#like a soft play padding not a mental health facility

[walkthroughtheforest]

Ya girl needs some serious proprioceptive feedback right now. Like if I could just fling my whole body at a padded wall or go through a squeeze machine or be steam rollered right now I think that would solve a lot of things for me

[acertainmoshke]

To Die Among the Stars sounds really cool!

I'm so glad you think so because it's the one I'm currently actively trying to write! The general premise is that in a somewhat dystopian future, 20 "volunteers" are taken from places like prisons and hospitals and poor desperate parts of cities as human test subjects for a second try at FTL travel aimed at a distant but supposedly livable planet. The story cycles POV between 4 of these characters. No one expects them to make it - they need their mental health and biometric data on the experience to improve it for next time. I only just got to the part where they actually start flying, so I'm going to include the pasta scene I added for a bit of silliness. At this point they're in the facility where they get a few weeks of training on how to exist in space.

Scene below the cut. (Keep in mind this is my first draft and will be polished later)

Pixel ran their hands across the blue and red counters and the doors beneath them. They were covered with the wavy dent patterns that came from quick-printing. They drifted all the way to the corner before folding onto their knees to look in the nearest cupboard. It was packed full of boxes. They had to squint in the dim light to see them at all, but the pictures on most of them weren’t helpful—people dancing or playing or laughing but not eating. 

On the sixth try, they shook the box without looking. It rattled. Peel it open. It was full of small things… Pixel dipped their hand inside to pull one out. It looked like a noodle. That was good, they liked noodles. They popped it in their mouth. 

No! Alarm! Not a noodle! It was something dry and too hard to chew. It made a small clinking sound when they spit it on the floor. 

There was a soft sound behind them, like talking but too soft for talking. Pixel froze. It was dark and late and they were alone with Wire very far away. 

“Sorry. Do you need help?” The voice was still very soft, just on the edge of hearing, but it had a nice little vibration to it that tickled their ears. 

One-two-three-breath-turn. They looked back. Behind them was—a robot. An actual robot, not a modded human. And it was beautiful. It looked like the kind of robot toys other children had when Pixel was young, except as big as a person. Its legs and arms were thin jointed rods of metal. Its body was a shiny rounded cylinder, like a pill, but half-hidden behind a bright sweater. Its face was simple with light-up eyes and a fixed smile. Its eyes were glowing a soft red in the dark. 

It was probably a programmed assistant for the…whoever they were. Pixel held up the box. “Food?” 

The robot buzzed before answering. The sound was nice in their ears. “Yes, but even I know you have to cook pasta before you can eat it.” 

Pixel, still kneeling on the shimmery floor, looked at the multiple appliances up on the counter. They looked back at the robot and held out the box. 

The robot’s tone changed. They couldn’t read the new tone, but they knew it was different. “I don’t know how. I don’t eat.” 

Pixel shrugged at it and got up. They could make mods that let you see in infrared light or meant you could digest not-food things. They could figure this out. They opened the nearest appliance and put the box inside. Closed it again. Squinted at the buttons. None of them had pictures. 

The robot’s steps were surprisingly quiet. Pixel looked down. It wasn’t wearing shoes. Padding? 

“You can’t read.” 

They shook their head. 

“I don’t know what I’m doing either, but I can read the buttons. You must be smart to be here for some other useful reason. We’ll figure it out.”

It was nice to be talked to like an adult person by someone other than Wire, even if it was just by a robot. Pixel nodded their agreement. Pointed to the big, long button at the top. 

The robot leaned very close to read over their shoulder, but the closeness didn’t hurt. They didn’t feel hot, sticky breath on their neck or the pressure of another body near them. When the robot spoke again, its voice was tuned soft enough that even an inch away Pixel didn’t flinch. “‘Start.’ That seems like the last step. I saw an ad for a pot during my research last year. Pasta needs to get wet before it’s soft enough to eat.” 

There was a sink three steps away. Pixel turned the knob and water rushed out loudly, soaking the thin box of noodles. It was slimy now, a feeling that ran up their fingers, through their arm, across their neck, and finally filled their head with an unpleasant feeling of too many popping bubbles. All their thoughts got lost. They threw it back in the cooking machine, desperately wiping their hands on their new clothes, and looked back at the robot. 

The robot’s face never changed but its voice did, just a little. “I don’t think that’s right.” 

Pixel’s hands twisted hard in their tunic. 

“I think figuring this out might mean looking it up.” 

[genuflectx]

Alien/Reader {Xenith}

Length: 12,346 words

Main Themes: Aliens, fluff, consensual human pets, pet shows, micro/macro, comfort,

Other Warnings: Grief, global warming, mention of surgery, physical exam, telepathy, insects, space travel, broken family, being poor

SHOUT OUT to my beta readers! RosalieBear and Volurin!

(all images in aesthetic board are labeled for reuse with modification or are mine)

If you enjoy this writing, consider joining my patreon! $5 donors get to see half of stories like these before publishing, and $10 donors see the whole thing a full month before everyone else!

1/25/2020: REPOST

There was just nothing left for you on Earth. Nothing. The last thing you felt before leaving that dirt ball was relief.

The tides had risen significantly, draining into unprepared cities and tourist destinations. Corporations had seen it coming but had pockets too fat to ever consider a change. The little people wanted change; cried for it. There was simply no one around to listen. You could no longer stand to see your home planet dying in front of you. You’d already lost a pen-pal to the flood waters of a grand hurricane, inspired by the boiling sea.

The city you grew up in became more violent as you aged. You tried not to come out of your shoddy apartment if you could, wanting to avoid the risk of becoming the center of the next vigil. It wasn’t the peoples’ fault, widespread economic inequality plunged more and more innocents into unavoidable poverty. Even you saw some of that pain when one year, you were forced to live off of noodles, rice, and beans, courtesy of a broken limb. Medical bills weren’t cheap in your country.

But the worst of it wasn’t the failing climate or the civil unrest. It was the sheer loneliness. Your family was scattered; decades were punctuated by uneasy gatherings that just reiterated why it was you only met once every ten fucking years. Good god, even the aunt who was supposedly the nice one gave you the migraine of the century. And your parents? They’d broken your heart.

You’d had a generally good relationship with your mother and father, even if they always felt the need to fight against your every life decision. Your mother had contracted an avoidable ailment, believing only in alternative medicines, and passed away. Your father, unable to cope, spiraled into an understandable depression, and hadn’t been the same since. He did not believe in psychology or medications taken for mental health, much like your mother. And there was nothing you could do to change that. Years after your mother’s passing, you became distant from your father.

So there really was nothing for you left on Earth. Nothing but worsening weather, crushed rebellions, and your ever silent pay-as-you-go phone. But the Xenith homeworld, beaming with white light? It would be a clean slate. A new life.

It was nearly a decade ago that the Xenith had made first contact. They were easy going, monstrously big creatures, that became overly excited when they’d met their first human. They had no intention of meddling in human politics. No no, Earth was much too messy. But they thought the humans themselves were so interesting, that at the first world-wide conference with Earth’s leaders, they asked humanity to ship people to their planet as soon as possible. The world leaders had naturally been baffled. ‘Ship’ humans like a product? They did not agree. The Xenith had been disappointed but understood.

But, after many years of discussion, of voting, of drawing contracts, a few countries were finally on board. And it was all free. The Xenith provided everything needed to pay for transport. They even trained humans for and oversaw the surgeries that were necessary for humanity to survive in their atmosphere and gravity.

So, after having robotic organs implanted directly into your body, going through a long recovery process, and packing a few small bags, you were shepherded onto a spacecraft and given a room. You boarded without even looking back. Not even a text goodbye to your family. You were certain they would never even notice you were out of state, let alone off planet.

The journey wasn’t so terrible, if you were honest with yourself. Most of the staff were human, save for a single Xenith translator. But being near that one Xenith was simply… astounding. You got the feeling you would never lose the awe you had upon being in the same room as one, let alone if you were ever in the presence of a whole crowd.

It was true that they were giants. When knuckle-walking on all fours, they must have been at least fifteen to twenty feet tall. When standing bipedal, even taller. Their pads were soft, black to dark-blue, and stretched across ninety percent of their four thick fingers and beyond the knuckles. Then, their feet had three round toes with equally as thick padding on the soles.

Their bodies were smooth and rubbery, with semi-glittery skin, as if partially transparent. Skin colors ranged from pale blues, pinks, yellows, and grays, to the rare dark gray. They had four slits in their lower chest from which they breathed from, and instead of hair around the edges, there was a lace like material to protect the delicate flesh within. Tails were usually cropped, but if not cropped at birth then they would grow long and stiff. Their pelvic bone was theropod-like. It made them sit funny.

Despite their cold outward appearance and inability to express as widely as a human, they donned their bodies in beautiful clothes. The translator themself wore bright, pumpkin-orange fabrics over their body, which was embroidered with dark red thread. Their clothes were not tight fitting. Rather, they made one reminiscent of blankets thrown over horses during winter. Perhaps they even looked like capes, especially when they stood on their back feet.

Xenith were just amazing. You could hardly believe one of those beasts was supposedly going to adopt you. You couldn’t imagine how life with one would play out.

While the trip was very accommodating, and the watchful presence of the translator kept everyone up to date, the food had been a down side. Apparently supplying enough goodies for the re-locating humans had been too expensive after all those surgeries. Only the ship staff got the real stuff. Everyone else got flavored paste in pouches. The alien promised better grub upon arrival, as the government run ‘companion shops’ were very eager to receive a new shipment of humans.

“Thhhey’re the new favorittte,” the translator had bellowed with their strange, five-pronged tongue. “humansss…. are so cute! You will be treated well.”

You had a lot of thinking to do while the craft took its two month journey into the stars. This was considered a 'job’ or 'volunteer work’ by the humans who arranged the set up. But to the Xenith, it was much more. It made you wonder exactly what the nature of being a 'companion’ was. Before deciding to leave, you had done a little reading, but only enough to know that you were eligible and able to leave as soon as possible. The rest of the information on what the job entailed would come to you through the translator.

Xenith rarely spoke aloud, and when they did it was slow and booming with a lisp. Otherwise, communication lay in their skilled telepathic abilities. Their satellite dish heads and six wriggly antenna aided their inward conversation, but did not translate well with lesser species, including humans. It was very difficult for them to learn human languages. Luckily, the translator had become an expert over the year.

“When you arrive,” said the alien, their tongue pronouncing 'v’ as 'fph,’ “you will come to be placcced into public viewing roomsss in designated adoption locations. Many will be waittting. Many will want you.”

Someone in the back of the orientation room asked “So, this is like an apprenticeship, right?”

That had confused the Xenith. They blinked and took a brief moment to think, the skinny antennae on their flat head fidgeting. Eventually their brain pulled up the translation, and they perked up. “No, this is not ssservitude. You learn no trade. But if any harm comesss to you, you will be removed. Not that harm comesss your way. We cannot think to hurt our companion.”

“And we can leave whenever we want? If we don’t like it? I read that we could!” asked someone else skeptically.

They nodded. “Whenever you would like. But… you would break your master'sss heart, as you term the phrase,”

The more you learned about the species during your transport, the more you realized what the translator had said was pretty literal. Humanity liked to imagine itself as a quick-to-pack-bond species, but the Xenith had them beat. Their whole psychology was based so heavily around emotional bonding that when a pet passed away, it nearly killed them. For their companion to dislike them so much that they would leave willingly, it meant absolute heart break to the Xenith. You wouldn’t doubt that organ failure due to the strain of separation was possible too, but that was only a guess.

It was all as the translator had said. Upon arrival the humans were relocated to sprawling government facilities that housed creatures looking to be adopted. Both sentient and non-sentient species were presented. You were placed into a rather roomy, glass-walled space at the front of the building. Two other humans lived with you, and through the right-sided wall, you could see another group of three inside of their own spacious glass room. It truly reminded you of a combination pet shop and apartment complex, if not for the hovering aliens constantly peeping over the glass.

A caretaker, who did not speak any human languages, made sure all was well three times a day. Hot food and heavily filtered water were always available. The three of you had your own rooms with human beds, which the Xenith cleaned once a day.

You’d never had a maid before. It gave you a vague sense of guilt that you weren’t cleaning the room yourself, but the caretaker did not seem to mind. If anything, they acted as if they had the most wondrous job on the planet; humming aloud and talking cheerfully to the pets despite language barriers.

Over the course of three days your bunk mates had been adopted. You grew sad and alone, wondering why it was you that had yet to be chosen. Humans were supposed to be the new favorites, right? There were certainly a great number of Xenith who still visited your cage, but after they spoke with the caretaker, they left to view other options.

What was so wrong with you? Was it something the caretaker said that scared everyone away? Many a night was spent at the edge of your tidy little bed, lost in thought. Anxiety plagued your heart. Maybe this was a mistake.

At the very least, there was a particular Xenith that visited you once a day. You wanted to believe that they were interested in having you, but worry got the best of your troubled mind. For all you knew, they just pitied you; glancing down into the glass thinking how it was so sad no one actually wanted to take you home. You sighed.

This alien had four fleshy horn-like appendages on their satellite dish head, in which the top-most left horn was shorter, as if by past injury. A deep dark red cloak was tied over their back, which fluttered and swayed as they padded on their knuckles. The reds, accented by golds, contrasted the pale, desaturated blue of their silvery skin. They also had a cropped tail, and whenever they greeted the caretaker, their tail stub and six pink antennae would wiggle.

You hoped with all your heart that they were thinking about picking you. You couldn’t take the loneliness any longer. That was the main reason why you left Earth, after all. Still, the nagging fear that you would not be wanted, not even by the supposedly pack bonding Xenith, instilled a deeply rooted misery in your twisting guts.

Another despairing week passed by. In the morning, that particular red-robed Xenith came to your display for the dozenth time. The caretaker came with them, and they were both glancing down at you and across to one another silently. You squinted, wondering what the pale giants were telecommuting about.

“(And all is settled? The shipment is now here? It must be perfect.)”

The inner eye lids of the caretaker’s eyes blinked slowly. “(Correct, Sientia. The import of human belongings has docked. Expect delivery today.)”

Sientia was delighted, their upper most and longest antenna coiling together with excitement. They gently lifted and pressed the pads of their knuckles to the ground, as if prancing in place. Now that the secondary ships containing Earth goods were finally arriving, caring for human pets would be a lot easier. There had to be good beds, good bathrooms, good food and clothes. So, tomorrow, Sientia would come back and remove you from the lonely communal homes.

Sientia, some short time before, had reached the end of their mourning period. As a Xenith, companionship was the main driving force of their life. So when their previous pet passed away of old age, they fell into a deep, sorrowful grief, and decided if they survived mourning, the next one must have a longer life span. It just so happened that the long-lived alien species, Homo sapiens, were finally agreeing to put their people into the Xenith pet program.

So, Sientia had given away some of their extra crop in order to secure their pick of the next human pet shipment. Each craft carried fifty at a time, so demand was very high, especially being that it was first come first serve with pets. And on the first day of your shipment’s arrival, Sientia had chosen you. You were the perfect shape, and with the despairing history listed in your files, Sientia knew you had to be the one. How could they choose any other human to be their companion? They would give you a happy life.

Both of the giants began to stare down at you, and you stared back. The visitor lifted back their lips (or what barely constituted as lips) and bore their flat teeth in what you assumed was meant to be a smile. Xenith facial expressions were rather empty, since they spoke telepathically. This one was acting on purpose. They were hoping to elicit comfort from you. Instead, something about the attention made you embarrassed and you looked back down.

The next day the funny blue-tinted alien arrived to take you home. They were accompanied by the caretaker, who was in very good spirits. Sientia splayed out their huge palm inside the glass, awaiting your reaction. Instantly, the caretaker jolted.

“(You may scare the thing away with such forward action! It is typical to allow me to place the pet into a container for relocation. If they bite you or become injured, I am not liable.)”

Sientia barely flinched at the warning, instead focusing on you. It was as if they had not heard the caretaker at all. “(Come, come. I am taking you home!)”

When Sientia 'spoke,’ you heard nothing. Rather, you felt the strangest tickle in your brain that traveled down your spine, and you got the sense that they were asking for your attention.

