the dog trainer

the dog
paddles out into the shallow
lake.
the stick he wants
is just beyond
the pier
after a cartwheeled throw.
all four legs
below go at it, as if
running,
but afloat.
the owner stands dry
on the shore, he claps,
proud
of the lessons he's
given the dog,
sit heel, play dead,
go fetch, now here's a
little bone.