In the
movie Marley & Me, an unfortunate event occurred during a nine
week prenatal check-up when Jennifer Grogan discovers her anticipated baby is
stillborn. In grieving the loss for her unborn child, Marley the family
dog senses something is painfully wrong. He goes to Jennifer’s side and
rests his muzzle on her lap in a consoling gesture of sadness and compassion
(Marley & Me, 2009). This quite drama and emotionally driven scene is
a somber reminder of how dogs and humans interact; a dog expressing empathy for
his brokenhearted master in a meaningfully sincere, yet unspoken kind of way.
Although dogs may not always understand, they can sense when people are sad.
My dogs and I
walk twice a day, for at least a half hour because we need the exercise and
because they require my personal time and attention. The walk is an act
of intimacy in dog psychology. These times are simple, yet profound; it
is routine, yet necessary. The walk is an appropriate time for me to
maintain the standards I uphold as a pack-leader. The walk is a time when
my voice is heard, my commands are expressed and nothing less than an obedient
canine response is appropriately accepted. The walk affirms our pack
identity and our values.
Cesar Milan, a guru dog
trainer, teaches dog owners the technique of dog psychology with an emphasis on pack-leadership. His goal is teaching the
dog owner how to achieve balance and harmony between owner and dog. One
of Caesars’ famous quotes include; “If
you love your dog; walk your dog” (Cesar’s Way, 2007). My Queensland Heeler and my
Australian Shepherd are bred to herd livestock and work the ranch. They
exude levels of high energy that cannot be ignored or subdued. When they
are neglected, they bark with a healthy sense of attitude until pack leader
responsibilities are fulfilled. My dogs know the difference between
routine exercise and a good playtime activity. They are happiest when
their needs are satisfied.
I welcome any thoughts you may have regarding dog ownership.
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