Purposeful Pets

I have a bit of a menagerie in my home and my day is set by the rhythms of my pets' lives. A white canary named Snow White serenades me awake in the morning with trills and chirps. My two dogs,

Ozzie (a Malteze, Shih Tzu Cross) and Cassie (a Minature Schnauzer)

wait impatiently in their crates for me to take them outside to start the day. Three hardy goldfish swim in place and watch me intensely waiting for their morning food.

A homily repeated by my mother from her farm days echoes in my head as I start the day,  "You take care of the animals FIRST." Even on difficult days I drag my body from bed and start on the daily routine of pet care. My breakfast and shower or even a return to bed waits until after their needs are met.

My responsibility to these domesticated animals gives a sense of structure to my life. In return for my stewardship I receive back unconditional love, a window into the world seen through the senses of another creature and improved health. I share nature music and jazz with my canary and my enjoyment is increased by her interest. My dogs urge me outside  for a walk or a run beside the scooter (depending on the day and my energy level) and I benefit from the fresh air and exercise. Even the goldfishes' lazy circles in the water lower my blood pressure and bring me an almost zen like relaxation.

People have asked me if life wouldn't be easier without the demands of pet ownership. Especially when I need to travel and have to line up care. Or when I am ill and pet maintenance is a challenge.

My life would be immeasurably diminished without my pets' presence. They bring me joy on my darkest days. I have learned from the dogs to sag into a deep nap and not worry about life's stresses. I have learned to glory in the sunrise of a new day and the happiness of a quick splash in a bath from my canary. I have learned to enjoy the patterns of the day from my fish. I feel needed and loved from sunup to sundown. My rather solitary home is brimming with life.

Most of us have read or heard of the benefits of pet ownership or even just exposure to pets. These benefits range from emotional and physical to spiritual. See the article at this link to find out the full range of benefits that come from having a pet.  http://www.holisticonline.com/stress/stress_pet-therapy-benefits-of-pets.htm