“Be the person your dog thinks you are.” — J.W. Stephens
As most of you know, I have two amazing wonderpups. Betty Lou has appeared in many of my columns. She just turned 12. Lily Pad is our new 3-year-old rescue, and looks just like a mini-Betty. Both are lovers, not fighters, and are totally goofy, delightful creatures. They regularly provide me with free entertainment.
I learn an awful lot from them. Like not to bark when a simple growl is enough. To give everyone the benefit of the doubt. To lead with acceptance and love. To be happy about the small things. And that sometimes, just being there, quietly snuggled beside a loved one, is the perfect form of comfort.
I read somewhere that when a dog looks at its human, the feeling for them is akin to when we’re in love. I hope I’m learning all the lessons they were brought into my life to teach me, and I hope I’m continually worthy of their abundant affection.