By Sheryl Lilly Pidgeon | Editor-in-Chief, .com
A Lesson in Life from Our Furry Friends
If you’re a dog lover (and it turns out, 68% of American households are), you understand the unconditional love that your furry companion offers. They ask for so little yet give so much. I confess I wasn’t always a “pet person,” previously finding it hard to relate to those who doted excessively on their pets. However, everything changed when I began dating my husband 27 years ago. He had an oversized, almost human-like golden retriever named Brandi. The bond between David and Brandi was inseparable, and soon, I found myself smitten with both of them. Brandi became a devoted protector of our three toddlers, even when they decided to ride her like a pony. She had a wonderful life until kidney disease took her from us. Then came Patti, a spirited yet loving rescue golden mix who gave us so much love before we experienced heartbreak again. Finally, we welcomed Aspen, our robust and humorous snow-white lab who filled our home with joy and laughter during our children’s teenage years and early adulthood. Unfortunately, she lost her brave battle with cancer last year, but not without imparting essential lessons to us along the way.
Living with dogs over the years has provided me with numerous life lessons for myself and my kids. Here are some of my top favorites:
Listen More, Talk Less. Your pet seems to validate your feelings and is fully present during your monologues. Often, the best support is just being there to listen; letting others express their thoughts is vital. Venting can be an important release!
Avoid Gossip. As Emily Dickinson said, “Dogs are better than human beings because they know but do not tell.” True friendship means knowing when to keep confidences.
Demonstrate Compassion and Empathy. On tough days, you have a companion who stands by you unfailingly. Dogs seem to say, “I see your struggle; let’s face it together.”
Patience Pays Off. In our fast-paced society, dogs remind us that waiting a little while can lead to unexpected rewards (like a dropped meatball!).
Cherish a Positive Body Image. Aspen didn’t care about her size—she embraced her strength and beauty. Whenever she wanted, she’d confidently plop down on your lap, all 90+ pounds of her!
Be Fearless. Sometimes, you just have to take the plunge, but be cautious and clean up after yourself.
Be Friendly. Who can resist a cuddly, furry bundle of joy? Just remind them that licking is off the table.
Be Dependable. When my kids were young, “dog duty” was as essential as “kitchen duty” on our chore chart, teaching them responsibility and how to be counted on.
Express Gratitude and Pay It Forward. Mark Twain noted, “If you pick up a starving dog and make him prosperous, he will not bite you. This is the primary difference between a dog and a man.” Dogs remind us of our roots and the importance of appreciating those who have helped us.
Kindness Isn’t Bought. Babies are indifferent to their parents’ income or status, and pets don’t equate happiness with material possessions. They show us the true value lies in simple acts—some kibble, fresh water, and a kind gesture.
Stay Optimistic. Root for the underdog. Dogs teach us that nothing is out of reach. Even if something seems unlikely, nothing is impossible. Aspen would patiently watch me cook, hoping I might drop some food.
Prioritize Rest. Dogs sleep for about half the day. While we don’t need that much rest, the lesson about valuing downtime is invaluable.
Seize Snack Opportunities. No explanation needed—bring on the snacks!
Accept Grief. Losing a pet is profoundly painful. George Bernard Shaw said, “Heartbreak is life educating us.” It’s crucial to allow yourself—and your children—to freely express this anguish. Through such sorrow, we genuinely recognize the depth of our love.
Embrace Tears. There’s nothing wrong with crying. Allow your emotions to surface, and balance them with reflections of the positivity around you and the joy that awaits.
Learn to Let Go. Sometimes letting go is more powerful than persistence. It reminds us of our lack of control over every situation and encourages us to turn to faith, family, and friends for support.
Healing Takes Time. While it’s said that time heals all wounds, it might not apply to all pain. Healing is a journey, and while it may take time, the joyful memories remain forever.
Savor Simple Joys. Take time to appreciate the little things. Whether it’s a juicy cheeseburger, a long walk with a friend, or a warm embrace, these experiences are what life is all about.
LIVE. LEARN. LAUGH. DOUBLE DOG DARE YA! REPEAT.