Glancing slowly from the hand to the strange salamander face above you, you suddenly realized you were being adopted. Relief washed over you and, with a nervous smile, you climbed on.

You flailed and got to your knees when the hand moved. Gravity pressed down on you gently as Sientia lifted you up, up, up out of the glass apartment and into the air. They stopped you close to their face, where you could look deeply into their six pink neon eyes.

“…H-hi,” you peeped, feeling as vulnerable as a bare baby.

“(Look, they are brave! I will carry them,)” Sientia imparted happily to the caretaker.

“(Very well. Allow them to collect their belongings, then you may leave. Please contact us if you require additional supplies. And you,)” The caretaker gestured towards you with their long antennae. “(You must be good to Sientia. Their body is weak from mourning.)”

Of course, you heard nothing.

So you gathered your things and went home with them in the most horrifying way possible; over twenty feet in the air. They trod home on two feet. The world moved passed you in a blur of light and color, and when Sientia noticed you shaking, they placed their other hand over you to create a comfortable bubble of safety. You wrapped your arms around one of their thick fingers so you could feel some sense of security.

Eventually you arrived. Before letting you down, they moved into a specific room and closed the door behind them. It was best to let pets grow used to their new environment slowly. One room would do for now.

“(There you are,)” they comforted. They placed you and your suitcase at the mouth of a house-sized 'cage,’ which rested upon a high surface. “(Nice and easy.)”

The comforting words fell upon deaf ears. You stood there shaking, still feeling adrenaline pumping in your veins. You barely shifted to glance back at the uncomfortably square human-sized door.

Sientia stared at you. When you only moved to cross your arms, they snorted from the nostrils of their chest and went away to a device embedded in the wall. They touched the screen. A couple of choice pages were pulled up, to which they read greedily from. Images were downloaded.

They glanced back at you. Back to the screen. Back at you. Then they lumbered over and sat down nearby.

“(I see I have made a mistake, your expression seems to be 'unhappy,’ or 'distant.’ You are a brave human. But. I may have been irresponsible to carry you before you were ready. I got, excited.)”

They studied your face for a while longer, their expression hard to read. Xenith had a perma-smile, much like dolphins. Sometimes it was unnerving to look at.

You looked away, feeling awkward to be stared at silently. Soon you began to glance around the gigantic room, noticing the state of your surroundings. Besides Sientia’s bed (what looked like a pile of cloth in a long box), a computer poking out of the wall, and the smooth counter top that your cage sat upon, the room was eerily empty. The walls were a pale, metallic pink, and a heavy light emulated the sun overhead. No windows.

Sientia huffed. They decided they would attempt to communicate better. They didn’t know your language, but they had learned a few words and phrases in preparation for your arrival. They’d probably butcher them, but hopefully you would understand. Earth languages did not come easily with their sticky, five pronged tongue.

“(Perhaps I should have began with) Hello, I am called Sssientia.”

You started frightfully. You didn’t think this one could talk!

“Could you speak the whole time? Um, I’m [Y/N]. Your name is… pretty. Ssssen-ccchia,” you enunciated. It sounded more harsh from your toothy mouth, though.

They perked up, pleased. Finally, your attention was back upon them. Now you both knew each other’s names. Not a bad start!

“Hungry?” asked the giant, trying to speak softly so as not to frighten you.

You smiled shyly. That spooky ride to your new home had made you forget you hadn’t had breakfast. “Yes, a little.” you replied.

Sientia knew 'yes.’ They made a low, throaty sound and stood up on all fours, then got to their two feet. You were left alone in the empty room as the alien fetched something to eat. Curiosity over came you; what would they bring back? The adoption facility had given you baked chicken, fresh corn-on-the-cob, and ripe fruits like peaches and pears. Would your new owner present the same? Your belly rumbled.

They returned, hopeful you would like the foods they were given from the companion facility. Sientia plopped down carefully and lowered their palm. Inside was a cucumber, a hunk of warm, uncut bread, and a fat chicken leg. The meal looked miniscule in their oversized grasp.

“Strange combination,” you mumbled with a smirk, accepting the food. There was no plate, so you just nibbled straight from their hand.

Sientia’s antennae wiggled and curled with joy. They watched their little pet eat from their palm; a new sense of adoration and comfort washing over them. They had a good feeling about you, even if they still hurt from their previous loss.

They’d been so terribly sad when their previous pet had passed. Sientia had known that it was coming. That species only lived about twenty-five years, which for a human, was fifteen Earth years. But it was still a shock when they’d woken to find their beloved friend gone. Even while watching you eat, they felt a small tang of pain. The mourning period was over, but the sadness of memory never really left.

As you crunched straight into the juicy cucumber, Sientia crunched down on something too. You stared up, head cocking in confusion. When Sientia noticed, they slowly lowered the partially eaten food to your level for you to get a good look-see.

You stepped back. “Ah! That’s a HUGE bug!”

The half-eaten insect-like fauna was removed from your space as soon as Sientia realized it scared you. Seemed like a lot about the Xenith world frighten a human, but they hoped you would come to enjoy it in time.

“(It is tasty, I raise them. Perhaps I will show you the farm someday. But staying very close. You are a good snack for large livestock, like this one,)” they gestured by lifting the insect in hand, then biting off another gooey chunk.

You shuddered and averted your eyes. Gross. How could you forget? Xenith were well known on Earth as a people who consumed 'gargantuan pests.’ Great measures were taken to bar them from entering livestock onto Earth when they visited. Dead ones only. They’d surely cause a massive plague if not kept well under watch. Yet, here on the Xenith home planet, they were farmed far and wide as a main source of food.

You weren’t hungry anymore.

The rest of the day was spent inside that one room, exploring. That is to say, exploring what little there was to actually explore. Your cage was like a little house: a cozy bedroom with a king-sized bed, a spacious bathroom (plumbing and all), a small library with books in many languages, and a more open area for eating.

The cage did not have a ceiling, except for the bathroom. One of the walls of your bedroom was glass, while the dining room was all glass. By contrast, both the library and the bathroom were made of painted wooden walls.

Below the cage there was empty space, empty space, empty space. Perhaps for Sientia this was a small room, but to a human it was a beaming cathedral. You felt like a ladybug when you tottered about the bottom edges of Sientia’s thickly blanketed bed. Sientia kept a close eye on you while you sniffed around. They did not want to step on you.

The day was long on this planet. A cycle was thirty-two Earth hours. You ended up taking a five hour 'nap’ in the mid-day. Had a second meal. Then about three hours after that, Sientia gently put you back to bed and dimmed the room’s light.

After a very, very long sleep, you were awoken as Sientia stirred about the house. You rose drowsily. Good god, you hoped a few months on that schedule would see you adjusting to it well. Your circadian rhythm, so far, was displeased. Days too long, nights too long. But you’d live.

As you slipped an old T-shirt over your head, Sientia appeared, looking in above you. They watched you a bit, but you were reluctant to do anything while feeling like a walking television.

“Uh, hi,” you waved awkwardly.

“Hi,” Sientia repeated. They did not know many words. “Hungry?”

Food was already set out for you in the dining area. You had a breakfast of scrambled eggs (a little rubbery), pancakes (with maple embedded), and a sliced apple (salted). When you were full, Sientia slid one of the glass walls out of place. You didn’t know those were removable!

A hand was laid down. “[Y/N], come, (I am going to get you many nice things to wear.)”

You grimaced. You didn’t want to be carried around like that again just yet. “I would rather not.”

Sientia’s antennae moved subtly, thinking, then they understood the issue. The hand came back up as they puffed out their chest. Sientia pointed to a harness. Right above their four nostrils was a backpack like carrier, which was strapped around their shoulders. It reminded you of a baby wrap or purse, but much, much larger. It even had a few pouches in front for accessories, such as food or toys.

“You had one of those? Why did you carry me in your hand yesterday!” It was more scolding than it was a question.

Sientia bellowed a response, but you got the feeling that it was as meaningful as a human meowing back at a cat.

“…Alright, okay. Let’s just do this then.”

So they cheerfully settled you into the pocket on their chest. It was deep enough that you would not have to see the world, if you choose not to climb up and look.

You spent the ride curled up close to the side of the pouch that Sientia’s skin touched on the other side. You thought you could hear a heartbeat from there, but that was surely impossible. Xenith didn’t have hearts. At least, not in the human sense. Still, there was the steady pulse of their body, thumping gently and keeping you calm. And since you were so close to their nostrils, hot air constantly warmed the pouch. You wondered if this was how a lap dog felt while being carried in a purse. It was nice. You nearly forgot that you were being carried far from the ground.

Finally, Sientia came to their destination. It was a little pet boutique that sold many different types of imported clothes, specializing in sentient species. It had recently begun to acquire shipments of imported human goods.

Sientia had been devastated to see what little you had brought with you, and was determined to put you in something better. You may have left your new home wearing a hole-worn T-shirt, but you would return wearing lavish threads.

“(Hello, what species do you shop for?)” asked the retailer, who was dressed in extravagant magenta fabrics.

You poked your head out, nervous eyes wandering around.

“(Eh! You care for a human! So cute! Yes, yes, we have many clothes for humans. Please, let them down to browse, and we may write up a payment plan.)”

Sientia helped you to the floor and the retailer pointed them towards the human section. It looked small, but it was truly as expansive as a mega-chain on Earth.

“Y/N,” Sientia gestured towards the clothes and gave you a nudge.

You hadn’t been paying much attention and stumbled, catching your balance by grasping onto a clothes rack. Upon realizing the rack was proportionate to your size, you gawked. Your wide, surprised eyes drank in the sight; rows upon rows of imported human goods. Dresses, jackets, shorts, coats, an extensive section of underwear. You looked back at Sientia with awe.

“Are you actually going to buy me clothes?” you peeped, barely audible enough for the pale giant.

When they gestured towards the rows again, you turned and began to tear through the selection.

You tried on clothes for an Earth hour. When you’d come out from the (far too big) stalls to show Sientia, they were always overjoyed with how stunning you looked. It didn’t seem to matter what you picked out, it simply pleased them that you were having so much fun.

At the checkout line, you had garment after garment piled up in your arms. You couldn’t remember the last time your face had hurt from smiling this long. Sientia carefully petted your head with a round finger tip before taking the clothes and checking out. You’d gotten all that you’d wanted, and instead of being chided, your master was brimming with elation. No one had ever been so glad to throw their money away on you. Not even your parents. You tried to massage your cheeks to relax them while the retailer and Sientia finished up their business.

Back home, you folded and hung your new threads up neatly. Then you strutted about bearing a fancy faux fur coat and patterned leggings. You even had new name brand shoes. None of it matched, but it was more than you’d ever had. To show off like a proud peacock made you blush, but Sientia purred and grumbled happily, finding you quite humorous. You couldn’t help but enjoy their attention after such a nice outing together.

They brought their head down to the table. “(You seem so happy and look so good! I hope I’m doing well by you, so that you may want to stay with me.)”

You came near. Avoiding their watchful gaze, you nervously lifted a hand and patted their snout, between the smaller eyes. “Thank you for all of this, really. I was worried about being here, but I think… maybe you have a good heart. Or,” you laughed “maybe you just like to spend extravagant amounts of money to show off? Well.. I’m grateful.”

They audibly chirped at you in reply, nuzzling the hand carefully with affection.

A few days went by uneventfully. Then one day, while you were being allowed to explore the (much larger) main chamber, a loud beep alerted Sientia to visitors.

They opened the door. “(Antha, you’re here! Welcome! It’s been very long, please come and have a drink. Where is your- eh! Your human is on your head! Doesn’t that hurt?)”

The dark gray Xenith bumped a padded fist with Sientia in greeting, then chuckled out loud. They came inside as they spoke. “(Only a little, it tickles now mostly. We are close, so I am not annoyed! Now, where is yours that you tell me so much about? I’ve been eager for ours to meet. It is good for humans to have a friend. They’re social beings.”)

You carefully stepped under a table, watching the guest enter. Upon the other’s dark, wide set head, a human stood and clung to antennae with both of their hands. It frightened you even to look at. Good god, that was high. They could slip at any moment and plummet to their death. You had to look away so it didn’t make you queasy.

“Come,” called Sientia as the two Xenith laid on blankets around the shallow table.

So you came out and were placed upon the surface, which was covered with a thin, patterned cloth. Likewise, the guest brought down their companion. Instead of going to greet one another, you both remained close to the side your master lay at. But then Antha spoke an alien language out loud, and their human came to you.

“Hey. Antha thinks I need to talk to someone of my own species I guess. So uh,” he stuck out his hand awkwardly.

What was this, a business meeting? You hesitantly accepted the shake. This man was possibly ten years older than you and was wearing casual, comfortable clothes. He spoke with a slight accent, which you were unfamiliar with. But the most interesting feature was that when Antha spoke to him again, he actually turned and understood.

“So like… you can understand them?”

The man turned back to you. “Uh, not really,” he pointed at a device in his ear. “Antha just got us digital translators. I mean, some of the words don’t translate very well, and there’s some lag, but it’s better than nothing. I think my master is going to give yours one! Say, how long have you been a pet?”

While you and the other chatted idly, Sientia and Antha caught up.

“(So… you’ve been feeling better?)” Antha asked quietly in Sientia’s head.

Sientia’s eyes became downcast. “(I… suppose so. It’s hard to adjust to something new after being with someone for so long. It’s going to take a while.)”

Antha lowered their head in understanding.

“(It still hurts. As I rest, my body aches,)” their six antennae moved sluggishly and drooped.

Antha attempted to comfort. “(I am here. And so is- what do you call your companion? They will sooth your ache too.)”

“([Y/N], a good name. I believe they are feeling well about their new home. The cage is proportioned correctly, and they have eaten nearly everything I’ve given them. We do not communicate well, because we cannot understand one another, but I feel that they are generally happy so far.)”

Antha’s head bobbed, remembering they’d come for a reason. “(Th, yes! Here, accept this gift!)” they then dug something out of the pouch around their chest. There was a strange object, meant to be clipped onto one of the large antennas. Then, beside it, a tinier object that looked like a grain of sand in the palm of a Xenith.

“(Gift?)”

“(See that I speak to my human so easily? This is a translator! My friend, you’ve been through such grief, you deserve something nice. Please accept it.) Clarence dear, help [Y/N] with the device.”

The man stopped talking and perked up at his name. He nodded, and took the small piece when it was lowered to him. He helped you do basic set up while Antha fit the bigger piece onto Sientia. It took about ten minutes to get everything all settled, but luckily, it wasn’t too difficult.

“Can you hear me?” asked your master nervously.

You gasped then smiled. Amazing! “Yes! Yes, I understand perfectly! This is so cool!”

Clarence returned to the side of Antha and sat in their hand, satisfied.

“It works well,” spoke Antha, rubbing their thumb gently over their pet’s back.

“Thank you Antha! Th- [Y/N], are you happy?”

Emotions were mingling and mixing intensely inside of you. So when Sientia suddenly popped that question, you had to take a moment to process it. That was only the third question Sientia had asked you since meeting, and it was such a selfless one. You blushed.

“I-I-I mean-” you stammered. “-this world is… different. But the air is clean and the people are kind, so.. yeah. I’m pretty happy,” you spilled. “Anything beats Earth.”

You glanced back at Clarence and Antha. Clarence was rubbing his face against Antha’s fingers affectionately like a cat. Your blush darkened and you snapped back to Sientia, who titled their head.

“Are you happy, Sientia?” you peeped. You wanted to add 'are you happy with ME?’ but did not.

“…Yes, see?” they put on a humanoid smile, teeth and all, like they had done before adopting you. But there was a thin layer of sadness under that reply.

You were quiet, but eventually smiled back. You hoped Sientia couldn’t understand the way your brows furrowed in concern.

After a short, awkward silence, Antha huffed and spoke up. “Sientia, [Y/N], have you considered competing yet?”

You looked back and forth between the two. “Competing?”

“(NO,)” Sientia lowered their head and looked away. “(Antha… you know that was Inridd'h and I’s favorite thing.)”

“(Yes, I’m sorry,)” they apologized, before lifting a grabby Clarence up onto their head. “(But I just… I also know how much it meant to you. To be able to train and spend so much time with your companion, and to show the crowd how much you trusted one another.”)

It seemed the Xenith were ignoring you. You sighed and sat down, legs crossed.

