When I was a little girl all I ever wanted in the whole world was a puppy. Is that so much to ask? Just a little puppy that would cuddle up with me at night, and follow me around during the day, and be my constant, devoted companion.
Well, I didn't actually get a puppy until I was around 12. My mother finally relented - and let me have my first German-Shepard/Collie mix. I was sooooo delighted, I can still remember the thrill of it all. I took this gift very seriously. I trained Missy (ok, I wasn't very original at choosing a name) every day. I taught her to come when she was called. I taught her to sit and lie down and to stay. I read all the doggie books on how to train a puppy, and I spent hours with her, making sure she would behave. Of course, we (mostly) fed her Purina dog food.
For many, many years - she truly was my constant companion. She followed me everywhere (except to school - now, why couldn't she come to school with me?). Everyone knew that if they invited me over, I would be bringing my dog. "Me and My Dog," that's how it was. And, no one minded. Because Missy was such a well-trained dog, she was almost invisible.
Kids just naturally take to pets. These days, I have Carmel (the Shepard/Lab mix) and Pandora (alternately known as Wabby Wibby, the tortoiseshell cat) and although they don't go everywhere with me, they are with me almost all day every day. Since I work at home, my pets are always by my side. Ok...Pandor favors sleeping on the sofa when she isn't meowing to be fed, but Carmel lies right by my feet. And, if I get up to go in the other room, or downstairs to check on Tom, she's right there at my heels. Like a shadow.
I can't imagine not having a dog or a cat. I often dream of having more dogs and cats. But, my schedule is so hectic, I just don't feel right adding more pets to the mix, just yet.
Missy lived a good life. She had to be put down while I was away at college - and though I was sad and angry at the time, I wonder if that was best. If I'd been home - I would have fought to keep her. Yet, I think she was ready to go.
Studies actually show that having pets is good for kids. If they're taught responsibility, as they should be. Having pets introduces relaxation into the household - because it's relaxing to sit with your dog or cat and just pet them, while they burrow into you for more. Having pets can brighten a child's outlook on life and teach her to reach outside of herself for love and attention. Dogs and cats are just great additions to any family.
So, when it comes to kids and pets, or pets and kids, shouldn't adults take a lesson and let the love shine through? If you're thinking of bringing a pet into the household this year, or next, visit this site and...after you get done laughing at the great pics, read the FAQs. It's well worth it.
Happy pet hunting!
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