The homemade peanut butter treat proved to be too unpleasant for Ava’s terrier. The little puppy almost choked on it before spitting it out. Jaxon didn’t expect that, and now he had made Ava upset again. She didn’t like the idea to begin with, but Jaxon insisted. He thought it was the perfect solution.

Question

Now, Jaxon was not only worried, but he was also nervous. He wanted to win back Ava’s friendship that had taken a toll last week. He thought if Kiwi, his poodle, loved it, then Ava’s dog must love it too. Sadly, that was not the case. Ava cuddled her terrier to calm him down.

“But Kiwi was fine,” Jaxon muttered to himself, trying to make sense of what had just happened.

Ava heard him.

“Stop being silly, Jaxon,” she scowled. “Get it in your head that not all dogs are the same or like the same things. Like people, they too are different.” She stressed the last word.

“I am sorry,” sniffled Jaxon, looking sad and remorseful.

“It’s okay,” said Ava, noticing how miserable Jaxon looked.

Though she was still upset, she quickly calmed herself down and returned to her cheerful self.

“I am taking Max out to play in the dog park. Want to come along?”

“Sure thing,” grinned Jaxon from ear to ear.

He wasn’t expecting to hear these words. But, boy, was he glad as he hopped along with his best friend and the pets.

Answer 1

As they made their way to the dog park, the sun shone brightly overhead, illuminating the vibrant green grass and the colorful flowers lining the path. Jaxon felt his worries begin to dissipate with each step, the excited yips of Max and Kiwi echoing around them.

Ava held Max’s leash tightly, glancing back at Jaxon with a smile. “You know, it’s okay to make mistakes,” she said, her voice warm. “What matters is that you learn from them.”

Jaxon nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. He appreciated Ava’s forgiveness and her willingness to move on. “I promise, I’ll pay more attention next time,” he replied earnestly. “Maybe we can make a different treat that both dogs will love?”

“Now you're thinking!” Ava laughed, her laughter contagious. “What do you have in mind?”

As they reached the park, which was bustling with other dogs and their owners, Jaxon’s mind raced with possibilities. “How about some pumpkin and peanut butter biscuits? I’ve heard dogs love them, and they’re safe for most pooches.”

“Sounds delicious!” Ava agreed, letting Max off his leash. The little terrier dashed toward a group of playful pups, tail wagging furiously. Kiwi quickly followed suit, barking joyfully.

Watching their dogs frolic, Jaxon accessed the situation, his heart lightening as he saw Ava's face brighten up. He decided right then and there that today was about fun and building memories.

“Let’s find a shady spot for our picnic after they’re done playing!” he suggested, feeling inspired.

“Great idea! I’ll pack some snacks for us, too,” Ava replied, her excitement mirrored in her voice.

The two friends watched their pets run wildly in the sun, barking and pursuing each other with unbounded joy. In that moment, the earlier tension faded completely. Jaxon took a deep breath, embracing the warmth of friendship and forgiveness.

For the rest of the afternoon, they spent their time chatting, laughing, and crafting plans for their homemade dog treats, each step bringing them closer together. Jaxon knew he would be extra careful in the future, and he felt confident in the renewed bond of friendship with Ava.