Patrol.
Elderly faces wet as brown pebbles
parade local streets,
pacing patiently, come wind or rain
toward flat beaches
jackets held tightly to capped heads,
wellied legs leading pets
struggle to see that walks be taken.
Backs bent, bags ready,
to be disposed in appropriate bins.
Others passing en route
exchange nods through the drizzle.
Bedraggled but usually
dog-loving wags know that despite
weather, taking air
daily with canines tends to provide
chances for sharing.
Normal life with four-pawed friends
highlights people prone
to like causes for outings, instead
of staying at home.
Hail to the army of all-weather folk
facing the dog yarns of owner-patrol.