The Carrot Ranch Challenge:
In 99 words (no more, no less), write a story inspired by “Desert Dog”.
Click here to hear the author read his words:
Dog Days
The desert stretches for about a thousand miles in every direction.
It seems we’ve been walking forever.
McLeish dropped a few days ago, Strachan only yesterday.
I didn’t even think about burying them, the wind will, very soon.
So there’s just Dog and me left now.
He’s a German Shepherd/Husky cross, been with me seven years, saved my life twice.
He’s my only friend in the world, and we share everything fifty-fifty.
We have two days water left.
I think about that.
It could so easily be four.
Here, boy, I say.
And pull my knife from its sheath.
Sound Bite Fiction 
That’s a gritty one, and I’m not talking about the flying sand.
LikeLike
Right in the feels! This is heartbreaking.
LikeLike
If it hurt, then I’m happy!
Not that I’m a sadist, you understand, but it’s not easy to trigger emotion in 99 words.
LikeLiked by 1 person
I am the same way!
LikeLike
An accurate portrayal of hard decisions driven by survival. I wonder what actually happens next. A swift commitment to doing the deed? A pause? No time to reflect in the middle of a vast desert. Well-written!
LikeLike
Sometimes, Charli, needs must, hmm?
And sorry for delay in response, I seem to have missed this whole week!
LikeLike
What a predicament! Impossible to imagine or accept either outcome. Much to think about; a heartbreaking turn of events. Love your direct narration and the amazing little twists at the end!
LikeLike
Thanks, Nancy, no easy answers here.
And sorry for delay in response, I seem to have missed this whole week!
LikeLike
Life choices are not easy. Firefighters have to ask folks if the ‘babies’ left inside have two or four legs…. there is a difference, though those with fur family may not agree.
LikeLike
Hi Jules, good to see you again.
Yes, there is a big difference, regardless of what people with pets might say.
We get over the loss of a dog or cat.
And sorry for delay in response, I seem to have missed this whole week!
LikeLiked by 1 person
Real life is always first. I don’t always get to read individual stories. This last bit (the dogs… I read the collection).
Take care and be happy!
LikeLike
What a difficult situation for the characters to be in. Decisions can be made here that would never be considered otherwise.
LikeLike
Exactly so, Nicole. If it made you pause for thought, I’m happy.
And sorry for delay in response, I seem to have missed this whole week!
LikeLiked by 1 person
A true horror story, this. So matter-of-factly told up to the chilling twist! Dog’s saved his life twice, for goodness sake! Oh no, wait… You don’t actually say. Maybe the narrator is planning to slit his own throat and leave the water to the dog? Aye right! Great wee story.
LikeLike
PS Fabulous dog!
LikeLike
With that German Shepherd Husky cross, he might read your intention. Be wary & hope he runs away…
😢
LikeLike
Thanks for the comment, Liz, I seem to have not answered any here!
LikeLiked by 1 person
https://lgyslaine.wordpress.com/2023/04/03/toutes-les-nuits-ont-leur-histoire-every-night-have-their-story/
Gyslaine, merci pour le Like! Comme je suis content de te voir ici, ça fait trop longtemps, ma chère amie
LikeLike