Lessons from a Labrador

The words of this article come from Jasmine, the chocolate lab that has been my furry friend since middle school. Through her "dog's-eye" view, Jasmine has managed to come up with a few lessons that all of us human readers should think about. So without further ado, here's a letter from the perspective of my canine companion.

Dear Humans,

Hello! Jasmine here. Here are a few things you should keep in mind:

1. Be Open to New Friends...Even the Mailman

Don't run away at the first sight of a new person, even if they're as scary as the mailman. Whenever a new person comes to my house, I give them a HUGE bark and then go hide, just in case! But when I'm brave enough to come out and say hello, I gain someone new to scratch my ears and rub my tummy. New friends can be lots of fun. They usually smell strange and exciting, and sometimes they know different places to walk to than anyone else you know! Just remember to stop barking and start letting them in.

Unless they're cats, of course.

2. Don't Be Fooled By the Garbage Can

When I was younger, I used to stick my head in the trash can when my family wasn't home. There were so many tasty things in there to eat-- it was just like a buffet! But when my family got home, they were SO MAD. Worse, my stomach was upset for days! It just goes to show that things can look pretty on the outside, but taste bad all the same. Trust your gut and your family to help you tell the difference.

3. Never Underestimate the Power of Walks

I LOVE going on walks. Sometimes I get to see squirrels or bunnies or even deer! Being outside makes me feel happy and refreshed. Even if you aren't a dog like me, everyone should go on walks with their friends. Sometimes humans talk to each other while they walk. Sometimes they even run, and I have to work hard keep up! I'm happy to go on any type of walk, because I love spending time with my humans and keeping myself fit so I can chase tennis balls.

4. Don't Be Afraid to "Paws" and Take a Breather

Sometimes, dogs just need a break! My favorite spot to lay down is on the soft carpet of the dining room. While I'm sitting there, I dream of squirrels and bunnies and wait for my people to come home. You humans are so busy that I'm sure you feel "dog tired" sometimes. Find your own spot of carpet and take a "paws" every once in a while. Some people use music or reading or painting to help, but the most important thing is to relax. It'll help you rest up for a rousing game of fetch later in the day!

5. New Toys Only Last a Few Days

Whenever I get a toy, I am SO EXCITED. I run around with it, squeak it and rip it to shreds! It's SO FUN. But then I don't have the toy anymore, because I used it all up, and I have to get another one. And then another one. It seems like no matter how hard I try to keep up, there's always a newer toy out there. Usually, I just stick with my trusty bone, my rubber Kong, and my tennis ball. Even though all the shiny new toys look cool, they can't ever replicate the fun I have playing fetch with my family in the backyard. Don't let your obsession with shiny new toys distract you!

6. Pursue Your Passions Doggedly!

I LOVE fishing. I stand in the water and I stare down below the surface, watching those slippery little guys swim around my legs. I can do that for, like, eight hours a day. Sometimes I even annoy my family with how much I want to go fishing, because they insist on doing silly things like eating breakfast or getting dressed first. What do you love? What would you be excited to do for eight hours every day? Find your passion and then go for it, no matter what the pesky humans say.

7. Once You Find Your Family, Never Let Them Go.

I've lived with my family for the past six or so (human) years, and I'm so happy they gave me a home. I make sure my family knows I love them every day, with lots of barks and cuddles! Even though they have to go away sometimes to work and school, I make sure I'm waiting for them when they come back home. If I could talk, I would definitely say "I love you." Anyone who's reading this probably can talk, so are you making sure you're saying those words to the people you love? Are you spending time with them? Do they know you'll always be there for them, no matter what? Maybe I'm just a clueless canine, but I think that those things are "doggone" important!

Have a great day! Keep those tails wagging!

Love, Jasmine