What I learned from dogs
Every morning, when Gabby gets out of bed and does it her stretches, it instantly puts me in a better mood. That’s when I know the morning starts and it’s time for our walk. I love watching her gait and tail wag when we walk. It’s always a good reminder to be present and enjoy our moments together.
After getting to know many dogs, it’s always interesting to try to figure out their personalities. Every animal is so diverse in quirks and affectations. It makes me wonder about their past and parents, what made them become who they are. Just as interesting as learning about people.
When Gary died, it made me realize his whole personality and history is gone, which had a deep impact on me. But as Sartre would say, he has become facticity, he no longer can develop his life project. I know he lives through me now, but it still saddened me. And that’s why I vowed not to eat dairy, it seems there’s so much more potential for animals to be themselves.
A lot of people get an appreciation and love for animals through their pets. But I’m still surprised that most pet owners don’t translate that for other animals. I still think that’s the best gateway to animal welfare, because it was for me.