Can Old Dogs Teach Us New Tricks?

How many times have we pondered whether or not an old dog can actually learn new tricks?  Well, how about dogs teaching humans new tricks?  Hmmm, what do you think we could learn from them?  Here are a few doggie life lessons to make us think and hopefully focus on the simple things in life – the parts of life that have endless value.  Take a break from the busyness of everyday life and see if dogs can, in fact, teach us a few new tricks.

 

If dogs were teachers, we would probably learn the really important stuff like...
*  When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
*  Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
*  Enjoy the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face (don't worry about your hair getting messed up)  .
*  When it’s in your best interest, practice obedience (being obedient might take a lot of practice for some of us).
*  Let others know when they’ve invaded your territory.
*  Take naps (my personal favorite).
*  Stretch before rising.
*  Run, romp, and play daily.
*  Avoid biting when a simple growl will do (something often easier said than done).
*  On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass (only if someone is there to help me get back up).
*  On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
*  When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body (just be sure no one else is around to witness this scary sight).
*  No matter how often you’re scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout… run right back and make friends (another example of something easier said than done).
*  Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
*  Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough (learning to stop when we've had enough may take some time to master).
*  Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you’re not.
*  If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
*  When someone is having a bad day; be silent, sit close by, and be a true companion (no training needed...this is something we can all do but probably don't do nearly enough).

 

So let's try to learn from our very wise, four-legged friends and practice showing them all the love and patience they share with us every day of our lives.  Our pets truly deserve the same respect and unconditional love as all living beings do.  They are not status symbols...they have huge open hearts and, if we open our hearts as well, our lives are FURever changed for the better!

 

Ready to open your heart and home to a new dog, cat, puppy, or kitten?  Check out all the cuddly cuteness waiting for you at Pet Pal by going to http://www.petpalanimalshelter.com.  There you'll find the animals currently available for adoption as well as information about upcoming events, different ways to donate, and volunteer opportunities. 

 

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this.  Please post any questions or suggestions you might have for me in the comments section or via email to chrisnorm74@gmail.com.  I welcome and greatly appreciate any feedback you want to share. 

 

Happy tails to you until we meet again!