Life Lessons from Zoey

In honor of our dog Zoey’s 14th birthday, I wanted to share some things I’ve learned from her. While dogs aren’t human, they do know a whole lot about life. Whether they're romping in fresh snow or rolling over for belly rubs, our canine companions tend to savor each moment life gives them. 

If we paid closer attention, we'd realize dogs are basically spiritual gurus who can guide us on the path to enlightenment. They always give more than they take and are imbued with a wisdom so beyond the obvious. 

Here are some of the best life lessons I’ve learned from Zoey: 

CONNECTION IS KEY 

Zoey loves to be touched and it’s probably my favorite thing about her. When Zoey wants someone to pet her she will snuggle right up to you and use her paw to get your attention, and if you stop petting her she will use her paw again to let you know she’s not quite satisfied. Even if I’m distracted and not paying much attention to her, when she wants that physical connection, she will let it be known. 

Zoey has taught me that even on our busiest days, it’s good to remember the value of touch and connection. She regularly reminds me that connection, whether it be a hug, a gentle touch or kind word, is key and can make all the difference. Though we’re different creatures, we all need connection with others.

FORGIVE - DON’T HOLD A GRUDGE 

If I get upset with Zoey, she’s over it in 10 seconds. For example, the other day when she wouldn’t stop barking at absolutely nothing, I had to raise my voice to tell her to stop. Has she forgotten I yelled at her already or has she forgiven me? Either way, it’s in the past and she doesn’t let it affect the rest of our day or our relationship.

She’s taught me that there’s no point in holding a grudge. Zoey isn’t bitter or angry about what's come before. To her, today is a good day, and that's all that counts. Be forgiving. Yes, dogs really are one of the most forgiving species out there—that's just part of what makes them such good role models. We humans could learn a thing or two from dogs about forgiveness and letting go of grudges. 

BE PERSISTENT 

If someone stares at you long enough, you’ll have to give in. While uncomfortable staring contests might be awkward in the real world, a dog’s persistence is unquestionable. Zoey is a master at this, and it works for Zoey with food all the time. I often give in and give her little pieces of vegetables (she LOVEs cucumbers, broccoli and peas) and meat if she’s lucky. She’s got it figured out and knows that if she’s persistent, she will get what she wants. Solid life advice there - keep working for what you want and do not give up!

EXPRESS GRATITUDE 

Being happy comes down to focusing on what you have, rather than what you don't. But for humans, that's easier said than done. That's because we're programmed to take the good for granted and brood over the bad instead. But not Zoey. Every time we feed her, she reacts as though it's the first time she’s ever seen food. Every time we walk in the door, even if it’s coming in from a walk or in from outside, she is excited to see us. Zoey reminds me that even though something may be routine, I should always take time to appreciate that it's a part of my life.

JUST BE 

We live in a world that suggests we need to do more and be more. In Zoey’s world, just being is enough. Zoey’s days are pretty routine and consist of; giving & getting love, eating, walking around our property, playing (although not as much now as when she was younger) and napping. Did I mention napping? She does that a lot these days, especially in the sun!

While her days might seem boring, she seems perfectly content. Zoey does what she wants, when she wants, and has no agenda. She is perfectly content living in the moment and just being! No pressure to achieve, no pressure to do more. 

Dogs are true masters in the art of mindfulness, and they can inspire us to fully take in each moment as well. While that might not be possible all the time as humans, it is worth striving for. This might be the most important life lesson I’ve learned from Zoey, she’s so good at being present! As I continue my journey I want to be more like Zoey and focus more on being and less on doing, and hopefully take more naps in the sun! 

LOVE UNCONDITIONALLY 

This can be a challenge for humans but not for dogs! Zoey loves without expecting anything in return. Shouldn't we all do more of that? It's not about who loves who more, or who does what for whom, it's just love for love's sake. Dogs just do this naturally. Zoey loves our tribe no matter what and accepts us wholeheartedly, flaws and all. Zoey is elated every time we walk through that door. She drops everything and runs to us and gives us her undivided attention and unconditional love and it is truly AMAZING! 

This ability speaks to that mystical wisdom that dogs have. Don’t get me wrong, I know they make questionable decisions. For example, the strange items they think they should eat - YUCK! However a dogs’ ability to simply accept their people and love their people without ever trying to alter or “fix” their people is something that most humans have yet to master. Where we get caught up in expectations and perceptions, dogs see what is and accept it with unconditional love. It is perhaps the most amazing phenomenon that exists. If we could all love like our dogs do the world would be a better place! 

I wanted to share the poem below as it’s great advice. Dogs really are small miracles of enlightenment that everyone should be in awe of. I know I am of ours!

One day I hope to be as AWESOME as my Dog!

Wishing Zoey the happiest of birthdays and many more!!

All I Need To Know About Life I Learned From My Dog 

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride. 

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them. 

Run, romp, and play daily. 

Be loyal. 

Never pretend to be something you're not. 

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. 

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. Thrive on affection and let people touch you - enjoy back rubs and pats on your neck. When you leave your yard, make it an adventure. 

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do. 

No matter how often you're scolded, don't pout - run right back and make friends. Bond with your pack. 

On cold nights, curl up in front of a crackling fire. 

When you're excited, speak up. 

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body. 

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk. 

If you stare at someone long enough, eventually you'll get what you want. Don't go out without ID. 

Leave room in your schedule for a good nap. 

Always give people a friendly greeting. 

If it's not wet and sloppy, it's not a real kiss. 

Author: Unknown