I LOVE DOGS! I love my darling Cats too!!
All that know me well, know my passion for animals. In my office at DeHOFF REALTORS, the joke has been that I drive around in between real estate appointments and look for stray dogs. Some even have taken the joke a step further and say folks had better keep their dogs in the home, as I am out stealing them. Of course it is all in jest. In the humor, the sad fact is that I often return to my office with a "found this dog" story. On occasion it may happen twice within a couple week period. The fact is that you do not have to look to hard to see a stray dog running loose. I always have a dog lease and collar in my vehicles. I know many besides myself just can't allow a dog to remain on the run and risk it's safety. I have had others stop their cars to offer assistance in getting the dog secure. That is human nature at it's best!
I received an email this morning from a fellow dog lover. I could not resist sharing the thoughts it offered about a dog's loyalty and intelligence. It had a picture of a massive sized dog named Brutus. Brutus is a military K9- part Boxer and part British Bull Mastiff. The story says that he was a loyal and well trained dog. Brutus won the Congressional Medal of Honor last year from his tour in Iraq. Apparently the dog was trained with sign language. The story speaks of an extremely dangerous situation for his handler and other soldiers-a hostage situation- that could have been the soldier's demise. Brutus was clever but the details graphic, so I will spare them. The soldiers were saved and Brutus is well! The final comment was that when all is well and calm, he thinks he is a lap dog(at 200 lbs.) and even likes cats.
The bond between humans and dogs is amazing, in my opinion. Most of us know and experience that absolute joy every day! These thoughts below (in bold print), were also part of the email and so well spoken. Because I work with an animal rescue group, I am continually hopeful that all humans will come to know and understand the following. Sadly, not all do. I have been apart of those unfortunate situations. I have even picked up some of those dogs that did not get the love and understanding they deserved. I have witnessed stories from those who will easily give up a family pet that they introduced to their children because the commitment to giving that dog a "forever home" was not honored. Perhaps that taught that crying child that we are all disposable when things get difficult. Perhaps it teaches that child that a quick fix is easier than searching for solutions through understanding. I continue to be part of the solution is my own small way. I have also learned so much from my daughter Lindsay. She has given as much... and more... of that compassion to animal rescue than I have. She has volunteered with Second Chance for Animals since she was 10. She is now a College freshman studying animal science. She intends to work with wildlife research and preservation. I am proud to say that my parents, sister and I lived an example for Lindsay that inspired her to chose a life path of change. I wish that for all children-for all parents.
Remember that pets can't do a lot of things for themselves and that they depend on you to make their life a quality life!
A PET'S TEN COMMANDMENTS.........
1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Any separation from you is likely to be painful.
2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.
3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.
4. Don't be angry with me for long and don't lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.
5. Talk to me. Even if I don't understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.
6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.
7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.
8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I'm not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.
9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.
10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can't bear to watch. Don't make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.
Take a moment today to thank God for your pets. Enjoy and take good care of them.
Life would be a much duller, less joyful experience without God's critters.
Now please pass this on to other pet owners. We are surrounded by hope, love, and joyfulness; it is here on earth and has 4 legs!
posted by Pam Oster, DeHOFF REALTOR ...and animal lover! 2/11/09
Looking for a family pet? Please ADOPT RESCUE at www.petfinder.com
Looking for a Home w/bigger yard, even a fenced yard for your Fido? Shop at www.pamosterhomes.com
CALL PAM OSTER, DeHOFF REALTOR 330.936.3490
