I remember back in secondary school in the 80s there was a huge furore over girls using the term ‘dog’ to one another in a derogatory fashion, which ended abruptly when the whole school was called to an assembly..
It was hosted by the formidable figure of Rita Clapshaw the deputy headmistress.. She was of the oldschool breed and was greatly feared by every pupil and staff member, in fact she had been away from the school for a couple of years and the rumour was that she had been on suspension for her overly harsh and violent treatment of a school bully, or another teacher, or a rude parent, or maybe even a visiting platoon of royal marines..
Imagine Trunchbull from Matilda, but empowered by righteousness
She stood up in front of us all, eyes popping out of her head, wobbling and shaking with rage and spat out a furious tirade, daring anyone to call her a dog and shouting and swearing so loudly that kids were bursting into tears all around the assembly hall..
She ended her speech by roaring at the top of her lungs ‘I am a BITCH! A TOUGH, MEAN, BAD TEMPERED **** BITCH, and if I hear one more of you call a girl a DOG, you will have ME to deal with… GIRLS ARE NOT DOGS, THEY ARE **** BITCHES!’
I for one, am gonna take Rita Clapshaw’s word on that