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Dolls N DreamsBeing a veterinarian, I had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker. The dog's owners, Ron, his wife, Lisa, and their little boy, Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.
I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family we couldn't do anything for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Belker's death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, "I know why."
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me. I'd never heard a more comforting explanation.
He said, "People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life --like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?" The six-year-old continued, "Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."
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Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply. Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.
Be loyal. Never pretend to be something you're not.
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.
Be always grateful for each new day.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY !
puca bearsNice one Tami, and so true.....she says, wiping away the tears.......
thanks
huggies
Maria
Chaska, MinnesotaVery sweet...words from the young can be so right!
Oh Tami, that is just the best explanation I have ever heard...thank you so much for posting this.
Hugs,
Krista
LuxembearsBeautiful story Tami. 
:hug: Sometimes it's really amazing how a young person's perspective is so simple, yet so deeply meaningful and fresh. Thanks for sharing.
dusty attic bearsahhhhh That made me cry
PawssiblesWonderful, we all need to remember the wisdom here. Brought tears to my eyes. Thanks for another great story. 
Apple Dumpling Designs
I can think of a few people who should read this and take it to heart...although I doubt they would even get it.
Thank you for sharing Tami. You find the most wonderful animal "stuff"...you must just be a magnet for it. 
Swan Valley BearsSo sweet, I sent it to my loved ones.
Past Time Bears
Oh Tami .. How beautiful ... it has made me cry too. I won't forget that little story. Thank you.
Marilyn
Charlotte Des Roches DesignsThank you for sharing that Tami...tears here for sure...out of the mouths of babe's come such wisdom!
Hugs &
Newcastle, OntarioTami - thank you! Perfect wisdom, just perfect!
hugs,
Brenda
