Let's get real for a second. College is difficult. That's no surprise to anyone. There are two important things that can truly relieve stress at a moment's notice: food and dogs. However, none of us can really pull off those gourmet meals while in college, so that leaves our beloved floof babies to get us through. There is a flood of feelings that rushes in when experiencing the beautiful essence of our canine pals. So, if you're a college student in the middle of finals week like me, take a deep breath and reminisce on the emotional roller coaster that occurs every time you get the pleasure of interacting with a dog.
1. Will this long and painful semester ever end?
Seriously. I don't see a finish line even remotely close enough. I'm tired 24/7. I'm hangry. I want to be doing anything but thinking about my grades.
2. Walking around campus like:
This is pretty self-explanatory.
3. Suddenly, you catch the jingle of a collar, a small bark, or a wagging tail:
Please don't let me be imagining things. Please let this actually be a dog near me.
4. Your suspicions were correct:
Oh, my goodness. I cannot believe I am the luckiest person on the planet at this very moment. There it is! The most innocent and loving creature to ever walk the Earth is right in front of me.
5. Oh no. Do I ask to pet the pup, or should I leave them alone?
This has to be one of the most difficult internal conflicts a person can have. On one hand, I don't want to bother the owner. On the other hand, I need this.
6. When you realize you have to take a chance:
I got this. The worst they can say is "no." I can cry about it later, but right now I need to exude confidence.
7. You start to creepily inch your way toward the owner to ask permission:
This part is super important. Don't be that person who just goes for it and makes everyone uncomfortable. And do not, under any circumstances, make any sudden movements that might disturb the nice human or the beautiful pup. Prepare yourself for the answer...
8a. The owner says, "Yes!" Proceed to stage 9:
OH. MY. GOSH.
8b. The owner said, "No, I'm sorry." This is the end of the journey:
Play it cool. Don't make the owner feel bad. Accept the verdict, and proceed appropriately. Regardless of the answer, tears will probably ensue.
9. Going in for the pets:
I'm internally exploding, but I have to go slow. The pup will probably want to sniff me out, so I have to go at their pace. Don't ruin this. Please, don't ruin this.
10. Making contact:
I have never felt more alive. This might be the fluffiest floof to ever exist. The tail is wagging, and happiness is all I know. (Bonus: If you get puppy kisses, game over. You have won.)
11. Unfortunately, you can't indulge in this moment forever. You have to say goodbye:
Make you live a healthy and enriched life, little angel. I'll be sending you good treats and belly rubs from my little corner of the universe.
12. The aftermath:
I am a hodgepodge of human emotion. How can one person feel all of this at once? How long until I get my next puppy fix?
To all of the dog owners who say, "no," we understand. But to all of the dog owners who say, "yes," you will never know what you've done for us. Thank you.
