THERAPY DOG

So, I know it is almost kind of the "new thing" to register your dog as a Therapy Dog and literally take him or her everywhere you go. I noticed this poppin' trend about a year ago and was torn. Part of me thought it was brilliant, because those that know me best, know I am an animal advocate and dogs are considered "Pack Animals", which means they do NOT like to be left alone. It is all too common for people to get a dog and then be gone 8 hours at their job, stop at the gym on the way home, let the dog go out to pee around dinner, then head back out into the world for cocktails with friends. I never understood humans that wanted pets, but didn't want to be home with them. I am also anti-crate, but that's another blog. So the point is, I thought this concept was terrific because it allows a dog to be a member of the family, 24/7. The other half felt kinda-sorta-a little bit uncomfortable about idea of "cheating the system," being that I am more of a rule follower than people actually realize. Oh sure, I fly my free-spirit flag high and proud, but I do seldom want to put my toe in the water of anything considered illegal. Free birds don't like cages, ya heard? LOL

Okay, ANYway, last week a tiny pup landed into my lap and fate was present. I feel strongly about the word "fate" right now. My natural peppy vibe and positive outlook sometimes takes the lead and can allow me to hide anything "dark" that might surface. George Washington said, "I cannot tell a lie!" And either can I. The last few months have been creeping into my space and catching up with me. I spent the last couple weeks unable to do like Mrs. T. Swift and "shake it off." Standing in the shower with tears flying everywhere, I wondered how I would be strong enough to handle the inevitable cycle of life with my Mother and a husband's first deployment, all possibly in the same time frame. I guess God heard me...as he always does. Because Tao showed up. I haven't shed a tear since.

I am on fur-Mommy cloud 9 as we bond stronger and stronger with each day. I am enjoying the training process thoroughly and am totally WOWed by his progress! I have never in my life met a puppy that was so well behaved and eager to learn the Do's and Don't's of his new world. And so I have decided to officially register Tao as a service dog called "Emotional Support Dog." He will be certified in all 50 states as Therapeutic to his primary owner, me. I am in love with our baby and eager to be able to bring him everywhere with us. The best part of it all is, his purpose is truly authentic.