In light of recent posts I thought this was very apt and I couldn't express more clearly how I (and all of you I'm sure) feel .....

"From time to time, people tell me, "lighten up, it's just a dog," or, "that's a lot of money for just a dog."

They don't understand the distance traveled, the time spent, or the costs involved for "just a dog." Some of my proudest moments have come about with "just a dog." Many hours have passed and my only company was "just a dog," but I did not once feel slighted.

Some of my saddest moments have been brought about by "just a dog," and in those days of darkness, the gentle touch of "just a dog" gave me comfort and reason to overcome the day.

If you, too, think it's "just a dog," then you will probably understand phases like "just a friend," "just a sunrise," or "just a promise."  "Just a dog" brings into my life the very essence of friendship, trust, and pure unbridled joy. "Just a dog" brings out the compassion and patience that make me a better person.

Because of "just a dog" I will rise early, take long walks and look longingly to the future. So for me and folks like me, it's not "just a dog" but an embodiment of all the hopes and dreams of the future, the fond memories of the past, and the pure joy of the moment. "Just a dog" brings out what's good in me and diverts my thoughts away from myself and the worries of the day.  I hope that someday they can understand that it's not "just a dog" but the thing that gives me humanity and keeps me from being "just a man."

So the next time you hear the phrase "just  a dog." just smile, because they "just don't understand."

Roca (C) 2006
Versatile Hunting Dog Magazine, February 2006"

So true Debs!

regards Teri

:) :) Thats quite perfect! :) :)

because of 'just a dog' I've got a champdogs addiction, an empty bank account, a set of clothes I wear regularly that previously would been in the bin, a very restricted social life (no more 3 day parties or straight out after work for a messy night out!) and a car that stinks - but I wouldn't change it for the world

Yep....that's so true.   Our best friends are very special part of our lives be they our own dogs... or dogs we meet each day in the street or park or shows. They make the world whole.