Learning

Money taught me a lot in the years we spent together. My capacity for love, compassion, patience, and appreciation grew. But I am finding that he is teaching me even now. I see animals differently and the relationship we have or should have with them. As I entertain the idea of a new dog I watch people and the animals in their charge closer than ever. My understanding of them has grown. I had heard many times before that an animals behavior is in result of the human. It is more apparent than ever and frightens me. A lot of people do not seem to have the tools to teach their pets and fulfill their lives. Just watch the dog whisperer or dog town. People treat animals as objects and do not give much consideration to their well being and breed. Hence so many animals end up at shelters or on the street or in need of behavior 911. I am in no means perfect but as I do with most things I desire as much information on the breed of dog I fancy and the species in general. An animal is a life and a responsibility. Not a toy. It is as deserving of respect and happiness as anyone of us. I have always loved dogs but I think I am becoming an enthusiast. They look to us. Man's best friend. What do we show them?

The range of needs and personalities is as much as the variety in the human population. Their history and breeds for protection, hunting, tracking, herding, companionship, etc are quite interesting to me. This new appreciation stems from my love for the Mo Man and wanting to be an adequate parent to whomever I adopt next.

I was discussing my new found appreciation of dogs the other day. I had not put much thought into what dogs represent symbolically. duh. Two possible aspects were presented. The bestial side of man or possibly the ego. As an extension of myself what would it be? Not quite there yet but I did consider that with so much thought and preparation that maybe I am attempting to better care and understand parts of myself. (lightbulb time) I like this idea but it gives me chills to think about my poor fish tank and my unending battle with algae. (deeper unconscious parts anyone?) I now have a vision of Money with a little yoda jacket on teaching me even in death. He was and is so special and I am even more thankful to have had him. I don't want to miss any part of this.

My sister recently lost her dog Two Tone. She did an amazing and honorable thing. She made the toughest decision in Two Tones best interest when most people selfishly would not have. She asked me if I ever see Money. I do. I did tonight. I was putting recycling in the container after walking in the house. When I turned around he was standing behind me wagging his tail with the "welcome home, what are we doing now". I am glad he is still around.