“A dog has a lot of friends because he wags his tail and not his tongue.” – Anonymous
Even if they do not know it, pets can teach us a lot about life and happiness. No matter what kind of hair day we are having, how deflated we feel, or whether or not we said or did something stupid, they love us anyway. Nothing is going to keep them away from wanting to nuzzle up to you and lick your face – no matter what!
For instance, you do not need to actually have a dog to appreciate the appeal of being greeted at the door with a wagging tail, eager to greet you like you are the most important person in the world.
- Pets do not judge you and find fault — they accept you as you are unconditionally.
- Since they do not judge, they will not notice or remember what you did wrong and therefore will never remind you!
- They don’t ask for much more than the basics — food, shelter and your company – they take what they can get! Get $5 OFF On Select Varieties Of Hills Science Diet Dry Cat Food. Get Petsmart grooming coupons for saving, Buy now!
- They have mastered the art of radical acceptance and unconditional love.
- They show appreciation and can give love without expecting much in return
- They are living in the moment — they do not get hung up on what happened, what might have happened, and what might happen in the future.
Learning from what pets can teach us will keep you focused on many key ingredientsfor success in relationships and in life: love, acceptance, forgiveness, compassion, loyalty and a total focus on today.
There is also considerable evidence that pets are actually good for your health. Medical issues ranging from high blood pressure, depression and even allergies have been shown to be alleviated by having pets. Yes — even allergies!
Despite the common notion that pets and people who are allergic do not jive, in actuality studies that shown that infants who grow up in a homes with furry friends are actually are less likely to be allergic to pets. Researcher James Gem, M.D. states that actually children growing up with furred animals have less incidence of eczema and stronger immune systems. Drs. Rita and Blair Justice of University of Texas medical center even compare petting a dog with eating chocolate, claiming both have been are helpful in releasing the “feel-good” chemicals like serotonin that and other brain chemicals that they measured while studying the effects of pets on the brain.
Pets can even improve your work life. Having pets in the office have actually been shown to increase productivity as well as morale! I assume, of course, they need to be the well-behaved type!
And don’t forget (of course) that pets are a date magnet, and a wonderful social lubricant to meet friends and break into conversations with a cute focal point that already makes people smile!
So next time you want a health or social boost, or are anchored down by regrets and misgivings of the past, reach for a pet and feel good!
My question to you: Would your life be different if you followed the lessons of acceptance, unconditional love and present-centeredness that pets can teach you? If so, how? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
(Photo credit: Young Gorl Happy to Lay With Dog via Shutterstock)
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