Ballard Street by Jerry Van Amerongen for January 05, 2023

Neal should invest in a pair of riding boots.

I love dogs, but I’d bash the crap out of them with that tactical briefcase, myself.

That’s the 3rd blue suit this week. You’d think he’d take the back streets. Neal isn’t the brightest blub in the lamp.

A golf club here would work wonders

If only Neal had known this ahead of time. Neal enjoys the adventure. He just doesn’t like being late.

Bear spray, Neal, bear spray!

Neal, you need to find another route to work.

It’s not as easy as you guys think. Rusty threatens Neal with the growls and Muffin attacks from behind.

Neal does know some quick tailors.

He needs a walking stick.

All you guys and your violent solutions…

He should first try wearing shorts till he gets to the office, where he keeps his trousers stashed in a drawer.

You’re right… boots would be better than shoes, though those two might be capable of boot-chewing.

Some treats to distract them might help.

Of course, the best solution would be driving a car to work, or taking the bus… perhaps those things are not available to him, though buses are fairly plentiful in Ballard County.

If he walks for his health, yes, a different route would be in order.

As acting Sheriff, I’ll send Officer Batpug out to have a talk with Rusty and Muffin… he speaks fluent Dog.

In fact it’s his native language.

Proud graduates of “Scooter’s Bad Dog” School. (Yes, that’s right, the infamous SBD… ☺)

He knows he’s there…so come out you little pest!

Rusty and Muffin just want to make sure Neal gets off to work on the ‘right’ foot.

Walk softly and carry a big stick!

The only time I had trouble with a dog going after my ankles was when the owners were nearby. I made like I was going to kick, and the owners got the dog away quickly.

And that does not include the time to change into working clothes.

This strip dates from before the invention of pepper spray.

Good morning Balladeers, (((((Plods))))) and Miss Susan.

A good set of high spats would get you there right quick…

Rusty and Muffin practice the Patton method…..A good plan violently executed now is better than a perfect plan executed next week.

Used to be that two pairs of pants with a suit jacket was adequate. Not any more. Muffin gets the left leg, saving the right for Rusty.

Every day, a new pair of pants.