What I’ve learned from my fur babies.
Peggy & Molly enjoying a cuddle.
June 3rd was the first anniversary of our girl’s adoption, also known as GOTCHA day in the pet world, and what a year it has been.
Peggy and Molly’s original owner was elderly and passed away in the spring of 2021, which is how they ended up at the shelter. They were adopted out twice and returned twice, and it was no surprise that they were confused and quite traumatized when we got them.
Peggy responded well to routine but displayed separation anxiety and still does. She is my shadow. Molly stayed close for the first day and then retreated to a basement window for months.
Peggy is now 11, and Molly is 3. They are opposites which might explain their strong bond and why they had to be adopted together.
Peggy loves all humans, especially me, and is very affectionate. She is kind and incredibly patient, and if I say, “Peggy, let’s go for a walk,” she will quietly sit by the door and wait, no matter how long I’m distracted. She is the epitome of unconditional love. I could leave and return home 10 times in one day, and each time she greets me with a joyful hysteria warranted for much more extended absences.
She is also incredibly fearless and protective. One early morning she saw a couple of giant wolves running close to our house and decided to run after them. Thank goodness they had no interest in her and carried on their way. She doesn’t like all dogs, though she has about 5 doggie buddies. She’ll make it clear when she dislikes a dog, and we have to be careful.
Molly was overwhelmed when she arrived and sat next to me for the first day, and this was the only time that we’ve heard her purr. She retreated to the basement and was no longer interested in us, though she would interact with Peggy. We gave her lots of space, ensured there was plenty food, and then realized we were giving her too much space. So, after a few months of her self-inflicted exile, I started to approach her at her window stoop with offered some gentle touches between her hisses. It didn’t take long until she joined us upstairs and has stayed close to us ever since.
All interactions are on her terms. She doesn’t like to be picked up but wants to know where we are. She doesn’t greet us the way Peggy does but runs to the door when we arrive home, sees it’s us- the people who feed her and then walks away. She shows her affection with incessant kissing. She likes to kiss our hands and face and will kiss Peggy for up to 30 minutes.
They have provided us with immense joy, helped us survive our pandemic woes and have done wonders for my mental health.
Dogs offer a constant reminder of the importance of unconditional love and pure acceptance. Cats provide us with play, adventure, and curiosity. Beyond these benefits, pets also exemplify deep wisdom that we should all take notice of.
Peggy and Molly’s authentic way of living has reminded me of what’s essential in life:
Love unconditionally.
Our pets don’t expect us to be or do certain things for them to love us. We may let them done by delaying their walks, mealtimes, or by not paying much attention to them, but they will continue to love us fully. They don’t judge and evaluate before giving love.
Accept yourself and others.
Our pets don’t worry about their looks and don’t compare themselves to other animals. They accept us regardless of age, race, gender or status.
Live in the moment.
Animals have always practiced mindfulness, and long before its current popularity. It’s hard to know, but they rarely seem to worry about the future. They may experience fear, but it’s based on circumstances at the moment.
Greet your loved ones with warmth and affection.
You don’t need to wail like Peggy, but isn’t it nice when people are happy to see you. Check out this adorable video of Peggy & Molly.
Wake up happy and stay positive.
I don’t want to talk to anyone until I’ve had my morning coffee. Peggy and Molly are so excited to see us in the morning. Dogs have a way of finding the good in most situations. The weather may be sweltering or stormy and a dog will still be excited to take a walk with their favourite person. A cat is content to watch birds all day and will find joy in simple things.
Defend what you love.
Our fur babies will stand up against those who try to harm us. They bark, howl, hiss, bite, scratch, and do everything in their power to protect us.
Listen more.
Dogs are excellent listeners. They don’t judge, offer unsolicited advice, or interrupt. They listen.
Rest and take breaks.
Cats and dogs unapologetically sleep from 12 to 16 hours a day. This might be too much for most of us and 8 hours will suffice. In addition, we should also ensure a few brief moments of stillness and silence throughout the day.
Be curious.
Animals have a natural curiosity about everything around them. What’s that smell? What’s that noise? Who is that person? Staying curious will lead to learning new things and gaining new experiences.
Give yourself and others space, but not too much.
When loved ones are having a rough time, they may need some space, but also make sure you check in on them occasionally.
Sometimes, be a Diva.
Not the type of Diva that’s rude, demanding and has a sense of entitlement. But, the kind of Diva that puts themselves first, has good boundaries and is comfortable saying no.
Peggy and Molly have made us healthier and happier. Yes, we rescued them, but they also rescued us.
Please share your fur baby stories.
Peace and blessings.
Anita
Perfect porch day.