Day 71
7/23/22
Today, I did my walking with the pups rather early. I could sense an impending storm as dark clouds gathered in the west. That inner voice told me to keep moving, be alert and be ready to seek shelter if need be. My golden retrievers were a step ahead of me. Without a weather report, they knew something was coming. Their inner voice is unwavering...possibly a genetic link to their ancestors the wolf (just like their habit of lying back-to-back, which research suggests, looking for a predator from all directions). When that first roll of thunder could be heard, we all made a split decision to "split!"
Do you ever make a decision in "the blink of an eye?" I believe we all do it frequently and call it a "gut reaction," but my goldens do it consistently when meeting other people. I have learned to trust and honor their reaction, even when it differs from mine.
There is a book entitled "Blink", by Malcom Gladwell, which delves into this phenomenon in depth. It is a fascinating read, but my pups haven't read it and seem to be a walking ad for the concept. Let me offer one example.
Years ago, Arthur and I went to a state-run mental health facility where we were escorted to a locked ward. We were with other Therapy Dogs, so I was not nervous or concerned. Eventually, we were all led into a gymnasium where we were asked to spread out before the residents arrived. I laid a blanket out and invited Arthur to sit down and relax. He did just that, but it didn't last long.
A group of residents filed in through a doorway and were evidently told to find a Therapy Dog team and begin a visit. A young man spotted Arthur and bee-lined for our beautiful boy. I invited him to sit down on the blanket, but he chose to squat directly in front of the golden. I attempted to start a discussion, but he didn't reply. He only stared at Arthur and my dog started to show signs of unease. The young man, who had some pretty nasty sayings tattooed across his knuckles, refused to leave when the staff politely made that request. I looked at Arthur, who by this time was panting and looking at me for help, and said, "Oh goodness, I think he needs a potty break." With that, I got up, looked for an emergency exit (The staff must have disarmed it) and left the room and property. Arthur almost tripped both of us with his need to escape. One of the number one rules for a Therapy Dog team is TRUST THE REACTION OF YOUR DOG.
Now, I watch for any unease at various venues where we visit, but the dogs almost always seem comfortable. If they act uncomfortable, I trust their instinct and remove them from the situation.
I have thought long and hard about my "blink" decisions. They are often visceral and demand instant action and attention. I believe we should listen to that inner voice. It is there to protect us...just like my goldens.
