For the Love of a Dog

For many of us, our pets, especially our canine companions, have taken up a special place in our homes. This is especially true the older we get, or if we lose someone special in our lives. During the last couple of weeks, on a simple stroll through the Farmers’ Market, you would quickly see how attached we humans have become to our four-legged friends. 

Our companions come in all different sizes and colors. Actually, this is as true for the owners as it is for the dogs themselves. We’ve even seen funny tributes on social media about how some dog owners and their pets look alike.

A dog in the house can provide an owner with a sense of security, making them aware of dangers that arise. I can attest to the truth in that. Our little gal woke us out of a sound sleep at 2 AM in the morning a few years ago to let us know of a fire on the first floor of a house under construction next to us. I also interviewed a woman whose dog awoke her about six years ago when the electrical wiring shorted out in her kitchen, warning her of a very dangerous situation.

Dogs also have a unique sense for when their owners are sad or ill. When they do sense something is amiss, you will probably notice they do not wander far from their owner’s side. Instead, they cuddle up next to that individual and provide them with the emotional support that they need.

For those of us that have never had children, the presence of a dog tends to provide us with a sense of pride like parents have. It fills a void that may be missing in people who have never had kids.

Needless to say, the emotional support that a dog provides its owner cannot be understated. It is a special bond only duplicated between a parent and a child. The love and emotional support is so very special.

Having said that, the loss of a pet can be extremely taxing. According to many veterinarians, most dogs have a life span of only 12 to 14 years, and that loss is emotionally wrenching. They truly become members of our family, and the love is unconditional between pets and their human companions.

On Marco Island, we are blessed with a number of choices for veterinarians and groomers for our special pets. We are also blessed with a wonderful dog park and a great walking path around the lake at Mackle Park. Get out and enjoy a walk around the island with your four-legged friend, but remember that unfortunately canines are not allowed on the beach. Always remember to keep your dog on a leash and carry your waste bag.