Everyone knows the saying, ‘Dogs are a man’s (and woman’s) best friend,’ but I have come to realize that they are much more than loyal companions—they also act as some of life’s best teachers.
From having such playful spirits to offering wisdom in unexpected ways, they are able to teach us lessons that go far beyond “sit” and “stay,” typically without us even realizing it in the moment. Since our dogs aren’t regretting the past or worrying about the future like most of us, they embrace the now, which serves as just one quality of theirs that can be a powerful reminder to slow down and appreciate what’s right in front of us.
From my family’s first dog to the two that followed (German Shepherds), we have had the privilege of having them with us through various stages. Before my brother and I came into the picture, my parents had a dog, Tigger, who played an irreplaceable role in their lives. My parents often tell stories about their adventures with her, sharing her unique personality. A great example that sums her up as a dog would be her getting out of the house down the shore, and my parents finding her a few houses down just hanging out and getting food from the neighbors. Not only did she constantly cause laughter and joy to everyone around, but she gave my parents a glimpse into the world of parenthood.
When my second dog, Summer, entered our lives, I was just a toddler, but she quickly became more than just a pet. She became a strong presence that would stay with me throughout some of the most formative years of my life. I will never forget all of the memories of playing in the backyard, to the days of her always being right at the door when my brother and I got home from school. She was always a constant source of comfort and company for not only my family, but anyone who has been to our home. After growing up with Summer, it was hard to think about ever having a different dog, but I knew something was missing with no dog in the house.
A few years later, after more convincing than one could imagine, I noticed my mom finally looking into getting a puppy. The searching brought us to finding Luna, who has been such a fun addition to our family. I will never forget how shy and calm she was on the drive home that first day, to how fast her lively and sparky personality came out during the next few weeks. She is now 3 years old, always nudging us to play, or to let her outside to run around even if she was just out, and is always keeping herself active and involved. On Christmas, she is always so into unwrapping her gifts so fast that she then insists on helping everyone else with theirs. She has been a constant reminder to enjoy the simple things in life, as she is always so happy and energetic, trying to play and interact, and always finding a way to make us laugh. She also allows me to not take some things too seriously, as after any type of day I’ve had, I know I am coming home to her, waiting there for me with a toy, to start playing the second I walk through the door.
With my love for dogs my whole life, my family and I have always watched with glee the National Dog Show Presented by Purina, and I have also attended the Dog Show at the Expo Center in Oaks, PA! Core memories were made at the dog show I attended about 10 years ago, seeing so many kinds of dogs while spending quality time with my family.
With my internship at Vizion Group Public Relations this spring, it is a full circle moment to be part of what goes on behind the scenes to make the dog show happen!
Make sure to tune in to the National Dog Show Presented by Purina, on Thanksgiving Day from 12–2 p.m. in all time zones on NBC. I know I will be watching with Luna by my side, trying to play of course. Also, come see these dogs in person, like I was able to, at the dog show in Oaks on November 15-16! Tickets will be available at www.nds.nationaldogshow.com in early June.