Sientia looked back up at Antha, their sad pink and cyan eyes like doe. They watched Clarence balance and keep a careful hold on Antha’s antennae. Eventually he made his way to the back of Antha’s head where their crest was, and settled there when Antha tilted their head forward. No sense of fear. Clarence knew Antha would not allow him to fall. Then, Sientia shifted to watch you. You sat so patiently, waiting for attention. Guilt struck the blue Xenith.

“[Y/N],” they called softly. “Would you like to compete?”

You straightened up. “Well, that probably depends on what you two mean by competing. Like… sports?”

Antha rumbled. “Perhaps not. It’s more similar to a, ehm, a 'dog show?'”

They didn’t sound too convinced of their own comparison. You scratched your head and leaned back on your hands. “So like, being dressed up and paraded around an arena? Or is it more like agility, where dogs run through tubes and go up ramps?”

Both of the aliens looked confused. It seemed they had difficulty explaining. Antha only had vague knowledge of how human dog shows worked, and Sientia was totally unaware of them. However, Clarence had been in a few small scale shows.

“It’s kind of a dog show plus beauty pageant!” he yelled from Antha’s head. Antha flinched in return, so Clarence apologized quietly for yelling so close to their sensitive antennae.

Sientia placed their head onto the table, where eye contact was easier. They looked like they were awaiting a response.

You stood and crossed your arms uncomfortably. A sense of dread sat in your guts. You thought about the nice new clothes you’d been given, and tried to imagine yourself walking down a stage all fluffed up. All your brain could conjure was the image of a crowd of Xenith and strange, beautiful alien creatures, wondering why it was you were so… ugly. Why were your clothes like that? Why walk that way? You imagined what they’d say.

'Oh, you know humanity is simply second to the slug peoples of planet Dirtemous. That’s why they all look and act so hilarious!’

Then the beautiful alien’s equally beautiful friend would laugh and reply. 'Yes, and what sort of awful thing would ever want to claim THAT particular human as a pet? I’d rather have the slug! Ho-ho-ho!’

You took a breath. What a stupid imagination you had. But even such an exaggerated, outlandish thought had some sort of truth in it. You were anxious. Not only were you worried about being scrutinized by strangers, you were also worried that you would embarrass your master. Sientia was a kind, lonely thing. They didn’t need you making things worse. You were just making yourself sadder and sadder, and the look in Sientia’s eyes did not help.

“You don’t have to agree, my pet,” they eventually added.

With one last glance at Clarence and Antha, you decided. You wanted to trust Sientia like that. You wanted to make them happy. So, you would try.

“Yes. I don’t think I’ll be very good at it, or win anything, but… yes. I’ll compete,” you shrugged.

There was both pain and joy inside of Sientia. The notion that they were replacing a chunk of their heart that was once filled with their old pet devastated them. But they also knew the only way to recover was to keep going; to move forward. Inridd'h would not have wanted them to keep falling asleep at night aching for relief. Inridd'h did not smile upon them when they shut themself away.

Sientia, too, would try.

An overwhelming desire for comfort overtook Sientia, and they scooted their flat head forward to nuzzle you. It knocked you back a bit to have their whole head thrust up against your body, but you steadied and petted their head.

“Are you okay?” you asked, unaware of why it was they seemed so upset.

Antha stood up slowly. “It is time we head back home. Please keep in contact, Sientia. I care. We will want to come to your competition! Goodbye friends.”

“(Wait, you never had anything to drink!)”

But Antha and Clarence had already gotten to the door and let themselves out.

You hadn’t been sure what training for an alien competition would entail.

Apparently, you would be physically looked over to determine if you had good breeding. Like a dog. You didn’t look forward to that part very much, considering you were sentient and not some space lemur that could just be treated like decoration. This segment would also note your outfit. Sientia had said that this part of the competition would be worth less points than the rest of the competition.

Then, much like a pageant, you would show off your talents. This forced you to actually have to sit down one night and determine what the hell your talents even were. Running away from home, maybe? You got flashbacks from the horrific talent show in second grade. You did not want a repeat of that.

“I don’t think I really have any talents,” you admitted to your master as you sat comfortably in their bed.

Sientia laid down beside you, poking at a device in their hands. You supposed the device was much like a cell phone on Earth, but made for the Xeniths’ large, clumsy fingers. They were pulling up videos of humans performing various tasks, hoping to find a talent to suggest.

“Cooking?” they asked.

“I can cook packaged ramen. Maybe bake a potato. So no.”

“Horse riding? We do not have a 'horse,’ but they can provide something similar.”

You plopped over on your back, grimacing. “God, no.”

“Th! Humans are adequate at singing!”

“Um… let’s not even go there.”

With every suggestion your heart sank further and further. You should have never agreed. With a sigh you turned over onto your side, hoping to keep Sientia from seeing the way your eyes watered. You wiped at the sting.

“Sientia, really, I don’t think I can win this. So maybe I should give up before we get too deep.”

They sat up on their elbows, setting the device down. “I detect sadness in your voice. Did you change your mind?”

“I just don’t want to get your hopes up.”

The room was quiet a moment. Then the giant turned on their side and gently rubbed their finger along your back, hoping to ease the pain in your words. The sensation was… actually very nice.

“Please, do not be sad [Y/N]! You don’t have to do this if it makes you uncomfortable. The competition is simply an act, performed for the love of it, and perhaps sometimes for the prize! I don’t believe any companion’s master has been broken by a loss. I could not be disappointed if we lost. So, please feel better.”

You still had a heavy heart, but the reassurance that this was not anything serious helped you feel a bit easier. Knowing that Sientia already knew you could lose and did not care cheered you up even more.

“R-really?” you squeaked, turning onto your back once again.

They nodded, swiping their finger across your torso and belly as if to continue comforting.

You squeaked and grabbed the finger, face red. “That tickles!”

Sientia stopped and removed the appendage. “Eh! Sorry!” they looked away. “My… previous companion enjoyed belly rubs.”

Now it was Sientia who sounded sad.

“Do you… want to talk about it?”

They thought, antennae moving slow as if fidgeting. Eventually they huffed out hot air and answered.

“They were bigger than you. Non-sentient. Covered in rough, damp skin. Very jumpy and loud, and they passed away in their favorite spot in the glass house. We… used to compete a lot. And I miss them,” Sientia seemed to sink into the blankets. “That is all I would like to say for now. I’m still hurting.”

You had to wipe at your eyes again. Memories of your mother played through your tumultuous brain, reminding you how grief could invade one’s life so fully. Even when your family had problems, you never could stifle or hide the hurt when she passed. After gaining courage, you stood and moved to curl up against Sientia’s skin.

The alien was surprised at the contact. They glanced down and felt their affection surge for you, the finger coming to your back again.

“You’re so much softer than Inridd'h. So much different.”

You curled against yourself tighter and nuzzled your forehead against their skin. “I’m sorry.”

“No, it is good that you’re different. I’m different than I once was, too. Please never be sorry for being yourself, my pet.”

After a minute or two of easy silence, they added. “Do you still want to compete, or have your changed your mind?”

Without hesitation, you replied. “I still want to do it. Maybe I can’t think of a talent off the top of my head, but… I’m sure we’ll figure it out. Together.”

In the end, you decided on painting. According to Sientia, Xenith were most fond of abstract art. That was something you could do. Though not formally trained, you’d painted a couple of shoddy pieces in the past that your parents had enjoyed. One had even been printed as a holiday greetings card, much to your embarrassment. But unlike the thickly globbed on acrylics of family pets and favored cartoon characters, you’d be working with thin watercolors to make something representational and abstract.

So you practiced and practiced. Sientia had even gotten you a nice new desk to sit and paint at. You’d use thin sheets of paper to work with, though the Xenith’s idea of “thin paper” was still rather thick.

It was actually extremely therapeutic to just focus on shapes and color. You’d find yourself trying to represent the objects in your room without making it obvious what they were. Making an abstract piece representational was a feat and required a great deal of thought. You hoped by the time the competition started, you’d be able to stand in front of the crowd and paint something they would enjoy.

Soon, you moved onto painting on a sheet of paper tacked to a wooden board, which was held up by a portable easel. You’d stand in front of the blank, semi-yellowed sheet, and just think. A pink spot there. An orange square there. A deep, deep cobalt wave streaked vertically through the piece. It was missing something. You watered down some yellow then made a generously thick, wiggly-lined circle around the square. Done.

“How comes practice?”

You were startled and snapped your head up. How long had Sientia been watching? You stilled your heart and smiled up at them. “I actually think my work isn’t half bad!”

“Hm,” The giant lowered their head closer to your spot on the counter top. “What is it?”

You stepped back. “Well, what do you think it is?”

This response pleased Sientia. They tilted their head this way and that, before deciding. “I don’t recognize the shape. This yellow, it is a good color. I am no artist, but I also enjoy-” they gestured to the blue. “-this squiggle, here.”

You placed your hands on your hips, feeling all fuzzy from the praise. “It’s a lamp. One I had in my apartment, way back on Earth. It was pretty ugly, but my parents had given it to me as a housewarming gift.”

Sientia lifted their looming head back up. “I didn’t know humans needed heat lamps. Should I ask one be imported?”

You laughed heartily, before taking a rest and explaining that no, you had not referred to a heat lamp.

The time to compete finally came. Sientia picked out a nice outfit for you to wear, settled you into the pouch, then headed out eagerly.

You knew you’d arrived when it became terribly noisy. Most of the Xenith remained in their heads, however other alien species that resided on the planet were chattering away.

You poked your head out of the pouch to watch where you were being taken. You were inside of an arena, which was surprisingly similar to arenas on Earth. The stands were chock-full. It was hard to distinguish what sort of other aliens were among the bleachers. All you could make out was a mix of pale Xenith, and various shades of lavender and baby’s breath blue.

The two of you checked in and were escorted to the first area. This space was within the bleachers. Instead of having the audience surrounding you, you were simply on camera for the first half of the contest. Later you would be taken back into the thick of it.

Sientia placed you carefully onto a pedestal as drones buzzed around everyone. They kept all companions at around Xenith chest level, as they stood on twos. Almost immediately you were surrounded by several of the other Xenith contestants, who were delighted to see a human.

A silvery Xenith focused on Sientia. “(You have a human?)”

“(Aw, might I hold them?)” asked a yellowish Xenith.

The third spoke your language. “Hello!”

Sientia huffed awkwardly and kept close. They seemed abashed.

“(Please don’t touch! This is [Y/N]. It’s their first competition, so do not frighten my dear companion!) [Y/N], are you well?”

You backed up and bumped into the hand of the yellow-tinted Xenith. With a start you leaped and stumbled back over to the side Sientia was closest to. “It’s just… wow. A lot of attention.”

“(Apologies. I attempted to adopt a human, but they continually were out. How did you receive this one?)” questioned the silver alien.

Sientia fidgeted. “(I farm, so I simply gave excess crop away early. This secured a spot to choose a human.)”

The yellow Xenith kept staring at you longingly. “(Ehmmm… I wanted one, too. You think ahead. Very smart.)”

Sientia wanted to get rid of them. “(I believe the judging is starting.)”

So the others ended up scurrying back to their own companions, but not before a couple more desirable glances were thrown down at you.

You sighed, grateful.

“It really is starting,” commented Sientia with surprise, as the judge came into the inner bleachers. “Brace yourself. The pedestal will shift.”

So. A physical and fashion check was first on the agenda. It was the part you had been dreading every day. You took a deep, calming breath.

Because so many sentient species were twelve feet and under, the judge had to be proportionate during this segment. Everyone was moved downwards, so that the small judge could come by. A drone slightly bigger than your head followed behind the no-nonsense alien, which you had no doubt was plastering all this upon the screens outside.

One by one, the contestants were- you shuttered- fondled. You didn’t know if that was a good or bad shutter, but you had butterflies in your stomach.

The judge, a seven foot tall, light blue alien that walked on the tips of its three-pronged feet, was very thorough. They would circle the contestant, watch the way they walked, judge their outfit, and then feel certain parts of the body over. Occasionally a contestant would lean in, as if dizzy, before the judge finished up, wrote something down, and then left to the next pedestal.

“Don’t be nervous,” comforted Sientia quietly, who had laid beside you. “Remember, we can forfeit at any time my pet. I will not let you stay if you change your mind.”

You smiled at them before being spooked by the sudden appearance of the judge. You hadn’t realized that the alien had been getting close.

The judge was very professional throughout most of the examination. Stoically, they watched you walk and jotted something down. Comments were mumbled in an sing-song alien tongue about your choice of outfit.

'Polka-dots, with plaid shorts?’ you imagined them saying.

Then the part that had you most nervous came. The alien felt your arms gently, slid a hand over to your chest and thumbed over the ribs. Were they counting them? They squished down where certain organs were along your body. Finally, the intrusive appendage cupped your cheek and pressed your upper lip out of the way. You instinctively bore your teeth and grimaced.

“Very good teeth. Unique human specimen,” spoke the strange alien in your language.

There was a sweet scent, like sugar, in the air. Your eyes fluttered and you found yourself relaxing. Suddenly you understood why it was some of the other contestants appeared to become dizzy. Whatever this alien was emitting smelled lovely.

The judge swiped a finger over your blunt human canines. “Always fascinated by Homo sapien teeth.”

They removed the hand and glanced over at Sientia, the air sack around their neck tinged pink. “You groom your human well,” they said in Sientia’s language.

“Thank you,” Sientia eyed the judge suspiciously.

You had no idea what they had said. The judge patted your cheek, quickly wrote a final thought down, then left. It almost made you sad to see them go. However, after a few minutes your head cleared. That was a weird experience. You straightened your back and awaited the second segment.

“Do you think I did alright?”

Sientia moved their head near. “Yes, you did wonderfully! I am certain. The judge sounded… much too pleased. Fae are simply like that, though.” They gave you an encouraging nuzzle.

You blushed and rubbed your hands over Sientia’s head. It was funny that you were supposedly the pet, yet you were the one who did most of the petting. You felt them physically purr.

After the first segment ended, contestants were directed one by one back into the main arena. The Xenith held their companions in their hand and were paraded around the edge. It was hard to keep your cool. You had to force yourself not to look down as you tried to keep balance.

This was all so overwhelming. It wasn’t nearly as loud as a stadium back on your home planet, but the quiet chatter did invade your thoughts. Being so high in the air, with all eyes and ears and words directed at you, started to make you terribly dizzy. But as you glanced over into the crowd, you found a familiar face.

“Look! It’s Antha!”

“Ehm,” hummed Sientia in response, who was finally allowed to come to a stop. “You see Antha?”

Antha wiggled their fingers. On top of their head stood Clarence, hardly more than a speck in the distance. But the little speck squirmed, and you just knew he was waving vigorously at the two of you.

Your spirits lifted again. You waved back, grinning. The support was very much needed, and Clarence’s presence reminded you of the true reason you’d decided to compete. You wanted to trust Sientia fully, as Clarence did Antha, and you wanted to make your master happy.

Sientia nodded their head in Antha’s direction. This almost made Sientia feel like they had before the mourning period; warm and fuzzy, like a healthy Xenith. They puffed up just a little more, antennae high and spread wide.

So, it was time for the talent competition to begin. You watched the flickering screens above the stadium as various individuals attempted to impress the intense, boring eyes of the judges.

There were four judges in total. One Xenith. The other three included a brawny, one-eyed biped, a large piebald covered in feathers, and the previous judge who had done the physical. They sat across the field, and hardly blinked as they jotted down notes and numbers on the performances before them.

A dark, four-armed alien with a flat face could throw a heavy metal ball across the entire field with ease. A five-foot, mousy alien could complete an agility course in under twenty seconds. A long and skinny serpent like alien could dance and twirl like a ribbon within the air. The crowd particularly liked the serpent, clicking and chattering at the graceful shapes made as she looped around.

You tried to still your heart. That was some tough competition, but you’d been practicing your art skills each and every day. You were certain you would please at least the Xenith judge. Maybe you’d win them over with your human 'cuteness,’ even if the painting didn’t elicit a major response. After all, some thought humans were endearing. If you fumbled, you’d play it off and try to look nothing short of adorable. Even if the voice in your head kept telling you that they should see you as an ugly species, that you yourself were ugly, you’d been proven wrong on multiple occasions.

