Special to The Star-Herald
I went away last weekend for the whole weekend. Yes, it was nice to get away, but I missed my animals terribly. My husband was home with them, and still, I worried. Isn’t that silly? I didn’t worry that they weren’t taken care of, but I worried because I wasn’t the one doing it. Did they miss me? Did Zoe sleep on the bed? Of course, they survived without me. I just can’t help myself. I have been known to go on vacation and search out people with dogs so I can get my “fur fix.” The need to pet an animal is so calming. They respond so positively to our gentle touch, and it is proven that petting an animal actually lowers our blood pressure. Animals ask for so little but they give so much. I honestly cannot imagine what my life would be without my critters. When I am upset, just petting or brushing is calming to both of us.
Many people see my pets as a burden; they are just so much work. I see them as therapy (obviously I feel I need a lot of therapy!). My pets are more to me than something I own, and I feel sorry for the person who has never allowed themselves to know the love of a pet … the human/pet bond. There is nothing more beautiful than the bond between pet and child. Innocent beings giving unconditional love. That is why is it so important to teach children at a young age how to properly care for and treat a pet.
I hear a lot of people say, “I just don’t have time to train my dog.” Training isn’t something you do and then stop. Training is a life long, on-going process. Every interaction you have with your dog you learn something about them and they learn about you. Take a moment to think about it. When you go out the door, if you allow your dog to bust through and run into the yard, he will continue to do so, but if you take a moment, make him sit and wait, then you have taught your dog an appropriate behavior. A lot of training can be accomplished with treats and praise, it is a matter of us being the leader and making the rules and being consistent in enforcing them. You have to be the one to decide what behaviors you are willing to live with and which ones you are not.
Enjoy your pets! If you are looking for a friend for life, please visit the Central Aroostook Humane Society. We are open from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday or give us a call at 764-3441.
Please be responsible and have your pets spayed or neutered.
