Dogs are the greatest, aren't they? They're cute and fluffy and full of so much love that thinking about it makes me want to cry. I've never owned a dog. It was a rule in my house that we couldn't have anything that didn't live in a bowl. I've had numerous gold fish, beta fish, some sort of small skinny fish, and even pet rocks, but I have never experienced what it's like to own a beautiful canine. I have asked for one at every Christmas and wish for it on every birthday to no avail. I have made PowerPoints on why it would be a good choice for our family and still don't own a sweet pup. As a demonstration to my parents who won't let my dream come true, here are seven things I will never know because I don't own a dog.
1. The joy dogs feel when you come home.
2. Having someone's whole life revolve around you.
You will only have a certain dog for a part of your life, but for them, it's their entire life. You are the number one thing that matters to them. Sure, when you have a baby, they're depending on your care, but when they grow up, you are a thing of the past. Dogs need and love you forever. No matter how old they get, they will try their hardest to jump on on that couch and lay on your lap like they did when they were a just a pup.
3. Having something to look forward to every day.
Sometimes things can be rough. However, it has been proven that interacting with dogs can help reduce stress. Petting their fur and seeing how carefree they are really takes the weight off your shoulders for a while. Nothing can really go wrong with a dog by your side. They sense the type of day you were having, good or bad, and do everything they can to make it better. Sure, they pee on the carpet sometimes, but they feel really bad about it and don't want to do it again. And come on, look at that face!
4. Being listened to without judgement.
Sure, your friends say that you can tell them anything and they won't judge, but there is always a hint of opinion in everyone's voice after you tell them what you did under the bleachers last night. Dogs will never get that way with you. You can tell them all the horrible things you want, and they won't think differently of you at all. They understand that you are only human and can't be as flawless as them.
5. How it feels to be loved unconditionally.
You could be the crappiest person in the world, and dogs couldn't care less. You have to do some pretty crazy stuff to make them see you in a bad light. Murders and psychopaths have dogs that think that their owners sh*t rainbows. No matter how awful of a person you think you are, no matter how worthless you believe yourself to be, your dog will always think you are the best person in the world.
Dogs are one of the best things that were ever put on this Earth. Sure, it's not all glamour and good times, but when you look into their eyes and see how much they love you, nothing else really matters. I have never experienced any of these things because I live a dog-less life. I wish every day that this is what my life was actually like. I'm not sure when I will be able to say that I understand the joys of owning a pup, but mark my words: I will own a dog one day, if it's the last thing I do!
