By Dr. Jan Crowe ·
We first shared this list with you back in 2015, and it's been floating around our office ever since. Nobody knows who wrote it. I've tried to find out, and the internet is no help at all.
What I like about it is that it isn't really sentimental. It's just accurate. I watch dogs do nearly every one of these things in our lobby every week. Number 7 is my favorite. I've scolded more than one dog for stealing something off a counter and been forgiven before I finished the sentence.
Here's the list, with a few notes from the exam room.
1. When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Even the dogs who are nervous about the vet are thrilled to see their person walk back in after a checkup. It's the best part of my day to watch.
2. Let the feel of fresh air and wind in your face be pure joy.
Every dog with a head out a car window is making the same face. I've never seen one look bored.
3. Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
Yes, this one is also why the doorbell gets a full performance. We love them anyway.
4. Take naps, and stretch before rising.
Watch an older dog get up from a nap. The stretch matters, and it's a good reminder for the rest of us at any age.
5. On a hot day, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
Lowcountry summers are no joke for dogs. Shade and fresh water aren't optional here. If your dog is panting hard and won't settle, call us.
6. When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Some dogs can't contain it to just the tail. You'll know the ones.
7. No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout. Run right back out and make friends.
Dogs don't hold grudges. We humans could use some of that.
8. Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Walks are good for your dog's joints, weight and mind, and they're good for you too. It's one of the easiest things you can do for your pet's health.
9. Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you've had enough.
I'd amend this one a little. Plenty of the dogs I see have not mastered the "stop when you've had enough" part. That's a conversation for their next checkup.
10. Be loyal.
Nothing to add. They already are.
11. Never pretend to be something you're not.
A dog is exactly who they are, all the time. That honesty is also what makes it so easy for us to read how they're feeling.
12. If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
Persistence, in the form of a very dirty nose. Sorry about the flower bed.
author unknown.