20 Comments
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E. Jean Carroll's avatar

Merrill! Is it possible? Your dogs SPEAK to me!

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Merrill Markoe's avatar

Hmm. I see. And am I to understand that you have been advising them?

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E. Jean Carroll's avatar

YES, they sought my advice on several matters. I referred them to my attorneys.

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Merrill Markoe's avatar

So I have to hold Roberta Kaplan responsible for this behavior? Oh dear.

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E. Jean Carroll's avatar

She is conducting depositions as I write!

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Rooster's avatar

I absolutely love your art and your lettering!

We have a 9-year old Dutch Malinois who’s a retired combat dog.

This matters because Mals have lower lips.

Imagine ALL the things a human toddler can do with that lower lip to manipulate you.

Now imagine that same ability on what’s basically a furry, muscle-bound toddler who’s smarter than us AND is fluent in Merrill-Speak.

😱🤗😱🤗🫠

Thank You - this made us happy.

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Merrill Markoe's avatar

Thank you Rooster. I am going now to look at Malinois photos and examine the lips.

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Mavis Jukes's avatar

I recognize these manipulative strategies. It’s good to identify and name them. Very helpful. Thank you, Merrill.

Not sure what to do about aggressive, menacing growling/barking for more treats.

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Steve Anderson's avatar

Love this! Hoping for the cat version but I fear the cats won’t make it so easy to find.

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Fisherina's avatar

Unholy alliance, indeed! This is so good.

I once knew a dog who could quietly sit next on the floor next to you (most commonly next to a dining table) -- look right up at you and squeeze out a tear. NO LIE.

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Lily's avatar

This dog here can say, "Why does it take you so long to learn my simple commands"

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Merrill Markoe's avatar

Nicely put.

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Lily's avatar

How does one convey

"such a good good human... oh yes you are. you're so smart. you wonderful, beautiful, pup"

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Michele Miles Gardiner's avatar

I knew it. There's a dog conspiracy. That's why my dog has taken over my heart, my bed, and my life. Next, the world!

Your dog faces are so emotive.

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Hogan's avatar

When I first glanced this, I thought it said ‘devious world of dog masturbation strategies’, which might even be better? Remember, they have no fingers or opposable thumbs. By far the WORST part of being a dog.

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Doug's avatar

While the whole history of the dog world’s domestication of humans is fascinating by itself, your illustrations really bring it to life. I hope you find more chapters, and soon!

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Merrill Markoe's avatar

THANKS. I will have to step up my search for where they hid the book. But I think I have some strong clues.

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brian m's avatar

Truth and delightful artwork that made me smile!

Have a super week👍

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Pamela Haydon Lutz's avatar

Morning chuckles over coffee. So fun (& spot on)!

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Cat Cafe's avatar

Hilarious

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