Thought of the Day:
“After putting my own dog to sleep this past summer after she was ill and seeing some friends and family members have to do the same recently, I became interested in reading stories of other people having to “put their dogs down” and how they have dealt with it. Here is one of my favorite stories that I’ve read:
Belker was a BIG Irish Wolfhound. The dog’s owners, Ron and Lisa, and their little boy Shane (who was 8 or 9), were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle. Their veterinarian found that Belker was dying of cancer and very sick.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker‘s family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time. The vet wondered if the little boy understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker’s transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker’s Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ”I know why.” Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I’d never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try and live.
”People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life — like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right? Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.”
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
. Puppy games are for big dogs and dogs of all ages too
. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
. Take naps.
. Stretch before rising.
. Run, romp, and play daily.
. Thrive on attention and let people love you.
. Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
. On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
. On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
. When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
. Be loyal.
. Never pretend to be something you’re not.
. When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
Alison Lass Camacho
Director of Marketing and Communications
This should be pretty fun, with lots of bands and cool people!
Twitter