Finally, it was your turn to shine.

“Are you ready?” asked Sientia quietly, with concern.

“As I’ll ever be.”

Sientia stepped further into the field, careful let you down, then removed your setup from the pouch on their chest. It was a large sheet of watercolor paper, nailed to a wooden board five feet wide and ten feet tall, which Sientia propped against their free wrist. Your act would consist of painting a certain someone while using their hand to raise and lower yourself along the canvas. A show of trust while also entertaining the crowd. A perfect act.

Two drones flew low, eyes watchful. You tied an apron on and stuffed your brushes into the front pockets. After picking up a closed container, you made meaningful eye contact with Sientia. They lifted you upon their hand, to which you opened and dumped the container down over the top of the paper. Gray tinted water dripped, soaking into the paper a quarter down.

The brushes were whipped out. Over the course of ten minutes you drove the wide tipped brushes into buckets of pre-mixed colors and swept them across the open plains. Deep cyan, made from an imported liquid watercolor, was your main shade.

You made four quick strokes, forming a ball with spikes coming from one end. One long thin strip vertical from that, though not touching. Then horizontally a fat, stocky, uneven line that was bigger at the end than tip. Two near perfect, wet cyan circles close to the bottom, both dripping towards the edges. You admired your work a second, already out of breath.

A few more blue splotches were added before you switched colors. A bright, watery pink mingled with the blues, mixing into purple in several areas. Embarrassingly, a large, unwanted splat splashed onto the paper, to which you blushed and pretended was on purpose. Then, before you knew it, you were adding the final touches in a gold leaf yellow.

Standing from a distance in Sientia’s hand, you turned your head this way and that, before giving a curt nod and deep bow.

“Tah-dah! It’s finished!”

Sientia let you down, and you were exhausted. Finishing a painting that large in just over ten minutes killed you. You popped your joints and looked hopefully over at the judges. Three of them were scribbling excitedly, while the Xenith was staring at the art. You didn’t know if that was good or bad. Eventually the giant titled their head down and gave their unknown input, too.

“You are so amazingly talented,” swooned Sientia, drawing your attention.

You smiled sheepishly, face very red. “Th-thank you. I… made it for you.”

Affectionate and surprised, Sientia wanted to cuddle you, but the two of you had to step back so the next contestant could work.

The rest of the aliens went by in a blur. You were simply too in your own head to pay hardly any attention. Over analyzing the minute body languages of the judge panel was not fun, and had you guessing- then guessing again- as to what your final score would be.

When the last out-of-breath contestant returned to their owner, the talent segment was done. All Xenith and pets were marched around the outer rim for a final lap, before returning to the inner stadium. Pets were placed back onto their pedestals to rest while the judges compiled their thoughts.

You sat and fidgeted quietly.

Sientia’s head teetered against the edge of the pedestal, cross-shaped eyes focused upon your nervous little form. “It is okay if we don’t win, my pet. Please remember. I’ve had so much fun today! It’s been a very, very, very long time since I’ve walked the circle and presented my companion before all. Do not fret so!”

That made you smile, if only a tidbit. “I know… I just can’t help but have nervous energy! If we won, that would make me sooo happy. It would make you so happy.”

The alien’s face emoted more densely than you’d ever seen before. Their eyes dilated, antennae curled, and they put on a wide, open grin. The smile was added for you, but still. Such emotion.

“I was right to choose you, [Y/N]. You are perfect.”

You nearly cried. Who in your life ever called you perfect? Not your first partner, nor your last. Most certainly not your parents or 'good’ aunt. Nobody was perfect in this world or the next, but the sheer fact someone was inspired enough to utter something so romantic made your heart flutter. You opened your mouth to even attempt a reply, but a noise chimed and echoed through the spacious corridor, flinging everyone around into silence.

A winner had been decided.

You stood and swallowed, hard.

Upon the elongated screens high, high on the metallic walls, the various aliens of the panel chatted softly. The same footage was being aired on enormous screens above the stadium, so everyone was watching in anticipation along with the contestants.

The four judge panel went through each contestant’s score briefly, citing anatomy and subjective thoughts on the talent segment. As they spoke in the local Xenith tongue, recordings of the contestants and their owners were played. You could not understand the talk at all, yet your eyes stayed glued to the video.

You saw yourself. Did your painting really look that bad on screen? 'Stay optimistic,’ you chanted to yourself inwardly. 'The Xenith like abstract art.’

You were given a number score of 68 out of 100. A sigh of relief. That wasn’t totally awful. So far, the scores ranged from 22 through 65, meaning you were somehow ahead. But there were still seven more scores to reveal.

Burning eyes stared down the screens, counting scores. 43, 50, and there it was, 71.

You lost.

Your legs were weak. You found yourself on knees, not even bothering to watch the rest of the judgment. Sientia had turned attention to you as soon as the higher score had been announced.

“Are you okay?” asked Sientia gently.

You sighed and ran a hand through your hair. “Yeah, I guess. Disappointed. Trying not to cry, but okay.”

They paused in thought. Sientia was truly not put off by the results. If only you could hear their telepathic emotions, they could send a wave of comfort and compassion your way. Instead, they had to settle for the physical and verbal. That was fine, too.

You felt something boop your head and flinched. A quick glance up revealed that one of Sientia’s longer antennae had touched you, from where the giant was tilting their head down. It patted you, unsure, the other poking you carefully in the face. It was like a dog coming up to sniff you. Considering the antennae were the most sensitive part of any Xenith, this was perhaps not far off.

“I know you’re trying to comfort me,” you said. “and it makes me happy, but… I don’t think I’ll be totally over this for a few days.”

“When we get home, I will make you your favorite food, and we can put on one of the imported Earth medias you like so much. Will this sooth?”

You couldn’t help the tug at your lips. “Hmmm… that is… acceptable. Thank you. So, who won?”

Out of 15 contestants, you ranked number 8. That was nearly in the dead center. The winner, with a score of 100 (as all contest winners are scored 100), was the four-armed alien who’d thrown the metal ball across the field. You supposed you couldn’t feel too bad about losing to an act like that. After all, even you had been impressed by that contestant’s superior show of strength.

There may have been resentment in your heart, as if you could have somehow done better, but at least Sientia did not blink twice at the results. To be human was to be rampant with emotion, so you could not help but feel a little upset at losing your first competition. But in the end, it was Sientia’s judgment that mattered. And Sientia was overjoyed just to spend time with you doing something they loved. That was something you would simply have to learn, especially if you decided to partake in more pet shows.

The two of you were given your prize, then met up with Antha and Clarence before leaving.

Antha lifted and pressed their knuckle pads to the ground, with Clarence balancing stupendously on their head. “(The two of you looked very good on the field!)”

If a Xenith could blush, Sientia would have. Instead, their antennae twirled bashfully. “(Thank you, friend. [Y/N] did well. I am so very much proud of them.)”

“And how do you feel, companion [Y/N?]”

You were still being carried in Sientia’s hand. You pursed your lips and shrugged. “Disappointed.”

Antha lowered their head closer, as Clarence wanted to comment.

The other human waved and beamed. “Hey, you did super great for your first competition! I’ve been in a few and man, let me tell you… the first time I tripped in front of the whole stadium. Over my own feet, too. Don’t worry so much, you did just fine!”

You couldn’t help but smile awkwardly, a little embarrassed “Thanks, Clarence.”

On the way home, you fulfilled your dream of riding at the top of Sientia’s flat head. Your master had been reluctant and afraid that you would get anxious, but you were adamant. One arm looped tightly around an antenna, the other fiddled with a tiny red participation ribbon, which was your only prize.

“Pet?”

You hummed.

“I’ve thought to ask. You say you painted for me. But, ehm, what have you painted?”

It took a moment to decipher the question. “Oh! Well,” you blushed. “I was trying to paint you! I know it didn’t come out exactly how I expected… that I could have done b-better to impress the judges-”

“Eh! No more talk of judges! I will hang it upon my wall above my nest. Look, we are home.”

Home was lamp-lit and unfit for a human to wander the rooms wide as a veldt, but it was home. The house that you grew up in had never felt like home, nor did the apartment you huddled in on Earth. But this strange, empty cube in the suburbs of the Xenith home world? It had begun to feel like home more so than any sad, brick building every did. You left Earth months ago, and never once began to regret that decision.

Sientia, you master and friend, spoke to you candidly and with compassion. They clothed you lovingly in lavish things, smoothed your anxieties like an iron, and wanted nothing more than to spend as much time as possible with you. They loved you so much that they wanted to lift you high in their palm, to put you in the eye of buzzing drones and chattering aliens.

Even during a time that Sientia was still recovering from loss, they wanted to badly to move forward. You think that they did. You could hear it in their voice now, whenever they spoke sweetly to you, that they knew Inridd'h was smiling. Before the competition, when you were still practicing your abstract thinking, there was a glint in Sientia’s six eyes. It filled them with comfort to watch you work so hard, and with such great passion.

You loved the miniature house Sientia built for you, and the surrounding areas Sientia themselves lived in. But more than anything, you loved Sientia. Sientia was what made the house a home. You prayed you could stay as long as possible, because at this point, you had no intention of leaving.

So, when they two of you returned home, you ate a big dinner, popped in a human movie, and curled up on their nest together. You fell asleep atop their head with a full belly and a healing heart.

EPILOGUE

Sientia held you close to their body. You could feel warm air rising from the nostrils of their chest, as you wobbled and balanced close to their shimmering blue skin.

“Now, you must stay close. Some species may swoop low and pick you up if you move too far. It is perhaps safer to remain in my hand, at first.”

You nodded, apprehensive but excited.

It had been half a year since you decided to become the pet of the great alien species, the Xenith. But you’d yet to experience the awe of being in close quarters with your master’s life work; their livestock. They’d kept you distant from their crop, as giant bugs were most certainly to be predators to little humans. You could be a tasty, blood-filled morsel. The scenario was as tense as introducing the pet chicken to a new barn cat.

You shielded your eyes as they opened the door to a blistering glass greenhouse. After a moment of wiping away involuntary tears, you were able to see again.

“Woooah,” you gasped.

To Sientia this was a large terrarium, but to you it was an expansive jungle. Tall yellow grass sprouted all around, circling the dirt and clays below. Alien ferns spread their fleshy leaves and fronds, sprinkling the air with heavenly scents. A myriad of neon blossoms bloomed among the plants and grasses, dotting it all with pinks, yellows, and whites. You’d never seen anything like this before. Not even at the zoo.

“Is this what all your grasslands look like, out in the wild?”

Sientia physically rumbled. You’d come to distinguish their vibrations and grunts from one another by now, and could see that they found your question funny.

“Some. I try to keep my crop happy.”

“Sooo.. where are all the gross bugs?” you asked, peeking over the side of their palm.

Sientia sat. “Here is one, in the grass.”

With their free hand they plucked the animal right out of hiding. It squeaked and stirred, squirming in surprise. It was much bigger than you, but still smaller than Sientia’s hand. You were used to seeing your master chomp down on these creatures, but they looked so much bigger when wriggling.

Sientia gently set the insect down into their other palm, so the two of you could meet up close. However, they kept a firm finger to the bug’s back, to keep it in place.

It’s stubby, fat antennae twitched and flickered, prickly legs struggling to pull itself out from the weight on its back. Eventually it was still.

“Go on. It’s safe. This is Henhil, you may tell from the markings against the back and legs. This one’s first clutch hatched a few days ago, so we shall not keep her long. You hear this, Henhil?”

Henhil’s mouth parts chewed idly.

“Wow,” you whispered, fascinated.

They really did just… look like giant over sized Earth arthropods. This type seemed like a cross between a fat beetle and a mantas. Her body was covered in a shiny black, and her wings, legs, and face were lined with silver. Two stripes of green cut through the silver on each of her eight legs. Bugs still freaked you out, but this was truly an amazing opportunity. What Earthling got to boast getting up close and personal with Permian era insects?

“She’s very pretty.”

Henhil started to wriggle again, her energy returning. You stumbled away, mindful of the mouth, as Sientia went ahead and plopped her back into place.

“On, then. Back to your children. Is this what you were expecting [Y/N?]”

You sat down, the heat exhausting you and making you sweat like a pig. “Well, it’s definitely something you’d like to do. I mean, raising bugs.”

“Then you think you would truly like to utilize such animals in a future competition?”

In the excitement you’d nearly forgotten the real reason Sientia was introducing the bugs to you at all. You’d been in two competitions now, and had won neither. Somehow, the concept of horseback riding continued to come up. Sientia was fascinated by the horse. There were no horses imported off planet, which was a shame. The next best thing where Sientia’s crop of livestock.

The insects were horse sized, give or take. Some had a body shape well off enough to accommodate a way of riding comfortably. Of course, they were being bred and raised to eat. Not ridden. But that didn’t mean that some of the younger one’s couldn’t be coaxed into allowing a human rider onto their backs. Henhil’s new clutch was likely a good place to start.

So, did you think you’d be able to get over your squeamishness and ride a big ol’ bug for the sake of winning? Absolutely. Winning wasn’t everything, but it would sure feel great to win. Or, if not win, to at least get second place. You know it would delight Sientia.

“I think I’d like to try. Maybe tomorrow, when you show me her mate, we can take a peek at the babies too?” you shuttered. “Are they like… grubs?”

The translator did not translate 'grub’ very well, but Sientia got the gist.

“Somewhat. Let’s go inside, you appear over exerted.”

Sientia brought you to their face and nestled you gently as you gave a smooch on their 'nose.’ Then, they stood and absconded from the sweltering greenhouse.

[rosesareviolentlyread]

Prelude: These Violent Delights Have Violent Ends

First post on whump and of course I decide to take my truly darkest plot and use it. I’m not sure where this is on the dark scale for this community, but I mean I guess beware?  CW: Self-harm, possibly implied suicide attempt, Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy, box boy setting, pet whump setting, modern slavery, domestic abuse, parental abuse, self-whump, caretaker as whumper

Thanks to @ashintheairlikesnow​ for both inspiring me and also letting me use Karen Renford, who may make an appearance in another piece with Ward about his particular taste in pets. “Amen, amen. But come what sorrow can,

It cannot countervail the exchange of joy

That one short minute gives me in her sight.

Do thou but close our hands with holy words,

Then love-devouring death do what he dare;

It is enough I may but -”

DING-DING-DING-DONG….DONG-DING-DING-DONG

The nine-chimed tune interrupts the man’s gravely reading of Shakespeare, causing him to blink, squinting in the fading light of the fireplace at the old grandfather clock that has moved on to loud BONGS to state the late hour.

Pulling off his glasses, the old man rubs at an eye “Oh my, is it already ten? Well, it’s best off to bed for both of us. We can pick up tomorrow” 

In the opposite plush leather armchair, a blonde girl blinks herself awake. Only a round, soft face is visible beneath a warm-knit blanket that cocoons her against the chair like a fly in a spider’s web.

“But Mr. Richard we were ju-u-u-st getting to the good part” Though she pouts her lip, tilting her head slightly with wide eyes to get her way, a yawn betrays her own exhaustion. 

“We can continue tomorrow, Juliet. I know you’ve memorized it already anyways. Now why don’t you run along to bed, pet? I’ve had Anita put on the heavy down comforter, we don’t want you catching another cold. I’ll be up in a minute” The man’s blue eyes drift fondly to the girl, snuggled close by the fire.

 Outside the window, soft snowfall signaled the coming of winter for his mountain home. He’d originally intended for them to seek warmer weather, perhaps in the villa in Italy. It was better for Juliet’s health, but seeing the girl enjoy winter was something they’d been unable to do for a while. With luck, she’d stay healthy enough they could enjoy it for a little longer. 

“Yes, Mr. Richard. Goodnight” With a tired smile, she wraps the overly large blanket around herself like a cloak, looking all the part a child playing dress-up. Warm lips press to the top of his white-haired head, small arms gently embracing him as well as they could from behind the large chair. With practiced ease, he rubs a warm circle on the back of one slender hand, eliciting a slight purr from the girl. And then she was gone, drifting through the house in her makeshift white cloak like a ghost. 

