by Ruth S. Baker

“Provided with a board full of buttons, some pets appear to be communicating
with their humans—and researchers are investigating …
More than 1,000 dogs, 50 cats and a few horses are involved in the project—
with more applicants every day.”
—The Guardian

When I applied, I knew, of course,
My chance was slim. I am a horse,
And I’m aware the bureaucrats
Take twenty times as many cats,
And as for dogs! What hierarchs
Place such a premium on barks?
But undeterred I stamped the form.
I’m not afraid to buck the norm,
If just so someone has applied
Who will not take you for a ride.