I thought this was lovely and should be shared far and wide, it made me think

If a dog were your teacher you would learn:

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.
When it's in your best interest, practice obedience.
Let others know when they've invaded your territory.
Take naps and 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 down under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout; run right back and make friends.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
And most of all... If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

Kat

For Saffy 9/11/81-14/1/93 and for Dice 15/8/85-28/10/93

I think that dogs are teachers, the role they play on earth
They are teachers of emotion, that show our  real  worth
When their short life is over, and back to God they go
They've made our lives much richer, by teaching what they know
She'll teach you how to look anew, you'll see it through her eyes
The fields, the sea, the autumn day, the fluffy clouds that rise
The fields,the snow the colours,the breeze flowing through you hair
The sun upon the water shines,Your dog she'll take you there
Splashing,jumping,happy times,you don't need money here,
you never realised what was free,or what you held so dear
Unselfishness-she'll teach you now,and you'll be quick to learn
How can she love you like she does, and want nothing in return
Devotion-now and faithfulness, she'll teach you if she can
She'll lay her life down willingly,for you her master-man
Gentleness-the next to learn,she plays with children small
And they learn the meaning of the word,as she licks them when they fall
Love-she's taught you this one well,you love her now its true
The emotions that she brought with her,she passes on to you
Sorrow -yes your taught that too,when she has to go back home
And Loneliness-she's taught you that,when she's gone and your alone
Thankfulness-the major one, for all emotions seen
I'm so  sad now but that will pass, I'm so thankful that she's been.

By Judy Jones

Hi

I think that is fantastic and so true.  I waited so long to get my first dog and that just sums her up so well - she is like one big wagging tail.  Dogs seem to be eternal optimists.

Thanks