The Joys of Aging Together: Understanding Our Pets
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Chapter 1: The Aging Connection
Many people find humor in the aging process, especially when it comes to our beloved pets. I often joke with my dog about how well we are both aging. At 11, she's quite spry, while I’ve reached the age of 84. We've shared countless moments since she was just a puppy of 7 weeks.
Although my dog was born in Portland, Oregon, she has developed a strong aversion to rainy days. This dislike was cultivated during our time there, and it seems to have stuck with us as we’ve encountered many rainy days lately.
Like many pet owners, I frequently chat with my dog. Some may consider it odd, but talking to animals has been a part of my life since I was a child, and I plan to continue this habit. Recently, I pondered whether she knows how old she is and remarked on how gracefully she is aging. Even her veterinarian has noted her good health. We’ve faced some minor health challenges, like her flea allergies and an abscess from something she ingested, but modern medicine has worked wonders for her, although I have my own struggles that I’ll save for another discussion.
You might wonder why I project human characteristics onto my dog by asking her questions that I know she can’t answer. After all, anthropomorphism is a uniquely human trait. When someone claims they don’t do this, I often ask if they have named their car, and suddenly they realize the truth. We tend to give personalities to inanimate objects, so why not our pets?
Section 1.1: The Listening Dog
Despite the anthropomorphism, my dog genuinely appears to listen. She tilts her head and perks her ears, indicating that she’s processing what I’m saying. Often, she responds to commands, like when I ask if she wants a treat—she promptly heads to the pantry—or when I tell her to fetch her ball, she scampers to retrieve it.
Subsection 1.1.1: Understanding Age
Returning to the topic of aging, I believe she has a sense of her age, as well as an awareness that I have aged alongside her. I wasn’t a young person when she joined my life; I was already in my 70s. Nevertheless, we have engaged in numerous activities together—walking, conversing, running, and playing. Our bond remains strong, although we both tire more easily with time. I believe she understands this shared experience of aging.
Chapter 2: Embracing Healthy Aging
The first video, How Old Is My Dog? 5 Ways to Tell Your Dog's Age, provides valuable insights into understanding your dog's age and health.
The second video, Does My Dog Know What I'm Thinking?, explores the fascinating question of whether dogs can comprehend human thoughts and feelings.
Here's to healthy aging—for both you and your furry friends! And let’s embrace the slower pace that comes with the years.