This summer was my first time experiencing living with a pet, and I loved it! My dog Ru is a beagle and terrier mix, so she is full of excitement at all times! I got her as a puppy so I have seen all of her rebellious ways and long days of potty training. During the time I spent with her in the summer, she has taught me just as much as I have taught her.
Any pet lover could agree: your pet becomes family and forms its own personality over time. Although we are their caregivers, they are far from being dumb and pick up qualities that we should live by as well. So here are a few life lessons you can learn from your dog, or other pets, that can help put the value of life in perspective for you. They may be animals, but they have so much more to offer!
My Baby Ru <3
1. Love
If nothing else, your dog teaches you that love is real. They are the most dependable and caring animals! No matter how much you scold them or how mad they make you, 10 minutes later it is as if nothing ever happened. This taught me to cherish life and to forgive and forget.
Of course, dogs have life a lot easier than humans, but love has never hurt anyone! Their tails still wag just as hard every day that you come home! 9 times out of 10, there is never a dull moment with a loving, energetic dog. They easily make new friends whether it is humans or another dog; they carry love with them everywhere!
2. Mistakes Happen
If you’ve trained a puppy you know all about the accidents inside the house, like coming home to ripped up shoes! It is the worst! Sometimes you instantly regret getting a dog, but over time they learn right from wrong. Dogs have to keep trying because they understand you, but they technically can’t comprehend what you’re saying. We may not deserve second chances, but we move on and learn along the way just like they do!
3. Be Happy
More often than not, dogs are happy! They are always willing to play and run around. Outside of what is going on around them, they find the light in everything. They greet everyone with a smile and they express their feelings openly. Just like any other obstacle in life, you should stay positive through it all. Remember that you control your own happiness!
4. Patience Is Key
Some dogs may not learn as fast as others, but they are in no rush either. Dogs explore their surroundings and are stress free. As a college student, it’s important to practice time management. That doesn’t mean you have to go about life so seriously or can’t relax sometimes. Take things for what they are and don’t worry about things you can’t control. Take it from a dog, life is good, never take it for granted!
5. Be Outspoken
Dogs have no problem letting you know if something is wrong or if they are just happy. Whether it’s cuddling up beside you or barking when they want to go outside, dogs will let you know what they’re feeling. The same should go for you! If you feel a certain way, let it be known, whether it’s through your actions or verbally. Don’t be afraid to outwardly express your feelings!
In the end, just remember that life is short. My dog constantly reminds me of the little things about life that we overlook. She reminds me everyday that it can all be so simple. If you get a pet one day, you’ll see what I mean! HCXO!