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Pets As Therapy

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Sherry

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Does anybody else out there rely on their pets to help keep them 'sane'? I have a little dog called Holly. She is a mini-foxy X chihuaha. An absolutely gorgeous little girl of 4.5kgs, and full of love and devotion. She is now 7 years old. She can pick my moods so well, and is always there when I need to feel comforted.

A couple of weeks ago when I was at a particularly low point, I wrote the following poem about her. Now ... I do not claim to be a poet, so please do not be too critical of my lack of poetic prowess. But it is the sentiment that counts, and this is how I felt at the time, and in fact often do. I hope you like it and perhaps can relate to it also. I would love to hear about anybody elses pets as well.

My Little Dog Holly
I'd been wanting a little dog, but my hubby said no ... way too much trouble.
Then I spotted you one day, in a car alongside mine.
You looked sad and dejected .... the way I felt.
You were just eight months old at the time.

A skinny underfed little mutt you were.
As I peered into the window, your eyes looked intently into mine.
Emotional tears caused my vision to blur,
as I considered the unlikely possibility that our lives may entwine.

When your owner returned to the car ... we talked,
and I discovered that something was wrong.
It seems you weren't wanted,
that you didn't get along.

I wanted to give you a more loving home to stay.
So I asked your owner if she'd let you go, hoping this wasn't folly.
Yes she said ... please take Tootsie away!
So home we went, you and I, where I renamed you Holly.

I worried what hubby would say, when I arrived home with you.
So I drove home feeling anxious, hoping he'd allow you to stay.
But you soon won him over with your enthusiasm and charm.
When I asked if I could keep you, he grudgingly said that I may.

So now I had my little dog, whom I could call my own.
You quickly made a permanent home, of our humble abode.
Such a sweet natured and obedient little girl you are.
Though shy and sensitive, your unique personality has always showed.

When I'm home alone and feeling vulnerable,
I know I can rely on you to alert me, when someone is around.
Your bark conveys a lot, and I'm able to tell ... whether it's friend or foe.
So there's no need for me to panic, at every little sound.

When I awaken in the dark of night,
breathless and shaking in fright.
You crawl closer and snuggle up tight,
helping to 'ground' me, until I can again see the light.

When I'm sad or afraid, and unable to prevent tears from falling,
you're always right beside me, pressing your little body close.
As if to remind me, that you're right there and could use a cuddle.
That I'm not entirely alone, and shouldn't feel morose.

When I arrive home after being out,
you're always there to greet me, giving your all.
I cannot help but smile,
as your love and devotion is so unconditional.

When you look so knowingly into my eyes,
what is it there that you seek?
There are times you appear so wise,
what would you tell me, if you could speak?

I may not be here now, if not for you.
You give me a reason each day ... to live.
Your joy of life helps me to view,
life's simple pleasures from your perspective.
 
Just beautiful!!!
Thanks Maria. I just put a picture of Holly as my profile pic, so that everyone can see her too. She's a funny little thing - big ears, big promenant eyes, a little button nose. But totally gorgeous. I guess I am a little biased. ;)
 
Lol...I honestly wouldn't show up with a little dog no matter what a sweetie she is...however, I totally agree with animal therapy. Definitely creates a special bond and trust. Molly will always be happy to see you and just love your company. She'll trust you and keep all your secrets.

I'm so glad you found her. Sounds like you found each other.
 
Lol...I honestly wouldn't show up with a little dog no matter what a sweetie she is...however, I total...
Yes, very true, stp2012. Holly and I do have a special bond, and I guess it could be said that we found each other. Destiny perhaps?
 
I absolutely do- they my have kept me alive, considering certainly a notable component of my damage was due to loss of dogs.

I have 4 dogs now, all help me immensley... 2 pygmy goats, 4 barn cats, 3 horses.... no make that 3 and a new beautiful buckskin quarterhorse colt my wife just bought me today as a new therapy tool- rescued from a slaughter plant.

And about 20 egg chickens I refuse to allow my wife to kill. I love all these knuckleheads, especially my lil' cockapoo.

In fact I'd say it's not only the animals, it's the western life all together.... tied to the land, animals, neighbor's, lifestyle, no more city, shitty drivers, bullshit, people!
 
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