Some thoughts to consider when you need a break from
the world of pipeline valves and strainers: Best Advice Ever: A
Dog’s Purpose From A Six Year Old Being a veterinarian, I had been
called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The
dog’s owners, Ron, his wife Lisa and their little boy, Shane, were
all very attached to Belker and they were hoping for a miracle. I
examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family
we couldn’t do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the
euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home. As we made
arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good
for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as
though Shane might learn something from the experience. The next
day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker’s family
surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the
last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on.
Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away. The little
boy seemed to accept Belker’s transition without any difficulty or
confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker’s death,
wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter
than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up,
“I know why.” Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his
mouth next stunned me. I’d never heard a more comforting
explanation. He said, “People are born so that they can learn how
to live a good life – like loving everybody all the time and being
nice, right?” The six-year-old continued, “Well, dogs already know
how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.” Live simply.
Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly. Remember, if a dog was
the teacher you would learn things like: When loved ones come home,
always run to greet them. Never pass up the opportunity to go for a
joyride. Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your
face to be pure ecstasy. Take naps. Stretch before rising. Run,
romp and play daily. Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do. On warm days, stop to lie
on your back on the grass. 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. Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you’re not. If what you want what
lies buried, dig until you find it. When someone is having a bad
day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently. – Author
Unknown –
