Day 125

9/16/22

This is the pack! It's almost a "Where's Waldo" picture, but I bet you can find four! ( Ranger on his back, Lilly on the other couch, Gus on my feet and Little Sam in his playpen) Wherever I am, there they are! What a gift!

Not only are the Goldens keyed into my actions and reactions, but they are extremely attuned to each other. They are always happiest when they can be together AND with their humans.

These dogs have evolved in some ways from their wolf ancestors. When given the opportunity, two of them will lie back-to-back on the floor. This is a characteristic found in the wolf pack. When in this position, they can easily see predators from all directions. Mine are more concerned with treats, walks and car rides, but they still choose to position themselves in this way.

I noticed that Gus and Sam will lick the senior goldens' snout/mouth. Research shows that pups, from any lineage, will do this to make the adult "share" their latest dinner with them. I am thankful that is not necessary at our home!

The prey instinct is also very much evident. Squirrels, bunnies and anything moving on the ground, is fair game...lucky for me they are never successful in their efforts!

People seem to have packs as well. I know I have a few packs of my own.

First, is my family...immediate and extended. This group is not always related by blood, since my closest friends are considered family as well. We certainly have each other's backs when it's needed! Acceptance, love and devotion are all key in this pack!

Next, I belong to a wonderful "pack" of friends! Although there are varied and several groups, I cherish these relationships and appreciate their love and support! Seriously, I feel so fortunate to have these amazing friends in my life!

Finally, but in no way last, is my "Pup Pack". I am inclined to admit that I get more from this group than I offer. Of course, I give "The Big Four" shelter, food and health care. I also give them so much love, but it pales in comparison to what I get back from these dogs. I try to remember the saying, "Please let me be the person my dogs think I am," but that is next to impossible. I keep striving towards that goal!

We are the sun and moon to our four-legged creatures and I hope to never lose sight of that. Beyond that realization, I try to love them beyond their physical needs. I love them unconditionally...even when bad choices are made (Gus! That baby can make some crazy decisions! Usually, they are to simply get my attention and it works every time!)

So, today, as I embrace my "packs," I am grateful beyond words. We all need to belong at home, work, neighborhood, school, church, and any other place we walk.

What would we be without our packs...probably a "lone wolf" and that rarely brings happiness to anyone!