Auld Lang Syne

How many dogs have you known in your life?

I’ve known thousands.

I drop into a dog’s home at a moment of crisis, or join them at the very beginning of their journey to help chart a sustainable and fulfilling path for their lives. And then, I leave. 

When I do my job well, I know people and dogs well, but only briefly.

Fortunately though, some dogs stick around for continuing fun and games training, or grace us with a longterm presence in day school. When that happens, I come to know them more deeply. In bygone days, I ran a playgroup in which the dogs spent four hours of every day in my care. Those dogs were my daily companions. My buddies. My dearest friends. 

This New Year’s Eve, two of these dear friends found their way to my home while their parents traveled for the holiday. These two ladies were a favored pair of trouble-makers during puppyhood. Sienna, a golden retriever, was so full of Enthusiasm (capital E). I’ll never forget the way she would leap three feet off of the ground over and over again whenever we were stopped at intersection. Misha, a Shiba Inu, developed a fine fear of strange noises at the dog run and would actively attempt to escape. Once, she succeeded (when some bewildering genius opened both gates of the vestibule simultaneously). Both Sienna’s need to go vertical, and Misha’s need to escape are issues we solved long ago. Sienna walks gracefully on leash. Misha stays by your side in any off-leash situation. The difficulties are barely remembered. Recalled with fondness. Auld Lang Syne.
(If you’re wondering what the heck those old New Year’s lyrics even mean, check this out.)

Because I come to people when they have problems, and my mission is to solve them, I see the problems in sharp relief. And yet I also have the privilege of seeing so clearly that the problems we struggle with today, the behaviors that we desire to change in our dogs and loved ones, are only temporary. More than that, working through our struggles brings us closer. The love and bond we have endures. The passing of the sands of time, smooths down our troubles until they are faint grey memories, and our love and joy shines brightly through. 

So remember auld lang syne when you sing those New Year’s songs this year. Enjoy those blessed memories of puppyhood mischief. And if your dog is making their mischief still today, try not to worry. Work on your bond and communication and have faith that in the end, you’ll be singing a song of remembrance and thanking the stars for your friendship.

Happy New Year, and all of my love,

Amanda G