Richard Ward sat for a minute enjoying the fire. He was a lucky man. To have such a wonderful pet, who, while frail, enjoyed every moment of his presence. Who was devoted to every caring touch. The hours of reading to her in fevered delirium, to wheeling her in the garden when her legs refused to work, to petting her head softly when pain made sleep impossible. 

Richard Ward had learned to cherish the bad and the good in life. In business he’d learned to find opportunity in every situation. Unfortunately, it took the death of his own son  for him to take that moment into his personal life.  But now, with Juliet, he cherished the times in health as well as sickness. 

Now, he lived for every moment, every pain and pleasure, intertwined. With the fortune he’d amassed he could do right by his Juliet, by the world. He’d take care of Juliet forever, tomorrow and tomorrow and tomorrow as the Bard said. 

But first, he had to wait for tomorrow, and Richard Ward didn’t think five more minutes by the fire could hurt its pace. 

So he closed his eyes, enjoying the warmth of fire, happiness, and family, content with his life. 

And woke no more. 

----

In the middle of the night, some phantom pain bolts Juliet upright, covered in her own sweat. The blood of her heart pounds hot in her ears. Nightmares of fear and pain were common in her life, but so was their instant remedy: Mr. Richard. 

So wrapped in the same blanket as earlier, she pads down the hall, letting the warm glow of lights made to look like flickering candles illuminate  her way. 

“M-mr. Richard?” Her eyes feel wet with automatic tears, lip and voice trembling with an unpracticed, inherent ease. Enough to show fear, but not enough to look ugly. She knew she looked ugly when she cried. 

The old oak door to his room creaks open, revealing the same soft flickering light by an empty four-poster bed. With a sigh, fear almost forgotten, she heads for the grand stairs, back to the drawing room. Her silly old man had probably fallen asleep in his chair again. But that was alright. 

Maybe if she was good, if she made up a convincing nightmare, he’d keep reading to her until she fell asleep. Would rub the sore spots she could never tell if were real or imagined any more. The mere thought brought a smile to her face, a quick pace to her light steps. 

But when she entered the room, she found no warmth. The fire had died out into crumbling embers, letting a chill in through the chimney. Yet even its breeze that threatened to freeze her bones didn’t seem to be able to move the suffocating stillness. She felt it creep into her veins, wrong, as she fearfully walked over to Mr. Richard, sat still in the chair facing the only dying light. 

But her eyes softened to see his sleeping face, book open in his lap with eyeglasses set in the spine. The moonlight highlighted his pale, wrinkled face, but it was one she loved. One that took care of her, no matter how much trouble she was. 

Gently she placed a kiss to his forehead to wake him, already imagining his warm touch on her aching limbs-

Only to be met with the same ice in her veins. With the same stillness that threatened to stop her chest. 

“M-Mr. Richard?” She wobbled out, voice honest, not practiced. Truly imperfect, instead of perfectedly so. 

But his body didn’t move. 

So she touched his shoulder. And then grabbed it. And then shook it. 

But his body didn’t move. 

Juliet felt her breath come in small gasps, like when she was sick. But she wasn’t sick, was she? Was this a bad dream? No. Because Mr. Richard woke her from bad dreams but now he wouldn’t wake up. 

No, she just couldn’t wake him, because everything was fine. When everything was fine, Mr. Richard was sad, a kind of slow sad where the world felt too perfectly wrong, too boring. So she just had to make it wrong to make everything perfect again. 

So Juliet did what she’d been trained to do. She reached for the book, for the crisp page, and quickly slid her finger along it until sharp pain and blood dripped warmly from the edge. 

A whimper from her throat, and she held the wrist as more and more blood, impossibly warm from how cold she felt ran almost black in the barely light down her wrist. 

“Mr. Richard, I cut myself, c-can you kiss it better?” Honey voiced, thick, almost saccharine but something felt wrong. Everything felt wrong, her voice couldn’t be right. 

But his body didn’t move. 

So she pressed the bloodied finger to his lips, even as touching them threatened a shiver through her body. 

“See Mr. Richard? It hurts”

But his body didn’t move. 

With a whimper, she tried to think. Why wasn’t it working? He always came when she was hurt.

But sometimes, if it wasn’t enough, he didn’t come. 

Quickly, Juliet crossed to the small table for Mr. Richard’s drinks, grabbing the small knife he used to make the pretty orange twists she liked in hers. 

Back in front of it, in front of the still closed eyelids, she slid the knife along her palm, flinching with practice at too familiar pain. Making the high, pained sound, that one she never knew if was real or not anymore. 

His body didn’t move. 

Juliet felt tears, real tears prick at her eyes. Why wasn’t it good enough? Why wouldn’t he help her? 

She did everything right so he’d help her, so she’d get the caring touches. Like they’d taught her at the Facility. When she was sick in winter, she’d walk outside at night without clothes to stay sick. 

She’d rub dirt in wounds. She’d trip down stairs, she’d slam her hand in doors, she’d burn herself on the oven.

And when Mr. Richard was bored with what she could try, he often helped her. Because sometimes he’d give her medicine and she’d wake up and couldn’t move her legs for days. Sometimes she’d feel sick to her stomach from a drink he’d give her, until she puked for hours.

That’s it. He just wanted her to try harder. To be a good girl and go back to doing it all herself. She had to earn his caring touch. And Juliet could do that. 

Determined, she climbed the two-story staircase in the entrance hall, heart thumping. This would work, and Mr. Richard would wake up, and he’d take care of her. He’d hand feed her soup again, and gently brush her hair. He’d read her Shakespeare until she fell asleep, and bring treats from his business partners who wished her a speedy recovery. Everything would be fine. 

So why was she crying? 

With tears in her eyes, Juliet climbed the barrister, staring down at the black marble floor far below, almost swallowed in darkness. The blanket fell to the floor, a pile like pale bones in a pit. 

She pushed off, and her world exploded into painful darkness as the scream was ripped from her throat. 

--

‘Anita’ wasn’t sure how much of this she could take. Richard Ward was on the board of WRU, and she was so, so, so close to figuring out where the sick old man kept some of the emails, the dealings, the proof of WRU’s real workings. With his tech empire, they suspected Ward helped them target potential ‘candidates’. Helped them recruit and hire handlers with the appropriate mentality off the dark web. It was enough potential dirt for them to make real progress in the Pet-Lib movement. If only she could figure out where he kept it. 

And it’d been an easy enough job. A boring one, honestly, as she cleaned the house under the flimsy false identity of an illegal immigrant the man had barely bothered to check. She even got enough money to live on and give a fat check to the safe houses from it, damn rich bastard. 

But she was ready to tell them, tell Tara, she couldn’t do it anymore. Couldn’t watch this fucker and his pet, whatever he’d made the poor girl into. 

At first, she’d thought it was true, that he’d just gotten some pet with a lot of health issues. 

But then she’d seen the girl purposefully trip, break fingers, grab a burning hot plate straight from the oven. Seen her do those things without wincing and then let the tears fall so perfectly. Fall into his touch, the touch and care that made the old man beam.

She’d even found the goddamn name for it. Munchausen Syndrome by Proxy. Pleasure at taking care of someone so much that you cause them pain, make them to get sick, just to make them better yourself.

Richard Ward ordered a pet that would hurt itself for his touch, for his care. They’d turned a girl into some sick pain robot, and Mia didn’t even want to think how. She could barely watch now, wondering how he manufactured the illness and pain Juliet took with thankful smile, for the chance that he’d be kind. 

Figures there’d be someone somehow as fucked up as Karen Renford in WRU. 

So yeah, Mia was ready to quit being ‘Anita’, because even if she knew what she was doing could help kids from not becoming like Juliet, she wasn’t sure how much she could take watching. 

It was with this thought that Mia started and ended each day, determined to quit the day after tomorrow if she couldn’t find the files. 

Unlocking the door, Mia felt the similar tug of dread, ran through the same conversation Tara had taught her to help her get through when these undercover missions were hard. When she couldn’t just grab a pet and run like she wanted.

But something felt...off. ‘Anita’ was always first to arrive, to open the obscene curtains, to transform the vintage fashioned home from night to day. She was used to the entrance being cold, the fires being out. Weird guy also had a fetish for the life of antiquity, but Anita had gotten used to it. But today, the coldness seemed to seep into her bones. 

Probably should’ve just brought another sweater she thought as she walked through the service entrance, opening curtains as she went. 

Kitchen, dining room, tea room, sitting room. It was actually pretty satisfying to watch the light suddenly dance in, dim streaks through trees in the early morning. 

Or at least it was until she saw it fall on the body of Richard Ward, causing her to jump back, nearly  knocking over probably worth more than she’d make in her entire life. 

“Oh, Mr. Ward! I didn’t see you there.” Her heart threatened to flutter out of her chest, so much so that she’d almost forgotten her ‘accent’. She hoped he wouldn’t notice. 

But there was no response. 

Cautiously, Mia walked over, touching the old man’s shoulder to gently wake him.

It was stiff, cold. Dead. 

The fucker was dead. Pale as a ghost except for the tiny smear of dried blood on his face. 

The same dried, dark brown blood  that was dripped over his body, onto the book, onto the carpet, on the table holding the bar cart’s knife coated in the same. Dried blood. 

Quietly, Mia picked up the knife, the only weapon in reach. Nothing else was out of place, and as much as she wished it was, the blood didn’t seem to be Ward’s.

She tiptoed out of the room, following the dripped and dried bloody path into the entrance way. By the ridiculously ostentatious staircase, under the overhang, was a small...lump. Squinting her eyes in the dim entrance way, Mia could make out what looked like an slender arm, a head of blonde-

f u c k, fuck fuckFuckFUCK

The hardest thing about this job had been keeping her potty mouth to herself and playing the part of some Downton Abbey-esque servant in keeping with the man’s antiquated tastes. But upon seeing the small body, twisted at odd angles beneath the second floor overhang, her gut told her this job deserved every version of fuck imaginable. 

Scrambling over to the small girl Mia knelt down, hands shaking as she felt around the throat for a pulse that wasn’t the one banging in her ears. It took a minute of pressing, of forcing herself to breathe dammit before she found it, weak, but definitely there. 

Gently, so gently so as to not jostle her neck or head, Mia stroked a hand over Juliet’s brow, the way she’d seen Ward do countless times when the girl was sick. Mia tried to stop trembling, to stop thinking about how maybe if she’d told Tara about Ward, about his taste in pets, they would’ve focused on rescuing Juliet instead.

 If Mia hadn’t been determined to hide the real Ward so they could have their cake and eat it too. 

“C’mon baby girl, wake up for me. I’m sorry, I’m so sorry, please, fuck, please wake up” The words fell, soft and pleading from her lips. 

Hazy blue-grey eyes blinked up at her, slow, glassy with pain. The body attempted to shift, only to whimper with pain, real pain. Not the fake whimper Mia had learned, but something deep and animalistic in her throat that reminded Mia more of a street dog than a person.

“There you are. It’s ok, you’re ok” She tried to keep her voice calm, gentle. To not let her hand shake as she thanked whatever god there was in this fucked up world that the girl hadn’t lost too much blood, hadn’t completely cracked her head open, even if her legs looked like snapped twigs. 

After a few moments of mumbled words met by calm shushing noises from Mia, Juliet finally strangled out “‘Nita, why din’t Mr. Richard wake up?” 

Mia paused, upon hearing the slurred, pained words. This wasn’t an accident. Juliet had done this to wake him up. Because the man had a second-sense for any pain in his vicinity. Even if he was a demon, not even the call of his previous pet’s pain was enough to bring his sadistic ass back from hell. Thank God.

A whimper, and Mia was immediately pulled back from her thoughts, petting the girl’s head. Because it didn’t matter where that sick fuck was. He was dead, Mia hadn’t found out where he kept his things, and she had only a few hours before other servants got here. Only a few hours to do something right on this mission.

“Shh, it’s ok. I’m gonna get you help ok? You’re gonna be ok”

Reaching into her uniform, Mia groped for the burner phone constantly pressed against her chest. At least bras were useful for hiding things, as much as she hated them. She breathed through her nose, steadying her breath and hoping questions could wait as she pressed the number.

“Tara? Yeah, I need an evac for me and a pet at Ward’s yesterday.”

Because this was Mia’s fault, because she waited for tomorrow’s petty pace to paint her a yesterday lighted fool.

[bednbiscuits]

7 Best Tips from Dog Hotel in Bahrain that Help Your Dog Stay Happy

Enjoy the precious moments of your life with your beloved puppy with the best recommendations and tips from a boutique dog hotel in Bahrain. Learn about taking care of your dog through a dog grooming center in Bahrain and teaching new tricks at a professional dog trainer in Bahrain. Find certified kennels in Bahrain for a perfect stay for your puppy while you are away. A pet activity dog hotel in Bahrain like Bed n Biscuits would definitely be the right happy place for your dog to have lots and lots of fun. Let's dive right into the recommendations from Bed n Biscuits.

Groom your dog for complete health and hygiene During the pandemic, with the dog grooming spas and facilities being temporarily closed, many dog grooming experts started freelance services for your little furry friends. Getting started with health and hygiene is a part of the grooming routine. This will take care of any matted fur coat, ticks and lice, skin infections, rashes, burns and improve the overall aesthetic appeal. Dogs are prone to infections in ear and private parts if not addressed with care. The paw padding and nails start hurting when their nails are too long. The fur coat goes into their eyes hampering their visibility. In these conditions, cleaning the fur coat with a brush, bathing them with shampoo, cleaning ears, paws and sanitary areas and finally drying them up becomes important. Arrive at one of the best dog grooming centers in Bahrain and achieve complete health and hygiene. Dog grooming also helps elevate the confidence and personality of your puppy. Book an appointment now!

Teach your old dog new tricks with care Getting injuries while teaching your puppy or dog new tricks is the last resort. There are valuable sources of information on how to train your dog, but if you don’t carry that patience and your dog is becoming excessively aggressive, there is no harm in taking help from professional dog trainers in Bahrain at Bed n Biscuits. We offer multiple learning programs for all kinds of dogs. Pet boarding to get your dog back in discipline is necessary from time to time if your dog is suffering from anxiety and depression. Their holistic approach to dog care will surely make your dog healthy and happy.

Get things done while your fur ball is retreating at a pet hotel If you would like to take a day off visiting your family or have planned to get guests over, there is a time you feel that you are possibly not giving the attention to your pet dog as needed. In such cases, a dog hotel in Bahrain helps your dog make new friends, play and have fun. They offer services like grooming and training being certified kennels in Bahrain. Moreover, they can actually help you monitor your dog’s behaviour in various social settings through expert care.

Take time to love your dog and it will love you back Getting your dog to love you back is a rewarding experience. Especially in the hard times when there are bad things happening, a dog becomes your saviour. A compassionate look at your dog everyday takes away your stress and gives you new energy to carry out work and nurture your relationships with your dog and family members.

Inactivity or an idle dog’s brain is a devil’s workshop Keeping your dog lonely and lack of physical activity can take a toll on the mental health of your dog. Their separation anxiety makes them aggressive and it is as good as an idle dog’s brain is a devil’s workshop. They tend to get aggressive to that stage that they will shatter everything that comes in their way. This includes cushions, mattresses, soft toys, pillows, rugs and carpets. They tear them all. Be with your lovely dog and keep them away from any stress and anxiety. If it is not possible, sending them to trusted caregivers like professional dog trainers in Bahrain or even a spa treatment at a dog hotel in Bahrain would suffice.

Learning is forever for humans and dogs both To nurture the relationship with your dog, plan activities, travel and have fun together. New experience provides your dog a new life and takes your relationship with your dog to the next level. Be it learning to dance together, swimming or getting dressed, humans and dogs make a distinct bond of loyalty over a period of time.

Be a proud pet parent with the best services for your dog to stay happy. Enquire with Bed n Biscuits today!

