If you’ve read this blog for the past 10+ years, you know I’m not a big believer in New Year’s Resolutions.
I do, however, support the idea of reviewing lessons we’ve learned and using them to improve our year-round habits.
So for the second time since launching this blog, I’m going to turn it over to my dog Malka.
When she first offered her advice, she was but a wee pup. Now, she is a grand dame with more than a decade of life experience to draw from.
Here’s what she had to say:
- Greet everyone with sincere and warm affection. It may even lead tummy rubs!
- Don’t be grumpy when you don’t get your own way. Barking at people is no way to make friends.
- Playing is an essential part of living. Do it often.
- Show leadership by demonstrating the behaviour you expect from others. For example, if you need to go out, stand at the door and wait patiently.
- Treat everyone equally. Oh, wait that was supposed to read “equal everyone’s treats.” Or was it “Equal everyone treatfully?” Same idea, we should all get the same amount of treats, and that amount is lots.
- Be patient with humans. They aren’t very bright, but most of them mean well.
- If someone rudely ignores you, shower them with love and affection. It’ll drive them crazy.
- Sleep deprivation has been shown to contribute to poor health and reduced mental acuity. Sleep as many hours a day as you possibly can.
- Share with others. Your fur and saliva is everyone’s fur and saliva.
- The holidays aren’t about gifts, they’re taking time to be near (preferably ON) your loved ones.
Bonus lesson: Don’t pee on the carpet – it’s not endearing.
So there you have it, folks. Words of wisdom from Malka.
Instead of making a short-lived New Year’s Resolution for 2022, why not try a dog’s life?
Till we read again.
