A veterinarian was asked to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Belker.
The dog’s owners, Ron, his wife Lisa and their little boy Shane, were all very attached to Belker, and they were hoping for a miracle.
The veterinarian examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer.
He told the family there was nothing anyone could do for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As arrangements were made, Ron and Lisa told the vet they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shane to observe the procedure.
They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.
The next day, the vet felt the familiar catch in his throat as Belkers family surrounded him.
Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that the vet wondered if he understood what was going on.
Within a few minutes, Belker slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Belker’s transition without any difficulty or confusion.
Everyone sat together for a while after Belker’s Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives.
Shane, who had been listening quietly, piped up, ”I know why.” Startled, we all turned to him.
What came out of his mouth next stunned everyone.
They had never heard a more comforting explanation.
He said, “People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life — like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?”
The six-year-old continued, Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don’t have to stay as long.”
If a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you’re not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