For More Details

https://www.bednbiscuits.net/

[bloojayoolie]

Being Alone, Benadryl, and Bones: A Social Butterfly, Playful Lad, Adorable Dumpling & Affectionate Babe Ceve MAXX ID# 47064 1 yr old and 68 adorable lbs Waiting for you @ Manhattan Animal Care Center INTAKE DATE: 07-17-2019 ADOPTED AS A PUPPY AND RETURNED JUST A FEW MONTHS LATER - MAXX IS STILL JUST THE CUTEST DUMPLING and SOCIAL BUTTERFLY! WHAT IS NOT TO LOVE ABOUT MAXX? ** A $500 stipend will be offered to the New Hope partner that pulls Maxx 47064. Please note that in order to qualify for the stipend, the animal cannot go to a boarding facility. ** A volunteer writes: MAXX is an adorable little big guy, just a plump baby at 1 year of age! He is so cute, tumbling down the yard, all excited, his mouth open, wagging his tail, flopping his ears and running after a ball. A silly and naive pup, full of expectations and belief that life is a huge bowl of fun! Maxx loves company: he calls for attention, lands on laps with his giant paws, licks faces, gives standing hugs and kisses, mouths gently and plays with the leash. Forgive me, forgive me, I am just a little one! Of course, who would be upset at you, you are so endearing! Maxx does sit on command, takes treats gently and seems to like very much other dogs, in particular the little ones. Well, he lived with a pretty ShihTzu girl and just adored her! What's not to love and like about Maxx? He is the cutest dumpling, a social butterfly, a playful lad, an affectionate babe and he loves other dogs! In a nutshell, Maxx is a great young pooch who will make your life lively, fun and sweet! Ask to meet Maxx at the Manhattan Care Center. They so want to be yours! MY MOVIES: Current Stay: Bella and Maxx in Playgroup https://youtu.be/rdiTVcbMt_o First Stay: Endearing puppy Maxx https://youtu.be/RpMwiMF0XKk MAXX, ID# 47064 1 yr old, 68.8 lbs Manhattan Animal Care Center Large Mixed Breed Cross, White / Brown Brindle Neutered Male, Owner Surrender Reason: owner surrender due to personal circumstances Shelter Assessment Rating: LEVEL 1 No young children (under 5) Medical Behavior Rating: BEHAVIOR NOTES Means of Surrender: 7/17/2019, Owner surrender, second stay in the care center (See original profile from first stay) SAFER ASSESSMENT: Date of assessment: 17-Jul-2019 Summary: Leash Walking Strength and pulling: Moderate Reactivity to humans: None Reactivity to dogs: None Leash walking comments: Sociability Loose in room (15-20 seconds): Highly social Call over: Approaches readily, soft, active Sociability comments: Handling Soft handling: Seeks contact, loose, jumping up Exuberant handling: Seeks contact, loose, jumping up Handling comments: Arousal Jog: Follows, loose Arousal comments: Knock Knock Comments: No interest Toy Toy comments: Minimal interest PLAYGROUP NOTES - DOG TO DOG SUMMARIES: SECOND STAY: 7/19/19: When introduced off leash to a female dog, Maxx engages in bouncy play. 7/20: Maxx greets politely but mostly displays anxious behavior, barking and seeking handler attention. FIRST STAY: 11/13/18: When introduced off leash to dogs, Maxx engages in soft play. INTAKE BEHAVIOR: Date of intake: 12-Nov-2018 Summary: Loose body, allowed handling, jumped up socially MEDICAL BEHAVIOR: Date of initial: 12-Nov-2018 Summary: Active, allowed handling ENERGY LEVEL: Maxx is described as having a very high level of activity. He is a young, enthusiastic, social dog who will need daily mental and physical activity to keep him engaged and exercised. We recommend long-lasting chews, food puzzles, and hide-and-seek games, in additional to physical exercise, to positively direct his energy and enthusiasm. BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION: Level 1 Behavior Asilomar H - Healthy Recommendations: No young children (under 5) Recommendations comments: No young children (under 5): Due to Maxx's overall exuberance, we feel he may be best set up to succeed in a home without young children at this time. Potential challenges: Basic manners/poor impulse control Potential challenges comments: Basic manners/poor impulse control: Maxx jumps up a lot in a social manner. It is recommended that default behaviors such as "Leave it", "Sit/Stay", "Down" are reinforced to substitute any frustration and teach him to control his impulses instead of simply reacting; proper management is also advised. Force-free, reward based training only is recommended MEDICAL EXAM NOTES 18-Jul-2019 Progress Exam HAD MALESAB BATH 18-Jul-2019 DVM Intake Exam Estimated age:1-2y Microchip noted on Intake? yes History : owner surrender due to personal circumstances Subjective: BAR Observed Behavior -Wagging tail and jumping on everyone in room. Allowed all handling with wiggly backside. Evidence of Cruelty seen - no Evidence of Trauma seen - no Objective T = P =wnl R =wnl BCS 6/9 EENT: Eyes clear, ears clean, no nasal or ocular discharge noted Oral Exam: mild dental tartar, dental disease stage 0/4 PLN: No enlargements noted H/L: NSR, NMA, Lungs clear, eupnic ABD: Non painful, no masses palpated U/G: male neutered MSI: Ambulatory x 4, generalized partial alopecia, crusts and pustules, no masses noted CNS: Mentation appropriate - no signs of neurologic abnormalities Rectal: normal external Assessment: generalized demodicosis overweight Prognosis: good Plan: dose afoxolaner for weight simplicef 200mg 1 sid x7d recheck skin in 4 weeks SURGERY: neutered -------------------------------------------------------- NOTES FIRST STAY / Intake: November 2018 MAXX, ID# 47064, 7 mos old, xx lbs, Manhattan Animal Care Center, Large Mixed Breed Cross, White / Brown Brindle Male, Owner Surrender Reason: Shelter Assessment Rating: Medical Behavior Rating: CAME IN WITH: Paris 47065 (small female dog, Maxx and Paris were very bonded and loved each other. Sadly they were adopted to different homes - Paris is still adopted.) OWNER SURRENDER NOTES 2018: Maxx came in to our facilities as an owner surrender due to his owners both recently having big surgeries that have severely inhibited their capabilities to care for Maxx and Paris 47065. Maxx is a white and brown brindle large mixed breed neutered male who is 7 months old. His previous owners had him since he was about 30 days old and got him six months ago. He previously lived with 2 adults. Around strangers, Maxx is friendly and outgoing. He will play excitedly with adults. Maxx has been around children ages 2 and 15 years old, respectively. Around them, he is relaxed, respectful, and playful. He will play exuberantly with children. Maxx has never been around cats before. Maxx has no resource guarding behaviors. He has never bitten another animal or human. He is housetrained and his previous owenr describes his energy level as very high. Other Notes: Paris has also lived with birds and she was described as getting along peacefully with them. Maxx is not bothered if held or restrained, if disturbed while sleeping or resting, or if given a bath. Maxx will allow his nails to be trimmed and to be brushed. He is friendly towards strangers that approach his family and he will bark if he hears someone in the hallway. Has this dog ever had any medical issues? Yes Medical Notes: Maxx currently presents signs of an allergy. After going to the vet once, a diagnosis was not able to be reached. For a New Family to Know Maxx is described as being friendly, affectionate, playful, pushy, and excitable. He likes to follow you around when you are home but will also stay away if you tell him to stay in one part of the room. He likes to play with bones. He does not play any games. He has been kept indoors only. He slept in a dog bed that was located in the living room. He was fed one can of wet food in the morning and one at night with dry food in between. He also ate chicken and vegetables. He prefers the small bite variety of dry food. He is very house trained and does not have accidents. He will use the bathroom on any surface outside, as well as on wee wee pads. When left home alone, he is well behaved. He has never been left alone in a yard. He has been crate trained and will do well for 1-2 hours. He knows the command sit. Due to both owners' declining health, he has not been walked outside as often as of late. He pulls very hard on the leash. His favorite thing to do is play with Paris 47065. The owners' favorite things about Maxx are how active, close to his owner he is, and how loving and affectionate he is. INTAKE BEHAVIOR - DATE OF INTAKE: Upon intake, Maxx was very energetic and often leapt up at counselors and other staff. He was very upset when separated from Paris 47065 and began to whine and howl. He had a loose, wiggly body and a wagging tail. He allowed all handling including collaring, scanning for a microchip, and taking a photograph. BEHAVIOR NOTES Means of surrender (length of time in previous home): Owner Surrender, 1st stay in the care center Previously lived with: Adults Behavior toward strangers: Friendly and outgoing Resource guarding: None reported Bite history: None reported Housetrained: Yes Energy level/descriptors: Maxx is described as friendly, affectionate, playful, pushy, and excitable with a very high level of activity. MEDICAL EXAM NOTES 12-Nov-2018 DVM Intake Exam Estimated age: 7m Microchip noted on Intake? yes Microchip Number (If Applicable): 985112010540149 History : owner surrender Subjective: BARH, unremarkable appetite or defecation Observed Behavior - very energetic, will howl when not in sight of bond mate Evidence of Cruelty seen - no Evidence of Trauma seen - no Objective P = wnl R = wnl BCS 5/9 EENT: Eyes clear, ears warm and pink, no nasal or ocular discharge noted Oral Exam: unremarkable PLN: No enlargements noted H/L: NSR, NMA, CRT < 2, Lungs clear, eupnic ABD: Non painful, no masses palpated U/G: male neutered, no leakage or discharge MSI: Ambulatory x 4, skin free of parasites, no masses noted, healthy hair coat, multiple areas of alopecia with reddened skin and scale with lick associated abrasions CNS: Mentation appropriate - no signs of neurologic abnormalities Rectal: visually normal Assessment dermatitis unspecified allergies Prognosis: good Plan: simplicef 10 mg/kg SID for 14 days benadryl 75mg PO BID for 5 days *** TO FOSTER OR ADOPT *** If you would like to adopt a NYC ACC dog, and can get to the shelter in person to complete the adoption process, you can contact the shelter directly. We have provided the Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan information below. Adoption hours at these facilities is Noon – 8:00 p.m. (6:30 on weekends) If you CANNOT get to the shelter in person and you want to FOSTER OR ADOPT a NYC ACC Dog, you can PRIVATE MESSAGE our Must Love Dogs page for assistance. PLEASE NOTE: You MUST live in NY, NJ, PA, CT, RI, DE, MD, MA, NH, VT, ME or Northern VA. You will need to fill out applications with a New Hope Rescue Partner to foster or adopt a NYC ACC dog. Transport is available if you live within the prescribed range of states. Shelter contact information: Phone number (212) 788-4000 Email adopt@nycacc.org Shelter Addresses: Brooklyn Shelter: 2336 Linden Boulevard Brooklyn, NY 11208 Manhattan Shelter: 326 East 110 St. New York, NY 10029 Staten Island Shelter: 3139 Veterans Road West Staten Island, NY 10309 *** NEW NYC ACC RATING SYSTEM *** Level 1 Dogs with Level 1 determinations are suitable for the majority of homes. These dogs are not displaying concerning behaviors in shelter, and the owner surrender profile (where available) is positive. Level 2 Dogs with Level 2 determinations will be suitable for adopters with some previous dog experience. They will have displayed behavior in the shelter (or have owner reported behavior) that requires some training, or is simply not suitable for an adopter with minimal experience. Level 3 Dogs with Level 3 determinations will need to go to homes with experienced adopters, and the ACC strongly suggest that the adopter have prior experience with the challenges described and/or an understanding of the challenge and how to manage it safely in a home environment. In many cases, a trainer will be needed to manage and work on the behaviors safely in a home environment.

[worthamjolyn]

Does PhenQ Actually Work? A Detailed Review

Name the diet plan you’ve tried it and now you’re looking into PhenQ!

Read what the official manufacturer of the product say about PhenQ!

Indeed, you may be looking to accelerate your weight loss. Or you may be looking for a quick diet and healther plan of attack.

At one point, you’ve gone carb free or gluten free. You tried the best over the counter diet pill that really works.

And even, the latest healthy eating trend, superfood, or weight loss plan.

Of course, you’ve been pairing your diet plans of the month with regular work-outs, hoping that you’ll get great results.

If this sounds familiar, then, you should search for another burning fat option. One day, you discovered diet pills like Phen375 or PhenQ.

If you want to FINALLY reach your 2017 weight loss goals, you may also want to read : 

The 7 Best Weight Loss Pills and Supplements That Actually Work

The Truth About Phen375 – Does This Diet Pill Really Work?

Garcinia Cambogia Extract Diet Pills : An Evidence-based Review

Are these fat burning pills the miracle products which accelerate your weight loss ?

If you ask yourself this question, you are at the right place. You’ll find here research on PhenQ. Also, you’ll find out whether it’s a good option in comparison to other weight loss pills, like Phen375.

Our PhenQ Review

What is PhenQ?

PhenQ is a diet pill supplement.

According to the manufacturer’s United States distributor website, this natural supplement performs the purpose of targeting and burning stored fat. Also, it suppresses your appetite and block fat production.

They even make the claim that the diet pill is able to positively impact your moods and give you energy boosts.

To back up their claims, the manufacturers assert to have scientific and clinical study. These researchers evidence that PhenQ is the go-to product to achieve weight loss benefits.

So…that’s the hype. But to really find out what PhenQ is, we’ll go ahead and ask some follow up questions.

What Are The Ingredients Of PhenQ?

PhenQ is not Phentermine

Let’s start with what this diet pill supplement is not.

Although names like PhenQ, Phen24 and Phen375 broadly hint at the weight loss power of phentermine, it doesn’t contain phentermine.

This is a good point as some countries bannish phentermine (although not the United States) due to its bad effects.

This supplement includes 7 natural ingredients: Capsimax Powder, Calcium Carbonate, Chromium Picolinate, Caffeine, Nopal, L-Carnitine Furmurate, and its key ingredient “α-Lacys Reset®”.

It also contains amounts of Magnesium Stearate and Magnesium Oxide.

Unless you’ve got a scientific or nutritionist background, none of these ingredient names probably mean much to you.

Don’t worry; the next step of course is to go over each ingredient in order.

PhenQ Ingredients

In doing so, we’ll consider the results of relevant research studies. These studies relate to whether the PhenQ ingredients indeed prove effective in helping people lose weight.

Read Also : Forskolin Review : Coleus Forskolii For Weight Loss ?

1 – Capsimax Powder

This is a mixture of capsicum, piperine, caffeine, and niacin :

Capsicum – Coming from chili pepper plants, a 2012 study demonstrates that capsicum plays a role in achieving quantifiable weight loss. This derivative purports to influence the process of losing weight by reducing energy intake. Or, in simpler terms, capsicum shows to act as an appetite suppressant.

Piperine – AKA black pepper also shows by at least one scientific study to play a role in fat reduction.

Caffeine – This too has reference in more than one study. For instance, a 2009 study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition proves PhenQ to have effect on the burning of calories and suppressing of the appetite.

Niacin – also Vitamin B3. According to the National Library of Medicine, Niacin “is also important for converting food to energy”. Despite all of the vital functions niacin performs for a healthy body, our bodies do not store niacin. Therefore, food intake or dietary supplements must continually replenish the body. According to a 2010 study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, niacin also acts as an appetite stimulant. Unfortunately, the other properties of niacin counteract its weight loss benefits.

2 – Calcium Carbonate

Calcium Carbonat is a supplemental form of dietary calcium. PhenQ website claims that this ingredient encourages the body to burn fat. However the research study they cite actually does not appear to support it. Additionally, the results of some study contradict that this ingredient plays any significant role in weight loss at all.

One final note: calcium carbonate may cause moderate PhenQ side effects, as we will discuss a little further on.

3 – Chromium Picolinate

Chromium Picolinate is a natural mineral that is in many healthful foods such as meats, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. A 1993 study published in The Journal of Nutrition evidences that chromium can counteract insulin resistance.

And therefore help with blood sugar regulation, which help suppress cravings for carbohydrates (and thereby decrease calorie consumption).

4 – Nopal

Nopal is the pad of the Mexican prickly pear cactus. A 2014 study says that the fiber in this ingredient is beneficial in helping the body rid itself of fat.

The study also concludes that nopal is a healthy part of the diet for reasons other than weight loss.

5 – L-Carnitine Furmurate

L-Carnitine Furmurate is an amino acid aids in fat metabolisation and energy production. Red meats, avocado, and dairy among other foods contain this PhenQ ingredient.

6 – Magnesium Stearate and Oxide

Magnesium is mineral essential to many bodily processes. Manufacturers use frequently Magnesium Stearate to bind and maintain a proper blend of supplement ingredients.

