’Tis the season to count our blessings—including our pets that provide companionship and improve our quality of life. Over the years I’ve had many different pets, including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils, goldfish, turtles and a hermit crab. I’ve learned something wonderful from each one. We currently share our home with two golden retrievers—Ernest, 13, and Petey, 4. When it comes to reasons to be grateful, they are surely near the top of my list. Here’s why:
1. They’re the best welcoming committee.
I love coming home to someone who’s so happy to see me. We have a large window in our front door, and from the moment my dogs hear my footsteps on the porch, they are waiting there, jumping and wagging their tails like it’s the best moment of their day. Ernest always pushes past his brother to receive the first pat from me while Petey waits with a shoe (or two!) in his mouth. Even if I’ve only stepped out for a few minutes, they greet me with unbridled enthusiasm.
2. They keep me amused.
If laughter is good medicine, my dogs keep me extra healthy. Ernest, our senior, has a habit of sleeping in funny places—including on top of the coffee table. Youngster Petey enjoys collecting and relocating shoes. (I often have trouble finding two that match.) I may not be the best dog trainer—instead of correcting these behaviors, I find them hilarious!
3. I have a buddy for any activity.
My dogs are up for joining me in anything I do. It’s nice to have them resting by my desk as I’m working from home, even if they occasionally interrupt a Zoom call. They are good company while I’m outside gardening, and it’s always better to take a walk accompanied by my dogs. Praying in my big green chair, with a dog snuggled on each side, warms my spirit. I’ll never be lonely with dogs.
4. They protect me.
One thing most dogs take seriously is barking like crazy to alert us when someone approaches the house. Their barking is not just for possible intruders. It also goes for visitors. Neighbors. Delivery people. Squirrels. A blowing leaf. Sometimes their early warning systems malfunction, but that’s okay. I like knowing they’re on duty.
5. They inspire me to be my best.
I have a T-shirt that says, “Be the person your dog already thinks you are.” I love this saying. It’s true. My dogs don’t care if I’m too tired to play, brooding over some complicated work problem or throwing myself a pity party because I gained a few pounds. From the moment I wake up in the morning until I lay my head on the pillow, my dogs want nothing more than to be with me. Because of this, I never want to let them down. I can be the person they already think I am!
6. They comfort me when life gets ruff.
Sometimes I think my dogs know I’m upset even before I know it. They press in close. They nudge my arm. They lick my face. They somehow sense that I need comforting. The best part? They don’t scold or offer unsolicited advice. They’re just there for me.
7. They point me toward God’s love.
Who else never judges me? Who rejoices when I come to them and wants to be with me always? Who loves me even though I don’t necessarily deserve it? It’s no mistake that dog is God spelled backwards.
Our pets are our friends. Our family. Our companions, confidants and counselors. What are some reasons you are grateful for yours?
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