Dear People Who Judge How Much I Love My Dogs,
You don't understand. When I was younger, my family never had dogs. My mom was always afraid that my sister or I would end up allergic to our pets, and she'd end up having to give away the animals she loved. I never understood the connections people had with their animals, or the complexity behind the dog/human relationship. Maybe I thought dog owner's actions towards their animals were irrational, or unnatural, because they animated their dogs into actual humans rather than the animals that they were. Basically, I didn't understand, just as you don't understand now.
When I was 18 years old, my family got their first puppy. My sister cried because she couldn't bear parting with the tiny white maltese we saw at the flea market, of all places. This puppy grew to become my best friend and my greatest confidante. From then, we adopted two more dogs of differing breeds. They're spoiled rotten, of course, but we spoil them because they truly are a part of our family.
I can't explain the relationship between dogs and humans with words. The best way I can put is is like the connection of symbiosis. For those of you who don't know what symbiosis is, it's the mutual beneficent relationship between two organisms. I don't know if I can scientifically state 100 percent that the relationship is truly symbiotic, but what I do know is dogs and humans both mutually provide the other with their needs. We provide dogs with food, shelter, and comfort. In exchange, dogs offer us a sense of purpose and maternal instinct.
I know, I know, you want to lecture me on my "fur babies." Trust me, it's not like that. I do call my dogs my babies, but I don't mean it in a, "you're a human baby substitute" kind of way. What I mean is, my dogs provide me with a great sense of purpose and responsibility. I know I need to consider their needs when I'm out and about, such as feeding and taking them out. I want them to be comfortable and safe, and grow to be well-mannered dogs.
Whenever I'm sad or need someone to listen to me, I know I have puppy kisses to give me comfort. Some people think dogs cannot feel or emote. If you look deeply into a dog's eyes while looking at an upset owner, you'd know the contrary is true. Emotion truly can be expressed in the eyes and face of a dog. When you hurt, they hurt. When I was Facetiming my sister earlier, my dog heard my voice and started looking for me. If that isn't love, I don't know what is.
I love my dogs because they're my family. I can't imagine never seeing their adorable furry faces or receiving a lick from their wet tongues. It's so corny, but I love my dogs. They're the greatest and I can't fully explain why. Other dog owners know what I mean, but for those who don't understand, it's truly your loss.
Sincerely,
Dog Lover