7 – aLacy’s Reset

The key ingredient is a mixture of alpha-lipoic acid and cysteine. It acts as a metabolism accelerator and speeds up calorie burning.

Check Also This Natural Supplement : Does Taking Skinny Fiber Help With Weight Loss?

Is PhenQ Safe?

The makers claim that they manufacture this diet supplement in an FDA-approved facility. According to the FDA website, however, the FDA does not certify or inspect manufacturing facilities for dietary supplements. Nor do they require approval for dietary supplements before their marketing.

The good news, however, is that the FDA begins to monitor diet supplements after they enter the market place.

FDA posts a list of consumer updates and warnings regarding such products. Thus, PhenQ doesn’t appear on this list. Nor has any study associating this diet pill with any safety violations or serious PhenQ side effects.

So it appears that this supplement is safe to take. But it’s safe if one follows the makers own administration directions.

Pregnant, nursing women or minors under the age of 18 shouldn’t take the pill. They also warn that people with pre-existing conditions or taking medical prescriptions shouldn’t take this diet pill without first consulting with a doctor or a medical health professional.

Check Here The Most FAQs About PhenQ!

What Are PhenQ Side Effects ?

Users don’t report any significant PhenQ side effects.

However, you shouldn’t take PhenQ after about 3pm, due to the fact that it’s a stimulant. If you have caffeine sensitivities, you also should avoid taking other forms of caffeine (coffee, soft drinks).

Calcium carbonate induce PhenQ side effects like constipation, nausea or vomiting, gas, mental confusion, headaches and thirst. In the case of PhenQ however, it doesn’t appear that consumers report such symptoms.

Does PhenQ Really Work?

PhenQ is relatively new to the marketplace. Therefore, there are not extensive online reviews.

However, PhenQ does work to perform its stated purposes. Consumers lost weight when taking PhenQ.They report experiencing the benefits of more energy and suppression of appetite.

The following is a sample of some of the contrasting reviews available regarding customer’s results.

PhenQ Reviews

Emily – March 31st 2016

An independent customer Emily writes that “within 10-15 minutes of taking” PhenQ she experiences an increase in her energy levels. To the point that she can begin to perform daily exercise. Something she previously had not had the energy to do. Emily also reports a weight loss of 48 pounds in 3 months with PhenQ, a healthy diet and exercise.

Amanda – April 19th 2016

Amanda is one of the few consumer reviewers reportes a negative experience using PhenQ. She claims to suffer from the PhenQ side effects of calcium carbonate. However, while Amanda ultimately decides that the PhenQ side effects are too severe to continue to take the supplement. She also acknowledges that she experiences significant weight loss.

Jason – This consumer reportes experiencing frustration with other weight loss products before turning to PhenQ. And finally with this supplement, he achieves the weight loss results he desires.

The majority of customer reviews available aremore similar to Emily and Jason’s comments than Amanda’s. Whether these reviewers actually are real and independent, you must judge for yourself.

Other Considerations

There are a few other factors to consider when making a decision about purchasing PhenQ.

Firstly, while a main goal of PhenQ is to be a burning fat accelerator, it is not a stand-alone quick fix. It acts in conjunction with a healthy diet and an exercise regimen.

PhenQ vs Phen375

VS

Secondly, price. At $69.99 a bottle, PhenQ is about 10 dollars more expensive than Phen375. Phen 375 also has the advantage of existing around longer. It means it has a more proven record of targeting excess pounds. Also, it has more evidence to be a safe weight loss supplement.

Third, guarantee. While Phen375 do offer a money back guarantee, Phen375 only offers a limited money back pledge. Phen375 requires that customers must within 30 days of the original purchase jump through several hoops.

These include keeping an online record throughout use on Phen375’s specifically website. As well as receiving certification from a doctor to support the customers claim to not having any weight loss benefits.

In contrast, PhenQ offers customers a 67 day guarantee (the extra seven days are to account for shipping time). And the diet pill requires much less proof of a customer’s dissatisfaction with their product. Their flexible policy is an effort to get consumers to sample their product. Definitely, it succeeds in adding an extra safety about purchasing it.

PhenQ even advertises that customers can take advantage of their BTGO (Buy Two Get One) deal and of their guarantee.

But PhenQ requests to return bottles with the money back request. And that the guarantee only refunds purchase price but excludes shipping costs. Still, PhenQ’s minimal restrictions compare favorably with return policy.

Conclusion

There are no safety concerns severe enough to avoid PhenQ.

Also, there are enough positive customer reviews and research to justify the taking of the diet pill. Ultimately, though, this is a decision that must weight carefully. And possibly discuss with a healthcare professional.

Check also these new PhenQ Testimonials!

This is especially true if you have health problems. Or if you are on a prescription medication that may interfere with PhenQ’s ingredient combination.

One last reminder when making the decision whether to buy PhenQ or not. This supplement is a weight loss accelerator and enhancer. All the hype and hoopla aside, the producers don’t make the claim to magical properties.

This supplement accompanies a regular weight loss diet and regimen, including a healthy diet and exercise.

So Should You Take PhenQ?

Ultimately, taking the best weight loss supplement on the market is up to you. But we hope this article proves helpful to you. And now you consider the pros and cons of taking this diet supplement.

If you take PhenQ or a similar weight loss pill such as Phen375, please share your thoughts and experiences. We’d also like to hear some of your considerations if you’re still thinking about PhenQ.

The post Does PhenQ Actually Work? A Detailed Review appeared first on Daddy Nutrition - Your guide for a healthier life.

from http://www.daddynutrition.com/phenq-reviews/ from https://daddynutrition0.tumblr.com/post/163274776462

[aicheledena]

Does PhenQ Actually Work? A Detailed Review

Name the diet plan you’ve tried it and now you’re looking into PhenQ!

Read what the official manufacturer of the product say about PhenQ!

Indeed, you may be looking to accelerate your weight loss. Or you may be looking for a quick diet and healther plan of attack.

At one point, you’ve gone carb free or gluten free. You tried the best over the counter diet pill that really works.

And even, the latest healthy eating trend, superfood, or weight loss plan.

Of course, you’ve been pairing your diet plans of the month with regular work-outs, hoping that you’ll get great results.

If this sounds familiar, then, you should search for another burning fat option. One day, you discovered diet pills like Phen375 or PhenQ.

If you want to FINALLY reach your 2017 weight loss goals, you may also want to read : 

The 7 Best Weight Loss Pills and Supplements That Actually Work

The Truth About Phen375 – Does This Diet Pill Really Work?

Garcinia Cambogia Extract Diet Pills : An Evidence-based Review

Are these fat burning pills the miracle products which accelerate your weight loss ?

If you ask yourself this question, you are at the right place. You’ll find here research on PhenQ. Also, you’ll find out whether it’s a good option in comparison to other weight loss pills, like Phen375.

Our PhenQ Review

What is PhenQ?

PhenQ is a diet pill supplement.

According to the manufacturer’s United States distributor website, this natural supplement performs the purpose of targeting and burning stored fat. Also, it suppresses your appetite and block fat production.

They even make the claim that the diet pill is able to positively impact your moods and give you energy boosts.

To back up their claims, the manufacturers assert to have scientific and clinical study. These researchers evidence that PhenQ is the go-to product to achieve weight loss benefits.

So…that’s the hype. But to really find out what PhenQ is, we’ll go ahead and ask some follow up questions.

What Are The Ingredients Of PhenQ?

PhenQ is not Phentermine

Let’s start with what this diet pill supplement is not.

Although names like PhenQ, Phen24 and Phen375 broadly hint at the weight loss power of phentermine, it doesn’t contain phentermine.

This is a good point as some countries bannish phentermine (although not the United States) due to its bad effects.

This supplement includes 7 natural ingredients: Capsimax Powder, Calcium Carbonate, Chromium Picolinate, Caffeine, Nopal, L-Carnitine Furmurate, and its key ingredient “α-Lacys Reset®”.

It also contains amounts of Magnesium Stearate and Magnesium Oxide.

Unless you’ve got a scientific or nutritionist background, none of these ingredient names probably mean much to you.

Don’t worry; the next step of course is to go over each ingredient in order.

PhenQ Ingredients

In doing so, we’ll consider the results of relevant research studies. These studies relate to whether the PhenQ ingredients indeed prove effective in helping people lose weight.

Read Also : Forskolin Review : Coleus Forskolii For Weight Loss ?

1 – Capsimax Powder

This is a mixture of capsicum, piperine, caffeine, and niacin :

Capsicum – Coming from chili pepper plants, a 2012 study demonstrates that capsicum plays a role in achieving quantifiable weight loss. This derivative purports to influence the process of losing weight by reducing energy intake. Or, in simpler terms, capsicum shows to act as an appetite suppressant.

Piperine – AKA black pepper also shows by at least one scientific study to play a role in fat reduction.

Caffeine – This too has reference in more than one study. For instance, a 2009 study in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition proves PhenQ to have effect on the burning of calories and suppressing of the appetite.

Niacin – also Vitamin B3. According to the National Library of Medicine, Niacin “is also important for converting food to energy”. Despite all of the vital functions niacin performs for a healthy body, our bodies do not store niacin. Therefore, food intake or dietary supplements must continually replenish the body. According to a 2010 study in the World Journal of Gastroenterology, niacin also acts as an appetite stimulant. Unfortunately, the other properties of niacin counteract its weight loss benefits.

2 – Calcium Carbonate

Calcium Carbonat is a supplemental form of dietary calcium. PhenQ website claims that this ingredient encourages the body to burn fat. However the research study they cite actually does not appear to support it. Additionally, the results of some study contradict that this ingredient plays any significant role in weight loss at all.

One final note: calcium carbonate may cause moderate PhenQ side effects, as we will discuss a little further on.

3 – Chromium Picolinate

Chromium Picolinate is a natural mineral that is in many healthful foods such as meats, whole grains, fruits and vegetables. A 1993 study published in The Journal of Nutrition evidences that chromium can counteract insulin resistance.

And therefore help with blood sugar regulation, which help suppress cravings for carbohydrates (and thereby decrease calorie consumption).

4 – Nopal

Nopal is the pad of the Mexican prickly pear cactus. A 2014 study says that the fiber in this ingredient is beneficial in helping the body rid itself of fat.

The study also concludes that nopal is a healthy part of the diet for reasons other than weight loss.

5 – L-Carnitine Furmurate

L-Carnitine Furmurate is an amino acid aids in fat metabolisation and energy production. Red meats, avocado, and dairy among other foods contain this PhenQ ingredient.

6 – Magnesium Stearate and Oxide

Magnesium is mineral essential to many bodily processes. Manufacturers use frequently Magnesium Stearate to bind and maintain a proper blend of supplement ingredients.

7 – aLacy’s Reset

The key ingredient is a mixture of alpha-lipoic acid and cysteine. It acts as a metabolism accelerator and speeds up calorie burning.

Check Also This Natural Supplement : Does Taking Skinny Fiber Help With Weight Loss?

Is PhenQ Safe?

The makers claim that they manufacture this diet supplement in an FDA-approved facility. According to the FDA website, however, the FDA does not certify or inspect manufacturing facilities for dietary supplements. Nor do they require approval for dietary supplements before their marketing.

The good news, however, is that the FDA begins to monitor diet supplements after they enter the market place.

FDA posts a list of consumer updates and warnings regarding such products. Thus, PhenQ doesn’t appear on this list. Nor has any study associating this diet pill with any safety violations or serious PhenQ side effects.

So it appears that this supplement is safe to take. But it’s safe if one follows the makers own administration directions.

Pregnant, nursing women or minors under the age of 18 shouldn’t take the pill. They also warn that people with pre-existing conditions or taking medical prescriptions shouldn’t take this diet pill without first consulting with a doctor or a medical health professional.

Check Here The Most FAQs About PhenQ!

What Are PhenQ Side Effects ?

Users don’t report any significant PhenQ side effects.

However, you shouldn’t take PhenQ after about 3pm, due to the fact that it’s a stimulant. If you have caffeine sensitivities, you also should avoid taking other forms of caffeine (coffee, soft drinks).

Calcium carbonate induce PhenQ side effects like constipation, nausea or vomiting, gas, mental confusion, headaches and thirst. In the case of PhenQ however, it doesn’t appear that consumers report such symptoms.

Does PhenQ Really Work?

PhenQ is relatively new to the marketplace. Therefore, there are not extensive online reviews.

However, PhenQ does work to perform its stated purposes. Consumers lost weight when taking PhenQ.They report experiencing the benefits of more energy and suppression of appetite.

The following is a sample of some of the contrasting reviews available regarding customer’s results.

PhenQ Reviews

Emily – March 31st 2016

An independent customer Emily writes that “within 10-15 minutes of taking” PhenQ she experiences an increase in her energy levels. To the point that she can begin to perform daily exercise. Something she previously had not had the energy to do. Emily also reports a weight loss of 48 pounds in 3 months with PhenQ, a healthy diet and exercise.

Amanda – April 19th 2016

Amanda is one of the few consumer reviewers reportes a negative experience using PhenQ. She claims to suffer from the PhenQ side effects of calcium carbonate. However, while Amanda ultimately decides that the PhenQ side effects are too severe to continue to take the supplement. She also acknowledges that she experiences significant weight loss.

Jason – This consumer reportes experiencing frustration with other weight loss products before turning to PhenQ. And finally with this supplement, he achieves the weight loss results he desires.

The majority of customer reviews available aremore similar to Emily and Jason’s comments than Amanda’s. Whether these reviewers actually are real and independent, you must judge for yourself.

Other Considerations

There are a few other factors to consider when making a decision about purchasing PhenQ.

Firstly, while a main goal of PhenQ is to be a burning fat accelerator, it is not a stand-alone quick fix. It acts in conjunction with a healthy diet and an exercise regimen.

PhenQ vs Phen375

VS

Secondly, price. At $69.99 a bottle, PhenQ is about 10 dollars more expensive than Phen375. Phen 375 also has the advantage of existing around longer. It means it has a more proven record of targeting excess pounds. Also, it has more evidence to be a safe weight loss supplement.

Third, guarantee. While Phen375 do offer a money back guarantee, Phen375 only offers a limited money back pledge. Phen375 requires that customers must within 30 days of the original purchase jump through several hoops.

These include keeping an online record throughout use on Phen375’s specifically website. As well as receiving certification from a doctor to support the customers claim to not having any weight loss benefits.

In contrast, PhenQ offers customers a 67 day guarantee (the extra seven days are to account for shipping time). And the diet pill requires much less proof of a customer’s dissatisfaction with their product. Their flexible policy is an effort to get consumers to sample their product. Definitely, it succeeds in adding an extra safety about purchasing it.

PhenQ even advertises that customers can take advantage of their BTGO (Buy Two Get One) deal and of their guarantee.

But PhenQ requests to return bottles with the money back request. And that the guarantee only refunds purchase price but excludes shipping costs. Still, PhenQ’s minimal restrictions compare favorably with return policy.

Conclusion

There are no safety concerns severe enough to avoid PhenQ.

Also, there are enough positive customer reviews and research to justify the taking of the diet pill. Ultimately, though, this is a decision that must weight carefully. And possibly discuss with a healthcare professional.

Check also these new PhenQ Testimonials!

This is especially true if you have health problems. Or if you are on a prescription medication that may interfere with PhenQ’s ingredient combination.

One last reminder when making the decision whether to buy PhenQ or not. This supplement is a weight loss accelerator and enhancer. All the hype and hoopla aside, the producers don’t make the claim to magical properties.

This supplement accompanies a regular weight loss diet and regimen, including a healthy diet and exercise.

So Should You Take PhenQ?

Ultimately, taking the best weight loss supplement on the market is up to you. But we hope this article proves helpful to you. And now you consider the pros and cons of taking this diet supplement.

If you take PhenQ or a similar weight loss pill such as Phen375, please share your thoughts and experiences. We’d also like to hear some of your considerations if you’re still thinking about PhenQ.

