Man’s Best Friend
Original Publication 10/03/21
Like many good-natured people, I absolutely adore animals. More so than humans, to tell you the truth. I can't decide whether that's cynical or not... I've recently had the long overdue privilege of welcoming a furry companion into my humble existence. After having a cat for most of my life, it's been a rather unique experience.
Her name's Dakota. She's a pretty unique hybrid of Weimaraner and Vizsla, known as a Vizmaraner. A mouthful? Yeah, you're telling me. Our journey to attain her two months ago involved some minor bending of "the rules". Some may call that selfish, but we were safe, responsible and sincere in our efforts. I would argue it's actually the epitome of unselfishness.
Because bringing her into our lives is an acknowledgement we are prepared to dedicate time, patience and energy to another. My partner, her family and I have effectively given a portion of our lives to raising and training this beloved little creature. If that's not a gracious act, then I don't know what is. But for all those aforementioned variables, there's a wealth of rewards to go along with them.
Much like a parent, all dog owners love their pets unconditionally. They are adopted with specificity and a unique sense of purpose. Whether raised in the perceived "right" or "wrong" way, they become essentially a deeply personal commodity. The love they are bestowed with is subjective and individual to the owner.
With Dakota, she knew she was special from the get go. You see it with some dogs, they march around with their heads held high in a grand display, acutely aware of just how beautiful they are. At 8 weeks, Dakota was absolutely dainty. But she greeted us at the door, the last of her litter to be picked up, and raised a single paw to each of us as if to say "how do you do?" To say it set the tone would be an understatement. Truly, she's one proud lady.
I could go on and on here about the love I have for this pup and the many qualities she possesses. But for fear of sounding like an overly enthusiastic individual who lives and breaths by their furry companion, I'll refrain. Because really this piece is about what she's taught me.
First and foremost, that word patience again. Puppies require a whole lot of it and it's been a somewhat challenging concept to fully absorb. But, incidentally, it's been of great benefit to my writing, where the advantage of exercising patience is unanimous.
Furthermore, I've rediscovered the joy of simply being outside, after a season of wet days and cold nights and a creative practice that has consequently retreated inside. I feel fresher, more alert and I'm able to give more of myself to those I love.
Vizmaraners are known as the "velcro dog". They become very attached to their owners and I for one, attribute a lot of positive response to that. Simply put, her company feels immensely gratifying. The rather uncomplicated delight of simply caring for another takes that little bit of pressure off of yourself and helps you to display more well rounded and charitable qualities.
Then, on those more melancholic days when I feel particularly distant from others, she's there to help bridge that gap. Essentially, this little pup has been the saving grace of the now overbearing reality of lockdown. While we can now see the end in the not so distant future, she's helped us embrace life again in the present. She's a most welcome distraction from the periodic monotony and a constant reminder that, really, all is well in our lives.
Man's best friend they call them. Well, now I see why.
Curious reader, head to The Simple Beauty of Animals for some related musings. Alternatively, visit Dakota's Instagram page for some charming photography of the little one.