Taking my Dog's Advice

Just one of my random reflections on life.

I was thinking of the impact animals (usually as pets) have on us as human beings.  I was thinking of my sweet little dog Fritz (well, the family dog) and how much I miss him.  How in my most difficult times, when I was depressed and lying on the bed, his fuzzy nose would suddenly pop up and start sniffing my face.  Almost innocently asking, “Whats wrong? Why is there salty water on your face?”  And ignoring my normal cries of, “Aghh leave me alone in my misery you smelly dog!” He would carelessly hop up and snuggle into me.  And I would instantly start to feel better.  Like “Hey, even though the whole world seems against you, I still appreciate our cuddles.” Fritz never cared what people thought of me, and in my worst times would always seem to pop around for a snuggle or scratch between the ears. And just as soon as he came, he would hop right back off and maybe go find something else to occupy his doggy time.  But it never felt waisted, and I never felt the need to prove myself to him.  It was just programmed into his doggy DNA to be loyal at heart, forgiving no matter how cranky I was, and careless of what I thought of him.  He was just who he was.  An overgrown scraggly looking schnauzer.  The kind of dog my neighbor unknowingly asked me one day, “Have you seen that ugly-looking dog I’ve seen walking around in our neighborhood?”  And in my head I would say, “Yeah, that’s our family dog.”  I would then just love him more for the way he was.  Because I admired him.  What would it be like if I could be like him?  Careless and free?  Loyal and faithful no matter what?  Cruising along in this life of mine just taking it one moment at a time?  Really, I think there are so many life lessons we can learn from animals and our own pets.  What are the things we appreciate about them the most?  And then maybe think of ways we can apply it to our lives?  Maybe even take advice from our pets with how we interact with others…  It might make a huge difference in our human lives.

Author's Note

Really...Just one of my random reflections.

Reviews

[Christopher Miller]

I can relate... I know I learned a great deal from my border collie. I still have habits I picked up from her. And I think I inherited that tunnel vision she'd have when she was doing a 'job'.