Buffalo on the Run!
Howdy, friends! It’s me, Rupert, your favorite resident basset hound here at The Hideaway Ranch and Refuge. You might think life at a guest ranch is all lounging in the sun and napping on soft pillows. Well, this week had a twist I didn’t see coming—our lovely buffalo, Rosebud, decided she was ready for a new adventure (and maybe a new boyfriend)!
It all began on a sunny Friday morning. I was lounging on the porch, dreaming about chasing squirrels, when I heard a commotion out in the pasture. My ears perked up. I could tell something was amiss. After a thorough investigation (mostly sniffing around), I realized our sweet Rosebud and Warbonnet had wandered off!
Now, let me tell you, buffalo don’t just go where you want them to go. Oh no, they’ve got minds of their own—much like yours truly when I spot a particularly enticing snack. I found Warbonnet pretty quickly just on the other side of the neighboring fence, but it turns out, Rosebud was on a mission to find love on the neighboring property. Who could blame her? The grass always seems greener on the other side!
Once I alerted the humans, a search party was organized. I joined the ranks, of course. Warbonnet ambled back over to our side pretty easily after being bribed with a tasty alfalfa snack, but Rosebud was nowhere to be found. With my keen nose and undeniable charm, I thought I could help track her down. We hopped into the Gator, and off we went, my ears flapping in the wind like a pair of floppy banners. The thrill of the chase was on!
After a couple of hours of searching (and a few rounds of “Is that her?”), we found Rosebud with the neighbors bull, munching on some grass, completely unfazed by her surroundings. The humans tried to coax her back, but she simply flicked her tail and continued her feast. It was like trying to convince me to leave a bowl of kibble—good luck with that!
I decided to take matters into my own paws. I trotted up to Rosebud, looking as adorable as only a basset hound can. I thought, “If I can charm the guests, surely I can charm a buffalo!”
With my most pitiful eyes and a few strategic woofs, I managed to catch Rosebud’s attention. She turned her big, brown eyes on me and seemed to consider my offer of a free tour back home. Slowly, I started walking back toward the ranch, looking over my shoulder to ensure she was following.
To my delight, Rosebud lumbered after me! But of course, she had to stop every few feet to nibble on the lush grass, and to gaze longingly at the neighbor bull! It was a slow process, let me tell you. We were making progress, but it was like watching molasses flow uphill in January!
As the hours dragged on, the humans employed every trick in the book—treats, calls, and even the classic “come here, Rosebud” chant. After nearly 12 hours, with the sun setting and my paws starting to ache, we finally made it back to the ranch gates.
With a triumphant woof, I led Rosebud home. The humans were relieved, and Rosebud seemed happy to be back with her pals. I think she realized that while the grass might be greener, her friends were worth sticking around for.
Once Rosebud was safely back, the humans got to work mending the fence. I watched as they reinforced the weak spots, hoping no more buffalo would be tempted to seek out romance.
As the stars twinkled overhead, I curled up on my favorite blanket, satisfied with my role as the ranch's furry hero. Life here is never boring, and I wouldn’t trade it for the world—even if it means getting up from my comfy spot now and then!
Until next time, stay adventurous, my friends!
Paw-sitively yours,
Rupert ?