Whether you have a dog or a cat, bird, fish or hamster, there are many joys our pets can bring throughout the year. Just as grandparents can enjoy the wonders of youth through their grandchildren, so can we all enjoy the silliness of puppies, the business of hamsters or the beauty of fish by looking with both our eyes and our hearts.
With busy schedules often taking over our lives, it can be easy to become complacent with our pets. Feed the dog, walk the dog, say “hi” to the dog when we come and go. Feed the cat, clean the litter box, pick up all the stuff he knocks down. Sometimes we may forget the very reason we got our pets in the first place.
There is no better time of year than Christmas and the New Year to remind ourselves that our pets can be so much more than just another responsibility. Taking time to really enjoy them might be something you need to remind yourself to do at first, but after a few times it will become something you look forward to.
For example, on a cold and windy day, most of us are not particularly in the mood to go outside and play fetch. But once you bundle up and head out with your dog, the joy in his eyes when he play bows, saying “I’ll get it,” is sure to bring warmth that counteracts the weather. For active dogs and puppies, an additional benefit is that he may also be ready to rest and relax when you return indoors after an invigorating game of ball.
Cats can be really fun to watch when you think of them as miniature lions. Take a few minutes to get out your cat’s favorite ribbon and play for a few minutes. It’s quite entertaining to watch how they stalk the string and then pounce on their “prey.”
Even hamsters, which may seem like noisy pets who don’t do much, can be enjoyable and educational to watch. Spend some time watching what they do when you put the fresh bedding and fresh food in the cage. It’s interesting to watch them reorganize their home, hide food and fluff up their favorite sleeping spot.
By taking some time to reflect, most of us will come to the realization that pets are more than just responsibilities. Listening to your bird’s song, enjoying the serenity of your fish tank, laughing at the antics of your ferret and talking to your pets are likely to bring joy to you, your children and your pets all throughout the year.
Lori Verni-Fogarsi has been an author, speaker, small business consultant, and Certified Master Trainer for 18+ years. Her novel, “Momnesia,” (contemporary women’s fiction) has been designated a National Indie Excellence Book Awards Finalist, and her nonfiction book, “Everything You Need to Know About House Training Puppies and Adult Dogs,” has been widely acclaimed in its genre. To learn more, please visit www.LoriTheAuthor.com and join Lori on Facebook at www.facebook.com/LoriTheAuthor.
