During these cold winter days I spend quite a lot of time reading – anything I can lay my paws on!
The other day I found the following article in one of Their magazines, and I thought you might like to see it.

A Dog’s Purpose?
(From a veterinary’s casebook)

After I had put down a family’s very sick  pet dog, the family and I sat together for a while, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Six year-old son, Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ‘’I know why.’’

Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned us . I’d never heard a more comforting explanation. It has changed the way I try to live...
He said, ‘’People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?’’ The Six-year-old continued, ‘’Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.’’
- Live simply.
- Love generously.
- Care deeply.
- Speak kindly.

Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
- When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
- Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
- Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
- Take naps.
- Stretch before rising.
- Run, romp, and play daily.
- Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
- Avoid biting when a simple growl will do...
- On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
- On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
- When you’re happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
- Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
- Be loyal.
- Never pretend to be something you’re not.
- If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
- When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
- Enjoy every moment of every day

I intend to use this article to encourage Them to really enjoy life – as I do!

I hope you enjoy it, too.
Monty,
With a little help from Mike Baumber

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