I am so glad my dog does not discuss politics, world affairs or the state of the economy. We only discuss important things like which shrub to pee under, why he can’t have all the treats he wants, what time to get up in the morning and how much bed space/blankets he needs.

I am old, elderly even. Many friends have passed and life is very quiet now. But I can always count on my dog for a good conversation, even when we don’t agree. And no, Pepper, you cannot have more deli ham.

With so much angst in our world these days, a good cuddle with our pets always helps.

Like most pet people, we will do for our dogs what we will not bother to do for ourselves. Walk early, walk late, walk tired. Walk in the rain, in the snow, in the heat. Carry the dog so his feet don’t freeze or burn. Worth it all!