The post Does PhenQ Actually Work? A Detailed Review appeared first on Daddy Nutrition - Your guide for a healthier life.

from http://www.daddynutrition.com/phenq-reviews/ from http://daddynutrition.blogspot.com/2017/07/does-phenq-actually-work-detailed-review.html

[bloojayoolie]

Being Alone, Bones, and Bored: 2 yrs old, 95 bs Waiting on LoveManiattaER ACC Benj 95 Lbs Handsome. Benji iş a big, very well-mannered Boy. Friendly, Affectionate TDe 39570 nd Playful. He LOVES the pool and is bouncy playful with the other dogs in playgroup. TO BE KILLED 9/4/18 Handsome Benji <3 Benji is one handsome big boy, very well-mannered, calm and - obviously - the happiest about the pool. Benji is described as playful, friendly and affectionate, he is polite around other dogs and bouncy playful with his peers in playgroup. Please share this magnificient boy for a loving home! A volunteer writes: Summer may have come to an end but the party, well it doesn't have to. Not if you play your cards right, are quick on the draw, and hit the jackpot with one special pup. Not only is 2 year-old Benji smart as a whip, cute as a button, and sweet - make that sweeter - than honey, he's also playful, well-mannered, social, and warm, and his pool skills give Phelps a run for his money. But we can't talk about Benji without touching on his looks, and that cinnamon-cream coat? You'll want to be touching it. And when done admiring his long, wagging tail, and ample, sturdy frame, you'll arrive at his eyes - one brown and one blue - both striking enough for you to wholly get lost in. Benji is a young, active boy who would do best with an experienced family who'll take him on plenty of walks (more like parades with this boy), have laps open for snuggles, and maybe engage in a splish-splash or two when the temperatures call for it. Summer's come to an end but the party? It's just getting started. And just as with your long life with Benji you'll never want it to end. Benji is waiting in adoptions at Manhattan ACC. VIDEO Benji knows how to beat the heat https://youtu.be/BwrQBs4MdSA Benji and Hannah https://youtu.be/162Y-LHWKlc Benji ID# 39570 Manhattan Animal Care Center 2 yrs old, 95 Lbs Brown / White Male Large Mixed Breed Cross Owner Surrender / Reason: too big Intake Date: 08-27-2018 SHELTER ASSESSMENT: ADULT ONLY HOME (No Childen under 13) OWNER NOTES This animal came from: Friend Basic Information: Benji is a 2 year old, male, large breed dog. Previously lived with: 3 adults How is this dog around strangers? Benji is friendly and outgoing with strangers and plays somewhat rough with adults. How is this dog around children? Benji has spent time around small children and he is respectful. he does not play with them. How is this dog around other dogs? Benji has spent time around other dogs and he is respectful of them. He plays exuberantly with them. How is this dog around cats? Benji has not spent time around cats. behavior is unknown. Resource guarding: Benji does not resource guard his food, treats, or toys. Bite history: Benji has no bite history. Housetrained: Yes Energy level/descriptors: high Other Notes: Benji will bark at first when left alone but will eventually stop after a few minutes. He isn't bothered by storms or fireworks. He isn't bothered when pulled or pushed off furniture, disturbed while sleeping, held or restrained, given a bath or having paws touched. He has never had his nails trimmed and brushed. He will bark when someone unfamiliar comes to the door but is friendly when someone unfamiliar comes up to owner outside. Has this dog ever had any medical issues? No Medical Notes Benji has no known medical issues upon intake. For a New Family to Know Benji is described friendly, affectionate, and playful. Client loves how strong Benji is. Benji loves to play and run around and his favorite toys are ropes, bones and tire toys. He is indoors only and sleeps with owner. He eats blue buffalo wet and dry food and is house trained. he rarely has accidents in the home. He can use wee wee pads and prefers the grass when outside. He is well behaved when left alone but may bite on the walls when bored. He has never been crate trained and knows the commands sit, come and down. He pulls very hard on leash and has never been walked off leash. BEHAVIOR NOTES Intake Upon intake, Benji had a loose body and waggy tail. he jumped on counselor for attention and licked her arm. he allowed counselor to pet, collar, and take picture. Means of surrender (length of time in previous home): Owner Surrender Previously lived with: Adults Behavior toward strangers: Friendly and outgoing Behavior toward children: Respectful Behavior toward dogs: Exuberantly playful Resource guarding: None reported Bite history: None reported Housetrained: Yes Energy level/descriptors: Benji is described friendly, affectionate, and playful with a high level of activity. SAFER SCORES: Date of assessment: 28-Aug-2018 Look: 1. Dog leans forward or jumps up to lick the Assessor's face with tail wagging, ears back and eyes averted. Sensitivity: 2. Dog displays high energy and movement, but it is directed toward getting closer to the Assessor. Body is soft, likely panting, may jump up between attempts to lick Assessor. Tag: 1. Dog assumes play position and joins the game. Or dog indicates play with huffing, soft 'popping' of the body, etc. Dog might jump on Assessor once play begins. Paw squeeze 1: 2. Dog gently places open mouth over the Assessor's hand without applying pressure. Paw squeeze 2: 2. Dog quickly pull back. Flank squeeze 1: Item not conducted Flank squeeze 2: Item not conducted Toy: 1. Dog settles close, keeps a firm grip and is loose and wiggly. Dog does not place his/her body between you and the toy. Summary: Benji quickly approached the assessor and jumped up in a social manner. He displayed a very high level of activity and movement on his assessment, bring in constant motion and jumped up several times. He was a bit mouthy, applying light pressure. He was social throughout and allowed all handling. Summary (1): 8/28: When introduced off leash to a female dog, Benji engages in soft bouncy play. Summary (2): 8/29-30: Benji engages in soft play. Date of intake: 27-Aug-2018 Summary: Loose body, allowed handling Date of initial: 27-Aug-2018 Summary: Playful, jumpy ENERGY LEVEL: Benji is described as having a high level of activity. He is a young, enthusiastic, social dog who will need daily mental and physical activity to keep him engaged and exercised. We recommend long-lasting chews, food puzzles, and hide-and-seek games, in additional to physical exercise, to positively direct his energy and enthusiasm. BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION: ADULT ONLY HOME Recommendations: No children (under 13) Recommendations comments: No children: Due to the high level of jumping and mouthing seen at the care center, we recommend an adult only home. Potential challenges: Basic manners/poor impulse control Mouthiness/poor bite inhibition Strength/leash pulling Potential challenges comments: Basic manners/poor impulse control: Benji jumps up a lot on people in a social manner. It is recommended that default behaviors such as "Leave it", "Sit/Stay", "Down" are reinforced to substitute any frustration and teach him to control his impulses instead of simply reacting; proper management is also advised. Force-free, reward based training only is recommended. Mouthiness/poor bite inhibition: Benji has shown some mouthiness in the care center. Little pressure is applied, but this is a behavior that should be extinguished through training alternate behaviors and lack of reward (ex. walking away whenever Benji's teeth make contact with skin). Strength/leash pulling: Benji is a very large, strong dog with the capability to pull over an average adopter. His adopter must be prepared and able to handle a dog of this size and strength. It is recommended that he be walked on a front clip harness or head halter, which help diminish his strength through leverage, and that he be trained using positive reinforcement, reward based training to not pull on leash. MEDICAL EXAM NOTES My health has been checked. My vaccinations are up to date. My worming is up to date. I have been microchipped. *** TO FOSTER OR ADOPT *** If you would like to adopt a dog on our “To Be Killed” list, and you CAN get to the shelter in person to complete the adoption process *within 48 hours of reserve*, you can reserve the dog online until noon on the day they are scheduled to die. We have provided the Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan information below. Adoption hours at these facilities is Noon – 8:00 p.m. (6:30 on weekends) HOW TO RESERVE A “TO BE KILLED” DOG ONLINE (only for those who can get to the shelter IN PERSON to complete the adoption process, and only for the dogs on the list NOT marked New Hope Rescue Only). Follow our Step by Step directions below! *PLEASE NOTE – YOU MUST USE A PC OR TABLET – PHONE RESERVES WILL NOT WORK! ** STEP 1: CLICK ON THIS RESERVE LINK: https://newhope.shelterbuddy.com/Animal/List Step 2: Go to the red menu button on the top right corner, click register and fill in your info. Step 3: Go to your email and verify account Step 4: Go back to the website, click the menu button and view available dogs Step 5: Scroll to the animal you are interested and click reserve STEP 6 ( MOST IMPORTANT STEP ): GO TO THE MENU AGAIN AND VIEW YOUR CART. THE ANIMAL SHOULD NOW BE IN YOUR CART! Step 7: Fill in your credit card info and complete transaction Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) nycacc.org HOW TO FOSTER OR ADOPT IF YOU *CANNOT* GET TO THE SHELTER IN PERSON, OR IF THE DOG IS NEW HOPE RESCUE ONLY! You must live within 3 – 4 hours of NY, NJ, PA, CT, RI, DE, MD, MA, NH, VT, ME or Norther VA. Please PM our page for assistance. You will need to fill out applications with a New Hope Rescue Partner to foster or adopt a dog on the To Be Killed list, including those labelled Rescue Only. Hurry please, time is short, and the Rescues need time to process the applications.

[bloojayoolie]

Being Alone, Andrew Bogut, and Bones: 2 yrs old, 95 bs Waiting on LoveManiattaER ACC Benj 95 Lbs Handsome. Benji iş a big, very well-mannered Boy. Friendly, Affectionate TDe 39570 nd Playful. He LOVES the pool and is bouncy playful with the other dogs in playgroup. Handsome Benji <3 Benji is one handsome big boy, very well-mannered, calm and - obviously - the happiest about the pool. Benji is described as playful, friendly and affectionate, he is polite around other dogs and bouncy playful with his peers in playgroup. Please share this magnificient boy for a loving home! VIDEO Benji knows how to beat the heat https://youtu.be/BwrQBs4MdSA Benji and Hannah https://youtu.be/162Y-LHWKlc Benji ID# 39570 Manhattan Animal Care Center 2 yrs old, 95 Lbs Brown / White Male Large Mixed Breed Cross Owner Surrender / Reason: too big Intake Date: 08-27-2018 SHELTER ASSESSMENT: ADULT ONLY HOME (No Childen under 13) OWNER NOTES This animal came from: Friend Basic Information: Benji is a 2 year old, male, large breed dog. Previously lived with: 3 adults How is this dog around strangers? Benji is friendly and outgoing with strangers and plays somewhat rough with adults. How is this dog around children? Benji has spent time around small children and he is respectful. he does not play with them. How is this dog around other dogs? Benji has spent time around other dogs and he is respectful of them. He plays exuberantly with them. How is this dog around cats? Benji has not spent time around cats. behavior is unknown. Resource guarding: Benji does not resource guard his food, treats, or toys. Bite history: Benji has no bite history. Housetrained: Yes Energy level/descriptors: high Other Notes: Benji will bark at first when left alone but will eventually stop after a few minutes. He isn't bothered by storms or fireworks. He isn't bothered when pulled or pushed off furniture, disturbed while sleeping, held or restrained, given a bath or having paws touched. He has never had his nails trimmed and brushed. He will bark when someone unfamiliar comes to the door but is friendly when someone unfamiliar comes up to owner outside. Has this dog ever had any medical issues? No Medical Notes Benji has no known medical issues upon intake. For a New Family to Know Benji is described friendly, affectionate, and playful. Client loves how strong Benji is. Benji loves to play and run around and his favorite toys are ropes, bones and tire toys. He is indoors only and sleeps with owner. He eats blue buffalo wet and dry food and is house trained. he rarely has accidents in the home. He can use wee wee pads and prefers the grass when outside. He is well behaved when left alone but may bite on the walls when bored. He has never been crate trained and knows the commands sit, come and down. He pulls very hard on leash and has never been walked off leash. BEHAVIOR NOTES Intake Upon intake, Benji had a loose body and waggy tail. he jumped on counselor for attention and licked her arm. he allowed counselor to pet, collar, and take picture. Means of surrender (length of time in previous home): Owner Surrender Previously lived with: Adults Behavior toward strangers: Friendly and outgoing Behavior toward children: Respectful Behavior toward dogs: Exuberantly playful Resource guarding: None reported Bite history: None reported Housetrained: Yes Energy level/descriptors: Benji is described friendly, affectionate, and playful with a high level of activity. SAFER SCORES: Date of assessment: 28-Aug-2018 Look: 1. Dog leans forward or jumps up to lick the Assessor's face with tail wagging, ears back and eyes averted. Sensitivity: 2. Dog displays high energy and movement, but it is directed toward getting closer to the Assessor. Body is soft, likely panting, may jump up between attempts to lick Assessor. Tag: 1. Dog assumes play position and joins the game. Or dog indicates play with huffing, soft 'popping' of the body, etc. Dog might jump on Assessor once play begins. Paw squeeze 1: 2. Dog gently places open mouth over the Assessor's hand without applying pressure. Paw squeeze 2: 2. Dog quickly pull back. Flank squeeze 1: Item not conducted Flank squeeze 2: Item not conducted Toy: 1. Dog settles close, keeps a firm grip and is loose and wiggly. Dog does not place his/her body between you and the toy. Summary: Benji quickly approached the assessor and jumped up in a social manner. He displayed a very high level of activity and movement on his assessment, bring in constant motion and jumped up several times. He was a bit mouthy, applying light pressure. He was social throughout and allowed all handling. Summary (1): 8/28: When introduced off leash to a female dog, Benji engages in soft bouncy play. Summary (2): 8/29-30: Benji engages in soft play. Date of intake: 27-Aug-2018 Summary: Loose body, allowed handling Date of initial: 27-Aug-2018 Summary: Playful, jumpy ENERGY LEVEL: Benji is described as having a high level of activity. He is a young, enthusiastic, social dog who will need daily mental and physical activity to keep him engaged and exercised. We recommend long-lasting chews, food puzzles, and hide-and-seek games, in additional to physical exercise, to positively direct his energy and enthusiasm. BEHAVIOR DETERMINATION: ADULT ONLY HOME Recommendations: No children (under 13) Recommendations comments: No children: Due to the high level of jumping and mouthing seen at the care center, we recommend an adult only home. Potential challenges: Basic manners/poor impulse control Mouthiness/poor bite inhibition Strength/leash pulling Potential challenges comments: Basic manners/poor impulse control: Benji jumps up a lot on people in a social manner. It is recommended that default behaviors such as "Leave it", "Sit/Stay", "Down" are reinforced to substitute any frustration and teach him to control his impulses instead of simply reacting; proper management is also advised. Force-free, reward based training only is recommended. Mouthiness/poor bite inhibition: Benji has shown some mouthiness in the care center. Little pressure is applied, but this is a behavior that should be extinguished through training alternate behaviors and lack of reward (ex. walking away whenever Benji's teeth make contact with skin). Strength/leash pulling: Benji is a very large, strong dog with the capability to pull over an average adopter. His adopter must be prepared and able to handle a dog of this size and strength. It is recommended that he be walked on a front clip harness or head halter, which help diminish his strength through leverage, and that he be trained using positive reinforcement, reward based training to not pull on leash. MEDICAL EXAM NOTES My health has been checked. My vaccinations are up to date. My worming is up to date. I have been microchipped. We want to get the dogs seen early to better their chances of survival, we will no longer wait for detailed information like owner surrender notes, Safers and volunteer write ups - but please check back frequently as we will add all if this information as we get it. THANX IN ADVANCE! *** TO FOSTER OR ADOPT *** If you would like to adopt a NYC ACC dog, and can get to the shelter in person to complete the adoption process, you can contact the shelter directly. We have provided the Brooklyn, Staten Island and Manhattan information below. Adoption hours at these facilities is Noon – 8:00 p.m. (6:30 on weekends) If you CANNOT get to the shelter in person and you want to FOSTER OR ADOPT a NYC ACC Dog, you can PRIVATE MESSAGE our Must Love Dogs page for assistance. PLEASE NOTE: You MUST live in NY, NJ, PA, CT, RI, DE, MD, MA, NH, VT, ME or Northern VA. You will need to fill out applications with a New Hope Rescue Partner to foster or adopt a NYC ACC dog. Transport is available if you live within the prescribed range of states. Shelter contact information: Phone number (212) 788-4000 Email adopt@nycacc.org Shelter Addresses: Brooklyn Shelter: 2336 Linden Boulevard Brooklyn, NY 11208 Manhattan Shelter: 326 East 110 St. New York, NY 10029 Staten Island Shelter: 3139 Veterans Road West Staten Island, NY 10309