Dogs – Fur Babies and Their Magical Touch
I adopted my first dog, Skye, in December 1990 and have had a fur baby(s) almost every day since. They have been the light of my life, a reminder of being in the moment, and my teacher in unconditional love.
I remember going to the dog shelter not sure what I was looking for and coming upon a kennel with this little brown and black puppy who sat there quietly staring at me, head tilted, asking (without words) to take him home. I fell in love immediately. Looking up at loving hubby Gerry from my squatted position, I asked, “Can we have this one?” I didn’t know if I had to get an older dog because of my inexperience. He squatted next to me, “This is the one you want?” I nodded my innocent “yes.”
Unprepared, I held Skye in my arms the whole car ride home and then sat in our kitchen still holding him as Gerry went out to get the proper dog accouterments. I was euphoric and hopelessly in love; my heart swelled and surrounded this puppy. I was hooked and unaware of how much these animals would support me. From that day forward, dogs and fur babies will forever be in my life.
There is this feeling, knowing, and affinity for these animal beings. They personify unconditional love, delight, and joy. While I thought I was rescuing Skye, he was actually rescuing me. I was laying down on him when my water broke and my son Ryan started his journey into the world; Skye snuggled with me and was the salve that soothed my aching heart when cancer entered my world. Each subsequent fur baby helped me through my different cancer journeys, loving me when it felt hard to do so myself.
I understand this gift of dogs and fur babies. We all get to just be ourselves with them–no posturing or performing. They can bring out the best in us and also show us we can handle the worst without withholding love. How can you celebrate your fur baby today?
This month, we honor their magnificence and magical healing powers. Join us as we celebrate the Cancer Journey Institute and our fur babies (party hats optional) with a virtual “Pet Parade” on National Dog Day – Friday, Aug 26 at 9am PT. Our fur babies cannot wait to meet yours!
With abundant love and light,
Shariann
