I just finished reading Marley & Me by John Grogan. It was such a wonderful tribute to a dog that I couldn't help but remember while reading it all the crazy antics of my family's dogs throughout my childhood.
I can't imagine dealing with the responsibility of owning a dog right now on top of the three kids and a baby on the way, but in other ways I'm impossibly sad about my kids not having those types of memories that only a dog owner can have. If things go as they are, they won't know the joy of a crisp autumn walk with a panting, excited dog by their side. They won't realize the satisfaction of training a dog and seeing the fruits of those labors. Somehow, the idea of curling up on a sofa with a dog at your feet and a good book in your hands seems like something few should miss.
Of course, of course, my kids are showered with good memories and I suspect looking back as adults they won't feel they've lacked much and, if they do, perhaps they can get their own dog someday. But after reading such a touching tribute to a badly behaved Labrador Retriever, it's hard not to think that a beloved family pet is worth the sacrifices it requires.
4 comments:
That's one way to look at it, I suppose. We had dogs on and off as the daughters were growing up and all I felt was really sorry for them: the kids these days are so scheduled, so busy -- as are, therefore, the parents -- that the dog is alone way more than he (or she) should ever be. And of course, that loneliness takes its toll on the pooch. In the end, I gave away our beloved water spaniel because I felt that we were gone too much and he deserved a better environment. In his new home, he had a person who was there round the clock, had no children to tend to and had another dog for him to play with. It was horribly traumatic for all of us, but I just hated leaving him alone in an empty house so many hours of the day. It's been many years and I still feel sad about him -- his loneliness and then, ultimately, his departure.
I've heard such good reviews about this book, but can't bring myself to read it.
Can't imagine our life without our Ginger. We prayer to have her for a few more years. She is 9 year old boxer, so it won't be that long. :(
Coming from someone who has a dog and who sometimes has to spend long days away from home-- Buckley is a well adjusted dog, but I feel bad that I just can't take him with everywhere (but whenever possible he comes along).
I loved the book and surprisingly I enjoyed the movie as well.
We loved having a family dog. Kylee was like one of the family. Buts he also was alot of work. You have alot on your plate right now. You don't have to have a dog to have lasting fun memories for your kids. :-)
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