Thread: Why Dogs don't live as long as people

Being a veterinarian, I had been called 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.

I examined Belker and found he was dying of cancer. I told the family there were no miracles left for Belker, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.

As we made arrangements, Ron and Lisa told me they thought it would be good for the four-year-old Shane to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shane might learn something from the experience.

The next day, I felt the familiar catch in my throat as Belker's family surrounded him. Shane seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that I 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.

We 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 me. I'd 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 four-year-old continued, "Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long."


Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply, Speak kindly. Leave the rest to God.

CHildren have the right answers sometimes, maybe it's because they don't complicate life!

This reminds me of something:

If A Dog Were Your Teacher...Author Unknown

If a dog were your teacher, you'd learn stuff like:

When loved ones come home always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joy ride.

Allow the experience of wind in your face and fresh air to be pure ecstasy.

When it's in your best interest practice obedience.

Let others know when they have invaded your territory.

Take naps and stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let other people touch you.

Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.

On warm days stop to lie on your back in the grass.

On hot days drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing; run right back and make friends.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you've had enough.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something that you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

And the one I think is most important:
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.

Both excellent posts, thanks for sharing.