Who you?

I took Max out to his field today, following his two mates. So far so same old thing.

We got through the gate last, the other two had their head collars off, and I tried to lead Max forward, but he wouldn't go. I looked at him questioningly and noted the startled expression on his face.

"Don't know him!" he said, staring at his young field mate.

Said young field mate, who loves Max with a big love, had been clipped at the weekend, and as such, was wearing a new tartan rug with hood to keep him comfy warm..

"Don't be silly Max," I coaxed, as field mate came eagerly forward to greet his best pal.

Max took a hesitant step backwards, stopping when his friend gave him a little call.

"I don't talk to strangers," Max sniffed, and tucked his head behind my shoulder.

I led him to the water trough next to the field mate he did recognise, and then baldy with the new rug pushed in to demand acknowledgement.

Tentatively Max met his nose and sniffed.

"Oh! It's you! Why dincha say so? What this gear?" he asked, pulling at the rug with his teeth. "You look like a girl!"

Happy again, they trotted off together, leaving us standing at the gate laughing at Max and his confusion over a tartan hooded rug and a new haircut.