Pets

"Rufus"

I'm rather fond of animals.  Well, most of them.  I've also met people who have unusual pets.  There used to be a man walking around Big Bear with a long, yellow python draped around him.  I dread to think what would have happened if the snake became angry for some reason.  I've had gerbils, budgerigars, guinea pigs and a tortoise in my family.  But my friend Pat has a tame cockerel - he keeps it in his office.  Rufus is a splendid chap.  He's also quite friendly provided you are positive and "don't let him smell your fear!"  I stroke his back feathers when I see him; Pat is extremely fond of him.  In fact Rufus follows him around and seems to think he's a dog.