The relationship between dog and owner - Page 1

This article is not about a German Shepherd, but the man in the article is my cousin....

sports.espn.go.com/outdoors/bassmaster/news/story

Reading this makes me feel like sharing my story.  I know how Mark feels.  Six months ago, I lost my brother to suicide and have never been in a darker time in my life.  Had it not been for my Shepherds, I'm not sure I'd even be getting out of bed anymore.  I recently volunteered to do photos at a suicide prevention walk, and decided to take my certified therapy dog, Ekco, with me.  It was for selfish reasons as I thought I would probably need him more than anyone else, but I was curious to see what therapy dogs could do with suicide survivors.  A friend of mine also came along with me to drive me, support me and kept me in good shape all day, and I'll never be able to thank her enough for that.  That left Ekco to do what he did best.  Play the sad eyes so he could get as much attention as he could, and boy did it ever work.  Many people stopped to kneel down and say a few words to him as they pet him and he lapped up all the attention as I stood in front of him taking pictures of the teams in front of the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention banner.  He was wearing a collar I attached pictures of my brother, one of my brother's good friends, and two others of friend's brothers that had also taken their own lives.  Everyone took the time to look at all the pictures.  Ekco took it all in stride and at the end of the day, when we got home, I crawled into bed and he followed and curled up right next to me.  I guess he knew I would be okay with sharing him for the day, but at the end of the day, he was there for me as he has been since this tragedy has started for me, as he has been for most of his time with me.  

Cherish the relationship you have with your dogs, no matter what they are... Show dogs, sport dogs, pets, etc... There may come a day when they will be there for you when you feel like no one else is.  It's amazing to me how much these animals know and how much they become a part of us. 

Everyone make sure to give their pets an extra hug tonight.  I may not know them, but I'm positive they all deserve it.  

A.P.



My brother Stephen with my dogs Ekco and Sierra

A.P.
Thanks for sharing this severe trail in your life and your insights on priorities.  It is the unconditional love that always wins out.  One of the best dogs I have owned was a pound puppy that turned out to be the one thing I needed, a friend.  No titles, no pedigree, terrible conformation, but she did all that was asked of her and so much more.  I love a good working dog, but in the end most all will be there for you. May your efforts be blessed and brighter days for tomorrow.

Great post. In my dogs short life he has been here for me though the worst of times. I will make sure he gets that extra hug and a thank you tonight! What a great gift he has been!

Wow I was just thinking about one of my past dogs the other day and cried a few minutes missing him terribly. I love the dogs I have now, but something about the way that one looked at me, followed my every move and worshiped my existance. He too was a pound puppy, sometimes I think they know what we saved them from and are forever greatful. I know I can always count on my 4 legged friends to be there whenever I need them, be it midnight or a holiday, never too busy to lend a supportive ear or a helping paw. Sometimes having them to feed or pick up after is the only thing prying us out of bed in a bad time.

I'm so sorry to hear about your tragedy and terrible loss.  I'm so glad you have a friend to help you through these darkest times.  Others' eyes are mirrors which reflect who we are, and somehow, the relection we see in our best friends' eyes gives a clearer picture of not only who we are, but, more importantly, who we can be.  This makes us take an assessment of where our lives are leading us and gives us the opportunity to choose paths which will make us the best we can possibly be.  I'm glad you have those mirrors to give you a glimpse of the future and all the promise of good things to come.

We need more post like this, it reminds us of what this board is for, what are dogs can do for us! It is more then just shows or working!  It is about the relationship you have with your dog!

Greatestgsd,  You are so correct, we do need more post like this one. Not only is it about the relationship with our dogs... I think that we all should take the time and always remember the loyalty, love and devotion our dogs have towards us. They exemplify unconditional love. Think about it you see someone mistreat  their dog, yet when they return home at the end of the day notice how that mistreated dog forgives and runs up, tail wagging, excitement overflowing, oh so happy to see you, just to be close, and get that attention( positive or negitive) from you.
I have learned so much about relationships, accepting faults in myself and others, forgivenes and so much more from my dogs.

They deserve what they are so eager and willing to give.

Jim 

Ami
We are very sorry for your terrible loss........we can only imagine your sorrow.

The dogs are the only ones that can share our deepest feelings, thoughts and fears.
They judge not.
This past year being faced with the "practicality" of forms of cancer........I too, could only share my inner-most fears with Drago.  Even having family & friends around, one cannot "express" their true fears....."creating" a front of strength around them, assuring "them" that everything will be fine.
We find ourselves "vulnerable" in our soul, and can only find the peace that comes from those "loving, strengthening eyes" that pier through us.
God Bless the animals....
Robin

So so touching.  So very sorry for your loss.  You are blessed to have such a loving and caring companion.  May the Good One keep you close and ease your pain.  What a brave and loving gesture to go to the rally and share Ekco's love and comfort with others.  I amazed at the animal worlds ability to take and shoulder our grief in the darkest times.  I know I could not have coped with many many things without my Abbie.  Peace to you and your family.