In my 22 years on this planet nothing has ever taught me more about responsibility, discipline, and love like being a dog owner has.
No school, job, or class can teach you what a dog can. If you are also a dog owner, you know that dogs are some of life's best teachers.
Here are 11 of the most important life lessons my dogs have taught me:
1. Make sure the people in your life are never lonely.
Even when they are trying to bathe, or pee, or read, or sleep, or do any other activity usually done alone.
2. Help the student you care for study.
Even if you know nothing about strengths perspective and critical theory.
3. There is always time for a nap.
Even when you have things to do and places to be.
4. Stress is easily combatted by cuddling.
As is sadness, anger, melancholy, and moroseness.
5. Sometimes you just have to be patient.
Even when you are starved for attention and being ignored.
6. Always take time to stop and smell the flowers.
and pose pretty while you do it
7. Keep your chin up.
Even if it's only because you hear a squirrel outside.
8. Sometimes personal space is overrated.
Sometimes meaning all of the time.
9. Make time for your loved ones during the holiday season.
And force them to pose for embarrassing pictures.
10. Treat yourself to breakfast in bed.
Or have a treat for breakfast while you're in bed.
11. Never take yourself too seriously.
No one else will and you'll just look ridiculous and uptight.