Well she did it again. Doc left me in the cold and snowy mid- west while she flew to sunny warm Florida to hang out with her friends. I knew something was up when she got out her suitcase, her bathing suit, shorts and sandals. But as usual, I stayed in denial until the last-minute when she said good-by at the veterinarians office where she boards me. I could tell she felt a little guilty, but not enough to take me with her. The reality is that I have a secret, I actually had a good time while she was gone.

Being that it is February, there are not many dogs being boarded and the few that were there were nice and quiet. I don’t want to brag, but I am popular with the staff and they think I am just about the  most perfect dog. The nice vet techs that take care of me gave me treats, hugs, extra belly rubs and played with me outside every day. What more could a dog want? They even took selfie’s of me and posted them on my Facebook page with the caption, ” We absolutely adore him!” It’s enough to give me a big ego if I’m not too careful. Now I know what famous people go through with all their fans.

Before I knew it a whole week had gone by. Doc showed up as soon as her plane landed to take me home. I have to admit I was so happy to see her that I ran over and sat on her feet so she wouldn’t leave. She gave me a big hug and a kiss on the head in return.  When you live with someone it’s easy to get on each others nerves sometimes and you can even fantasize about what it would be like without them. Time apart can help you gain some perspective and appreciate what you love about that person. I think it is true when they say distance makes the heart grow stronger.

Just for good measure, I have not allowed Doc out of my sight since we have been home. You never know when she could slip out the bathroom window with out me knowing it.

As I am sure you are all aware, tomorrow is Valentines Day. There are a few of you who scoff at this day of love, but I for one adore it. I agree that some of the holidays can turn into materialistic events perpetuated by sales and marketing if you allow it, however I have a solution……just focus on the love.

Photo by Angela Kirk

Start by thinking about the people in your life that have been there for you. That can include family, friends, teachers, coaches or mentors as no one gets through this world alone. Next get out your pen and write those people a heart-felt letter or card thanking them for how they impacted your life. Yes you heard me, I said write, no texting. Think about how that person will feel when they go to the mailbox and receive an actual piece of mail that isn’t a bill or advertising. They will open that card and know that you took time out of your day to remember them.  I get a warm and fuzzy feeling just thinking about it.

I will end with a friendly reminder, don’t forget to give a special treat to your pet tomorrow, after all we love you unconditionally 365 days a year. Happy Valentines Day!

Photo by Angela Kirk

After staying home from work for over a week because of the flood, I was informed I could return on Monday morning. I have to admit I was glad. I was getting a little squirrely being home by myself every day. There’s only so much time you can devote to watching bunnies in the yard, political drama on TV or napping. My brain was starting to turn to mush and the day I told Doc that I thought the poodle down the street was in a cult and was spying on us, she looked at me with a very concerned expression. I guess you just don’t realize how important socializing is until it is taken away from you.

It’s easy to feel isolated in this world of communication through social media and other electronics. It gives you a false sense of connection. In fact, very smart researchers have found that when we don’t engage face to face with others, it puts many of us at risk for increased physical and mental illness. Both humans and dogs are pack animals and we need to be with others and it’s so important to personally interact.

When I was at home by myself, I started to feel lonely and didn’t feel better until Doc came home from work. When I came back to work this week, I was so happy to see everyone that I could hardly contain myself. And you know what? Everyone was equally happy to see me and told me that they missed me. It not only lifted my spirits but reminded me that I have a purpose in my life.

” Communication is merely an exchange of information, but connection is an exchange of our humanity.” Sean Stephensen