Day 449

My dogs certainly keep me going! Along with Therapy Dog visits, training, grooming, feeding and LOVING, there are two series of walks each day. There have been times when the evening walk seems like it might just be beneficial to skip, but I look at those faces and on go the leashes.

I co-teach a class with my Therapy Dogs every three weeks. The members of the group are people with anxiety, depression, or both. We cover topics such as "comfort animals," advantages of pets and the gift of simply getting the owner outside into the great outdoors. Many of the individuals in the class would choose to stay indoors and maintain a reclusive lifestyle at this point in their lives. When you have a dog, there is a necessity to venture forth...whether you want to or not.

Tonight, as I fastened the collar on Sam for the first walk, I was already planning my "to-do" list for after the three evening walks. By the time I had Gus out and walking, I was suddenly noticing the beautiful sky and the breeze on my face. When Lilly and Ranger were out on their jaunt, I was in a different mood altogether! Mac always accompanies me on the final walk, so that made everything even better!

We met neighbors, waved at cars, visited with a friend coming out of a meeting at the middle school and had a moment with Dear Asher. The sky was gorgeous, the temperature lovely, the breeze delightful and the company couldn't have been beat! As always, I was so happy that my Goldens lured me outside when a big comfy chair was calling my name.

As for the Goldens, they seem to cherish their time with us. The interactions are special for the younger ones because they have ALL of the attention for once. Lilly and Ranger act relieved to be away from the "Energy Boys" and act more like puppies themselves. It is such a great time to observe and appreciate each and every one!

Dogs, and other pets, add so much to our lives. The benefits are endless, but Walking With Goldens might just be one of the best ones in my book!