NOT FOUND: beloved pets.jpgPets aren’t our whole world, but they make our world whole.

This is a famous quote that really rings true today. In times gone by our dogs lived out in the back field and roamed the property keeping unwanted trespassers and rodents off our property. They were valued for their loud bark or growl alerting us to dangers outside our homes. Often their diets consisted of whatever the family didn’t finish at dinner and items they could scavenge from the garbage. It didn’t seem to matter what the weather conditions were outside since we felt our dogs could fend for themselves quite well. Many families acquired cats to live out in the barn to keep the mouse and rat population down. We didn’t worry so much about their diet since there was always an abundance of rodents. These cats would adapt to the cold weather by finding nooks and crannies in odd places. Some of these hiding spots were extremely dangerous. They would be left to fend for themselves.

Today our family dynamics have changed drastically. The pet that was once banished to the great outdoors has become a beloved member of our families. They live front and center with children and adults in the home. The have become wonderful companions for the young and old. Milan Jundera once wrote; “Dogs are our link to paradise. They don’t know evil or jealousy or discontent. To sit with a dog on a hillside on a glorious afternoon is to be back in Eden, where doing nothing was not boring—it was peace”. Our dogs give us their absolute all and we are the center of their world. We are the focus of their love, faith, and trust and they will serve us in return for scraps. Our dog will be our friend, partner, and defender. We are the center of his life and his love. Our pets are faithful and true to the last beat of their heart. Pets are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love and devotion. They don’t care if we are fat, skinny, young, old wealthy or poor; they love us despite our flaws.

Many studies have been conducted which prove that pets are good for our health. They lower our blood pressure and encourage us to get more exercise. They relieve stress just by listening. They don’t try to solve our problems or figure out why we are sad; they just let us be close and listen. Puppies are a natural remedy for not feeling loved and many senior citizens rely on their pets for comfort, companionship, and a reason to get up and get going in the morning. Pets are often the only listening ear or gentle touch our elderly parents encounter throughout the day.

Here is a list of things we can learn from our dogs.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in you face to be pure ecstasy.
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
When it’s in your best interest, always practice obedience.
Let others know when they’ve invaded your territory.
Take naps and always stretch before rising.
Run, romp and play daily.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm.
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 nuzzle them gently.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you are happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
No matter how often you are criticized, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends.
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Enjoy your furry friends and take good care of them. Do everything in your power to help the live and long and healthy life. Work to prevent disease rather that waiting until your pet is very ill to seek help from your veterinary. We want to enjoy these beloved animals for as long as possible.

Come in and meet the doctors and staff at VCA Highlands Animal Hospital, 3451 Elkhorn Blvd. North Highlands, CA 95660-916-332-2845