Two years ago I found my soul dog, Emmett. Since he galloped up to me with his spindly, awkward gait, and big boxer paws, my life brightened. He is often called the “good-est boy” by everyone he meets, shining his goofy, pure-hearted love everywhere he goes.
After two years he hasn’t necessarily learned many tricks. He knows how to sit, wait, lay down, and comes when we call nearly 50% of the time now. But he knows how to do so much more than the average dog. He runs up to check on everyone who sneezes, and tries to lick any open wounds you have–even though that’s technically bad. He’s a terrible doctor, but somehow knows how to give everyone love when they need it most.
After my boyfriend’s long day at work, Emmett is ready for his job to begin. From the moment Zack pulls in the driveway Emmett gears up his wiggle-butt-engine, flailing his entire body around like a fish with excitement. When Zack comes in the door Emmett waits as patiently as he can, pouncing up and down, pounding his front paws on the kitchen floor. He reaches up to pull little sparks of joy back to the surface of our minds.
Through Emmett’s eyes nothing else is more wonderful than the fact that we are all home together. He emanates such excitement over what we typically gloss over, and shows his love without reservation. He climbs up on our laps and uses all seventy pounds to squash out any lingering anxieties and frustrations from the day. His slobbery kisses wash away all that’s out of our control and leave our minds with a “clean” (but somewhat sticky) slate.
After two years of training, I still have trouble remembering all that Emmett’s taught me. He is wise in his simplicity. Through his carefree spirit he has been training me to love unconditionally, and to allow myself to accept others’ love and trust in it. Just like Emmett, sometimes I forget what I’ve been taught and falter when a moment overwhelms me. Fortunately Emmett and I have each other. We remind the other of the basic tenets we need.
He’s so much more than the pandemic puppy many dismiss him as.
What has your dog taught you? What is your dog training you to do and understand? Let me know in the comments!
Margaret Breaks 
Hello.
What a heartwarming story! Emmett sounds like such a special and loving dog. It’s incredible how our furry friends can teach us so much about unconditional love and being present in the moment. Thank you for sharing this beautiful bond you have with Emmett.
Thanks for sharing.
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