Have a Bad Day? Butch Says Take a Lesson from Fido!

Did you ever have one of those days when everything goes wrong? I guess just about everyone has experienced days like that. But even if you make it through with no problems, the world we live in today can result in excessive stress. Many people are ‘”on the go” from morning till night … run, run, run … hurry, hurry, hurry … no time to relax or take a break … So many things on your mind that you can’t even sleep at night. I have been down that road many times. At age 76, I still work full time and experience some stress. But a few years ago, I learned some valuable lessons … from my dog, and my life is much happier. Pay attention to your dog, and you can learn many things. An unknown author listed the following:

(1) Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride, and allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

(2) When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

(3) Take naps and always stretch before rising.

(4) Run, romp and play daily.

(5) Be loyal.

(6) Never pretend to be something you’re not.

(7) When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.

(8) Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

(9) Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

(10) On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.

(11) Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

(12) When it’s in your best interest, always practice obedience.

(13) If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

(14) When you are happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

(15) No matter how often you are criticized, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends.

I had a pet dog when I was a little boy …”Trooper,” a Boston Terrier with a crooked tail. The breeder couldn’t sell him, so he gave the dog to my brother and me. He was an active little fellow, and tagged along with us all over the farm. My wife and I have owned numerous dogs during the 58 years we have been married, and we have enjoyed all of them. We currently have three … Ollie, a Golden Doodle, Sofie, a Boston Terrier and our newest addition, Charley, a Shih-tzu / Bichon mix. We love them all, and they are like members of the family. Sometimes we complain when we realize how much we spend on dog food and treats each week, but … oh well, they’re worth it!

When we arrive home each evening …. no matter how the day has gone … our three little doggies are waiting to greet us … barking, and jumping, and wagging their tails. We agree with what one person said … “Dogs have given us their absolute all. We are the center of their universe. We are the focus of their love and faith and trust.” Yes, my wife and I have invested a lot of time and love … and money … in our dogs over the years, but it has been worth it. You likely feel the same way about your dog.

Dogs are faithful companions. They care about you even when some humans don’t. There have been instances of dogs saving people in a family even if it costs them their lives. There are many stories of dogs which are lost or abandoned traveling hundreds of miles to return home. And dogs who have stood watch over a grave, loyal to their owner even after death. Dogs don’t ask for much … a kindly word, a pat on the head, a walk down the road, and perhaps a tasty treat … and you become their loving master.

Shed some of that stress tonight. Learn a few things from Fido … and while you’re at it, give him an extra pat on the head and a big hug.

John “Butch” Dale is a retired teacher and County Sheriff. He has also been the librarian at Darlington the past 36 years, and is a well-known artist and author of local history.