It's a dog's life!

Just looked out the window and saw two neighbors walking their dogs, or maybe saw two dogs walking the neighbors. It's easy for an animal to turn the tables on an emotional level.

Comic Paula Poundstone said that she was "one failed relationship away from being one of those women with 15 dogs." Many people with emotional problems accumulate pets and dote on them like they were their children. It's easy to fall into that pattern.

Someone said "to err is human, to forgive Canine." There's a lot of truth in this. You can kick a dog in the slats and treat it poorly and it will come back for a rub, and give you a lick, and repay your cruelty with a show of love and affection. Better, of course, that you treat all animals with love and respect. Modern civilization owes much to the dog and the horse, and the dog continues to play a mighty role in today's society. If you are an emotionally balanced individual you will bond with your dog and he/she will be an integral part of your family. A wonderful example, in fact, of unquestioned love and loyalty.

Take things too far and you end up with dogs in swimwear and sun glasses at the beach, and fur coats and boots in the winter. Dogs that sleep in your bed and eat at your table. Having a dog in your life can make and keep you well. It can also amplfy your emotional neediness and promote antisocial behaviour. Don't bring a dog into your life if you are not ready for the responsibilities attached and if you lack the emotional stability to keep the role it will play in your life to a calm, sane, and loving relationship.

Be well!