute of the attention that he was given. A lot of Armenians frowned at my petting a stray, considering the animal dirty and unworthy.

To me the strays of Yerevan were amazing, smart enough to survive city life and harsh winters, responding with positive reactions to acts of kindness,

During one winter I found myself crossing across the opera house square after leaving a Persian dance club. Snow had begun to fall, making the ground dark and white at the same time. I whistled my unique call, testing  to see if Sevoog would come, almost certain there he would not. 

Within seconds the bushes began to rustle and shake, and almost immediately thereafter my trench coat was lightly covered in his excited paw prints. I pet him on the head for a few seconds, calming him down. 

Then he was gone.

Running back into the bush as quickly as he came. Returning a moment later with six other dogs, all of whom followed me home. I do not know for certain, but I believe that Sevoog had somehow communicated my generosity to the others. 

They gathered outside my door and across the street, setting up camp until the following day. Throughout the night I heard them bark at passersby, directing them clear of my door and keeping me safe for the night. By morning they were all gone, save for Sevoog, who walked me to my transport before heading on his way. 

I saw Sevoog frequently the during the following year until I no longer did. At some point he almost certainly became a victim of a local policy that encourages individuals to shoot innocent animals, then cut of their tails in order to collect a cash reward.

I miss my friend.

I have witnessed first hand the desire within these animals to be loved, to be cared for, and to offer affection freely. Many are discarded like trash and left to fend for themselves. As a result they group up in pacts, fight with over scraps, and mate when possible. They are a source of companionship lacking in companions.

And like any other social animal when denied their place in the world, they turn wild; and like any wild creature out of place, they are condemned for doing so.