Pet teachers A pet in the home provides an opportunity for a child to learn compassion, purpose, and focus while adding context to the circle of life. As an only child, my dog, Spot (true name), offered me unconditional love, support, and courage, fulfilling the role of sibling and best friend. I shared my fears and hopes with her. When I was sad she would lick me and comfort me, allowing me to feel important and loved. She taught me how to be responsible with the daily chores that go along with looking after a pet. She protected me and would warn me of others who were not good for me.
When I was sad she would lick me and comfort me, allowing me to feel important and loved. Sharing the love Pets still grace my home with love as well as the lives of others. My current dogs are certified for pet therapy, and regularly touch many young lives at McMaster Children’s Hospital, Hamilton. Ontario. Our 12 pound shih-tzu, Molly, helped 9-year-old Lilly, who was suffering with cancer. Lilly was distraught about taking horrible tasting, but necessary, medicine prior to her upcoming surgery. The hospital staff and Lilly’s family had tried everything to get Lilly to take the medicine. Success came with the promise that for every glass of medicine Lilly drank, Molly would do a trick. As each glass was emptied, Molly did a stunt and Lilly excitedly awarded her four-legged performer with a treat. Molly would shake a paw, sit pretty, wag her tail, turn circles, and speak on command. As Lilly drank the final glassful, Molly amazed us by dancing around like an entertainer. That day, a small dog helped a stressed little girl prepare for a much needed surgery. Kids of all ages Pets stimulate their caregivers and, as with children, seniors benefit from caring for another life. Pets provide an exercise buddy and another being to help them heal from a physically or psychologically troubled past. I experienced a miracle as I watched our four-month-old puppy, Willy, interact with my husband’s grandmother suffering with Alzheimer’s disease who hadn’t spoken in 8 months. At the hospital, Willy sat on the tray of Grandma’s wheel chair. This furry ‘love ball’ gently placed his head on her hand and began to lovingly lick her. Within seconds, Grandma’s eyes came back to life and slowly she spoke the word, ‘puppy’. Willy had given this special lady the will and the strength to speak.		My three dogs bring me daily joy and much laughter. They have helped me heal my body despite a chronic disease, and they are truly some of my life’s greatest blessings. We all have our own reasons for getting a pet. What would yours be?  H&L Sue London, Radio Host, People & Pet Therapist, Reiki Master, Spiritual Life Coach. To learn more about Sue, her products and services, and radio show please visit asksuelondon.com
ARE YOU PET READY? There are plenty of reasons people think they want a pet. Before making your final decision, here are some important items to consider, because pets are for a lifetime. » How much time do you spend at home? Kittens and puppies cannot be left alone for more than six hours daily.  » Fit the pet’s temperament to your lifestyle: do you want a cuddly ‘lap-pet’ or prefer one that will accompany you outdoors?  » Are there children in your home? How many; what ages? Can they be pet responsible?  » Will this pet be a companion to another pet in the home?   » Are pets welcome where you live; how often might you move in the next 15 years?  » Is there enough space appropriate to their size and activity level?  » How will your pet be cared for while you’re away from home? » Is a family member allergy prone? Animals who shed can trigger allergic symptoms. » Does your lifestyle afford the time, energy and cost commitments of ownership?