A DOG’S-EYE VIEW OF POSSESSION

If it’s on the floor, or on its way to the floor and I manage to grab it, then it’s mine.
If I like the look of it, then it belongs to me.
If I’ve had my mouth around it, or managed a lick, then I’ve made it mine.
If I’ve peed there, then it is my space.
If I’ve managed to sneak off with it, then I deserve to call it mine.
If I won’t let you have it back, that is because it is mine.
If I’m making a mess all over the floor with it, all the bits are still mine too.
If you take your eyes away for long enough for me to grab it, then you are agreeing that it is really mine.
If I think that you probably intended to give it to me, then I am only taking what is already mine.
If it’s ragged, ripped, slobbered on and no more fun, you can have it.