Unconditional Love. Review on Dogs Today

Unconditional love. A myth or reality? I don’t believe anyone can appreciate the true meaning of this beautiful idea until they become the proud owner of that adorable canine companion…the humble dog.

In 1998, after much discussion and countless heated debates (which cultivated into a household civil war), my family became the proud owner of my best friend - Bertie – a wonderful creature, whose bloodline boasts many a noble breed. Officially known as a Kelpie X, this 10 week old bundle of fur with two overly large ears, sparkling brown eyes and a sloppy pink tongue, commanded our attention and ruled our affections. He systematically domineered our hearts and then our house without so much as an objection from any member of our family (a little trick I think many politicians would love to master).

His arrival into our household can be hailed as nothing but a success. He has become the unassuming confidant of this family. His sparkling, intelligent eyes contain the secrets and personal grievances of each member of this pack, while his insistent paw on our knees demands that we drop whatever we our doing and fondle his ears or scratch his chest. Let it be known that he his fully aware of his dominance of our family as he unashamedly exploits each and everyone of us. All he need do is gaze soulfully into our eyes and his wish is our command.

I think Bertie is an ever present reminder of why not to forget the pleasures found in the very simple things in life. Just the murmur of words such as walkies and din din is enough to send him into a state of ecstasy. To find pleasure in chasing a ragged old tennis ball all afternoon (lets not make mention of the poor fool conned into throwing this ragged old tennis ball), and being thoroughly convinced that he has done a service to mankind is very endearing. His delight in finding you’ve reached home after a long day at work and his insistence to inform the whole house of this brilliant news (generally in the form of a furry excited tornado, with sparkling eyes, running from one side of the house to the other) is indeed heart warming. His wet nose waking me in the morning is irritating however I’m convinced that if I were to start the day without his lopsided grin, it just wouldn’t feel right.

So this unconditional love I made mention of earlier…A dog could not care less whether your rich or poor, smart or slow, fat or thin. It would not be offended if you forgot its birthday or didn’t know its favorite color (simple really: gray). If your in a bad mood and speak to it sharply, it will not hold it against you and expensive flowers are not required as form of reconciliation (they prefer liver treats, much cheaper.) But seriously, even dogs that have been harshly abused will often return to its master. A simple belief that you are their pack leader and anything you do or say is fine by them.

I often judge a person by the way they behave around animals. I think this is a way to see what a person is really like, as animals have no need for superficial veneers many homo sapiens choose to adopt. I think a happy, well nourished and healthy dog is the sign of a good home, while undernourished, badly groomed and painfully shy dog often symbolizes that something foul is afoot. I think anyone who is capable of treating a creature that depends on you for love and nourishment cruelly, could not ever be considered a superior person.

It is has been proven that dogs are indeed good for ones physical and emotional health. It has been established that the simple action of stroking and petting your dog can reduce blood pressure and take tension away from the mind. Also you get physical exercise from walking your dog and if you go to a park, it allows social interaction for your dog as well as yourself. In some cases in Australia, greyhounds that retire from the racetrack go to nursing homes with the elderly and keep each other company. A very sweet and efficient idea.

When my family decided to get a dog, I insisted that we got one from the pound. Just because someone decides they are incapable of looking after a dog does not mean that the dog is any less intelligent, companionable or good looking. I must admit that Bertie is rather odd looking, but I’ve gotten used to it and find it quite endearing…besides, I’ve a fondness for odd looking things:-). So if you’re in the market for a new dog, please don’t think that a dog needs to have official papers, or parents who look similar to be any good. A mongrel has bought much joy to our family, and I am sure that even a dog of questionable parentage could bring the same amount of joy into you household.

Bertie is a trusted friend and a faithful companion. All of you who own a dog (or are owned by a dog) will appreciate what I’m talking about, and for those of you don’t, you honestly don’t know what your missing out on.

I'm afraid I have not reviewed the magazine, just the subject. Please tell me about your own pet, i'd love to hear:-)