mamadelvec-shares

I have enjoyed the pleasure of owning two pets in my life, both dogs. As a child my mother would not allow us to have any pets, I think she just had too much to attend. I remember my dad trying a few times to take a stray home, but she would not concede. Four children, work, and a household to manage was enough, and she stood her ground.

It wasn’t until I was an adult with children of my own, that I began a journey into dog ownership. Our children begged us for a dog, and since we had gone through a few hamsters we decided they were ready. A shepherd mix, she was the runt of the litter; and on a Friday in February, 1997, we took our first ball of cuddly fur home in a box. Needless to say she was the ideal first puppy! This canine loved people and people loved her gentle, easy going personality. She was named Xena, after the princess warrior, but our pup was no warrior. Exactly the opposite, she was a bit skittish. Whenever someone came to the door she would get so excited she would pee a little. She was curious, energetic, faithful and just downright sweet. To this day, Xena will always be the most cherished animal we ever owned.

After Xena we owned another mix, this time rescued from the Providence Animal Shelter. He came to our home when he was two/three months old, and was the exact opposite of our first beloved Xena. Zeke, as he became known, was a character. He was a jumper, runner, rabbit eater, flip-flop taker, high energy, solid, 85lb tank…on steroids! We almost returned this mongrel to the shelter, but just couldn’t bring ourselves to. For nine years he was our crazy, protective, covered in icicles, never wanting to come indoors–dog!

Although our two dogs were so differently tempered, we truly loved them. These dogs wanted for nothing. They were cared for like a family member, and mourned for with the same degree of love.

These domestic wolves, bring us hours of joy; they can relieve our stress, and in some cases help us to live longer. All of these wonderful attributes to dog ownership is wonderful, but the idea of saying goodbye to another beloved pooch is what stops me from treasuring another.

Canines leave a mark on our hearts, that even years after their death you feel. While saying goodbye to a beloved fur ball is downright horrifying, year’s spent loving man’s best friend certainly teaches a multitude of concepts. Kindness, caring, friendship, listening, companionship, trust, and above all else, unconditional love. All these reasons, plus countless others not mentioned, is why individuals bring dogs into their homes and treat them like family. I believe the positive impact pup ownership carries is far more poignant than the moment they leave us. These animals have taught unforgettable lessons, and we have shared our hearts with them!

I can only speak about the love of a dog, but I’m sure pets of all kinds are just as cherished. We humans are certainly lucky to be given the opportunity to love a creature that so honestly, without hesitation, loves us in return!

Thank you pet lovers,

mamdelvec