How an unlikely pair became best friends
A playful pup named Dally wags her tail. Sit! Fetch! Shake! Like many dogs, Dally can perform all of these tricks. But Dally can also do something most dogs can’t. She can ride a horse!
A Special Skill
Dally didn’t always have this special skill. It all started when a woman named Francesca adopted the little pup. Dally was so small, she could fit in Francesca’s pocket!
When Dally came home with Francesca, the pup met another small animal: a miniature horse named Spanky. At first, Spanky wanted nothing to do with Dally . . . or anyone else!
Spanky would bite Francesca’s hand when she came close. He would kick his legs when other animals came near. Dally sat close by and watched. Then something amazing happened.
“One day, when I wasn’t looking, Dally ran up and jumped on Spanky’s back!” Francesca says.
Even more amazing, Spanky didn’t seem to mind. In fact, he relaxed! With Dally on his back, Spanky no longer bit and kicked. Instead, he was gentle and calm.
“They became the most unlikely, but wonderful, friends,” Francesca explains.
Courtesy Francesca Carsen
A Perfect Pair
Dally and Spanky learned to do tricks together. They’ve even won competitions!
Finding a Friend
Like humans, animals form friendships for many different reasons. Some animals need a friend to keep them safe. Others want a pal to help them find food. As for Dally and Spanky, they simply wanted a buddy to spend time with.
It just goes to show that new friends can be found anywhere. Where will you find your next one?
Paragraph Power
Write a paragraph summarizing Dally and Spanky’s friendship.
Can't Miss Teaching Extras
If you’re looking for a friend like Dally and Spanky were, read “How to Make a New Friend,” an infographic filled with friendship tips and tricks.
New friends can be found anywhere—even at sea! Continue talking to your students about friendship (and meet an unexpected pair of pals) in “The Grandpa and the Penguin.”
Learn about another inspiring friendship in “Kevin and Daisy,” a Paired Texts about a special bond between a boy and a horse.
