A Basic Dog Question from an Eleven Year Old

One of the best (and worse) things about writing on the internet is the email. Sometimes, the email is a reminder of the power and reach of the internet. Over the weekend, I received a terrific note from an eleven year old girl in Norway (“hi Linnea”). She had found and read some of my dog articles. She sent me a note and asked me what was the “one real positive” about having a dog. She needed to build a strong case for campaigning her parents for her first dog. She does not care if it is a puppy or a dog from the animal shelter. She just wants a dog.

The question is basic but it certainly does make one assess. Perhaps others will have a different response but I have been thinking about this for the last couple of days. I told this young reader that I would respond here today - and I told her that others readers may have other ideas.

The “one real positive” for me is that dogs are great teachers. The person only has to stop and see the dog’s perspective. Dogs remind me to ‘enjoy the moment’. When a dog is playing and enjoying an activity, that dog allows the joy to fill the moment. Even if it is just the usual welcome-home greeting, the dog will be completely into the moment. There are no future worries or concerns. It is that present moment that is important. I think that it is an essential life lesson and one that I know I need constant reminding.

Furthermore, dogs leave us too soon. Often we take their presence for granted. They become part of our everyday routine and then, almost suddenly, the dog is a senior citizen. And even in the sadness of that, the dog reminds me. It is the moments that are important. Enjoy those moments while you can.

So Linnea, that is my answer. You can mention to your parents that I think that you would be a wonderful, caring dog owner. And I thank you for writing…and best of luck with the parents and your first dog.

Catherine