If a dog were the teacher, we would learn things like:

–Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.

–Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

–When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

 

–When it’s in your best interest, practice obedience.

–Let others know when they have invaded your territory.

–Take naps and 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 is buried, dig until you find it.

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

–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’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

–Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

–No matter how often you are scolded, don’t buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back and make friends.

–When your friends haven’t figured out the object of the game, give it up. No sense in everyone getting tired!

 

 

 

–HOW TO LIVE A GOOD LIFE, as told in the following story:

A veterinarian was called to examine a 10yo Irish Wolfhound name Belker. The dog’s owners Ron and Lisa and their little boy Shane were all very attached to Belker and were hoping for good news. The vet found that the dog was dying of cancer and told the family there was nothing to be done for Belker. He offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As the arrangements were being made, Ron and Lisa told the vet they thought it would be a good idea for 6yo Shane to observe the procedure. They felt he might learn something important from the experience.

The next day, the vet was surrounded by the family as he started the procedure. Shane seemed so calm, petting the beloved dog for the last time. The wise veterinarian wondered if Shane really understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.

The young boy seemed to accept Belker’s transition without any difficulty or confusion. He and the adults sat together for a while, wondering aloud about the seemingly sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, spoke up, “I know why.”

Startled, they all turned to him. What he said next stunned them all. No one, not even the worldly veterinarian, had heard a more comforting explanation. He said, “People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life – like loving everyone all the time and being nice, right?” The 6yo continued, “Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.”

No one was ever the same. Not Shane, not Ron, not Lisa and certainly not the vet. He said it changed the way he lived and worked from that day forward.

And I agree! Lesson learned! Well done Belker!