Thursday, December 8, 2011

A look back

Before Simba and Buddha I never owned dogs. I had a guinea pig once and a cat for a brief period of time but that was it. No matter how much we begged and pleaded, my sister and I were never allowed to have a dog.
I have always adored animals. I became a vegetarian at the age of fifteen and never turned back. My furry friends were always on my mind. So even though I loved animals and especially dogs, I was also fearful of them. I was bitten by a German Shepherd mix when I was young and that scared me away from bigger dogs. For many years I was sure that I wanted to get a Pomeranian. They were cute, small and cuddly. I still think that they are adorable but I am so glad that I have my "bigger" pups.
The first day that Simba came home to us I was frightened and allergic to him! My whole body broke out into hives. I shed some tears and was scared that he was going to get big and bite me. This fear crippled me for the first few days as I adjusted to life with a puppy but it quickly went away. I was determined to be the best dog mommy I could be. I picked up all of the Cesar Milan books, watched every single episode, took my pup to class and socialized him every chance I got. I would NOT have a hostile, sad or angry dog! So while I provided these basic things for my little Simba he provided so much more for me.
I never realized how much having a dog in your life can change you. On the one hand, I lost many expensive outfits, accessories and electronics but on the other hand I gained two companions. Simba and Buddha have taught me to wake up extra early (rain, shine or bitter cold) to experience calmness and serenity. This had led to patience. Be patient as the dogs sniff every little thing and choose the perfect spot to do their business. I have had to learn the beauty of persistence as I tell Simba for the hundredth time in an hour to stop biting on the coffee table.
Every morning they are the first to greet me and they are always happy to see me. I am fortunate to have made the decision to get over my fear and embrace two amazing animals.


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