Man's Best Friend

Before owning my dog, Buck, I would have told you I was a cat person.  Granted, the only exposure to pets I had before Buck was a cat named Cacey.  In many ways, Cacey was like a dog.  She was always by my side and would even come when I called her name!  The day she went missing was one of the saddest days of my life, and I still sometimes wish I knew what happened to my furry friend.  Thankfully, you can always get a new pet, and that is where Buck came in (and now we have a new addition to our family named Levi).  Honestly my two dogs, that I consider my fur-babies, have added such a wonderful dynamic to my life!  They have done ridiculous things, like pooping in the shower, and they have also done sweet things, like sitting with me while I am upset and crying.  At the end of the day, they are always there ready to cuddle.  In many ways, they probably understand me more than others would, and that is why I truly believe the old adage that a dog is man's best friend.  Animals have a way of being there for you even when they cannot talk or even understand what you're saying.  In fact, sometimes they make the best friends because you get to do all the complaining and, as long as you're petting them, they just take it all in!

Our sweet Levi

Seeing my puppies always brings a smile to my face, and I really think that *most* dogs have their person's best interest at heart.  This is why I love the idea of service and/or therapy dogs.  Not only do you have an animal that benefits from human affection, but I also believe that humans benefit from animal affection.  Few things can beat my puppy snuggles at the end of the day, and I can only speculate at how much it would mean to someone to get this opportunity when the only form of attention they might get is doctor or nurse care.  Having a dog whose sole motivation is affection come to your hospital room can quickly become the highlight of your day!  I also have been astounded at the knowledge that service dogs can be trained to notify owners if their blood sugar levels are deviating to dangerous levels.  I heard one story where a dog actually retrieved orange juice for its owner who was too weak to get up because his blood sugar was too low.  Now, I don't know if this is completely factual, but I do think dogs have a sixth sense and awareness that surpasses human abilities.  Also, you can't beat the unconditional love of your four-legged-friend.

Buck, our faithful footstool

While I haven't completely given up on cats, I would say my heart has been swayed to be more of a dog-lover.  I know not everyone appreciates animals, my mom would be one such person, but I also know that for others the best therapy is dog therapy!  I remember when I was younger getting so excited if I got to play with a friend's dog.  There was something about the interaction that I loved.  They were so consistent; you throw the ball and they retrieve it.  In a way, I want to share the joy I get from my fur-babies because I feel I am being too selfish with their love and affection.  I don't know if I will actually therapy certify my dogs, but I really do admire the people who do go through the process and invest their time to create a special occasion for others.  Some of the best love I've ever received has been from my dogs, and I would greatly enjoy being able to share the love with others!