A Dog’s Purpose? From a 6-year-old, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. People are born so that they can learn how to live a good life — like loving everybody all the time and being nice, 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.

Remember, 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

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

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk

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


There comes a time in life, when you walk away from all the drama and people who create it. You surround yourself with people who make you laugh, forget the bad, and focus on the good. So, love the people who treat you right. Think good thoughts for the ones who don’t. Life is too short to be anything but happy. Falling down is part of life, getting back up is living.

Listen to the Dog in the New Year!