Dog Owner and Lover for 50 Years
This month I celebrated my 60th birthday and am in total disbelief. . .Whew! Alot of years, a lot of experiences. And for me, a lot of special dogs.
My first dog was a gift given to me by my parents when I was a 10-year-old girl growing up in Hawaii. She was the most adorable little-white-furry-mop Maltese puppy who I named SiSi. This was the beginning of my becoming a lifelong dog owner and lover. Since then, I have spent the next 50 years of my life raising 14 dogs (along with 2 cats, 2 turtles and 1 lovebird). As an adult, I moved from Hawaii to Guam, relocating back to Hawaii before moving to Georgia, then finally ending up in California. In each of these locations, I have acquired dogs, often giving a home to strays or adopted from shelters. Whenever I chose to relocate, each and every one of these dogs came with me. They were my family
members, never to be left behind.
My decision to move from Hawaii to Georgia was not any easy one. I had 5 large dogs at that time and moving them such a long distance on an airplane to a different home in a different state with distinctly different weather seasons which they were unaccustomed to and without nearby beaches which they loved were just some of the many considerations. All of this was absolutely mind boggling. There were so many details to consider in making this big move as untraumatic as possible for my dogs. Talk about stress! That was over 20 years ago, but I still remember that hardship very distinctly.
Fortunately, all the well-thought-out planning minimized the trauma for my dogs. They quickly recovered from this relocation ordeal and were soon very happy in their new home with a 1-acre backyard in a quiet, country setting. They were excited and more than ready to experience all the new adventures in this new place!
Keys To My Dogs’ Happiness
My dogs have been such an important part of my life. Their happiness and well-being have always been a top priority. First, providing a safe and appropriate home environment is crucial. I have always chosen my residences to provide a dog-friendly location with a good-sized yard, securely enclosed and preferably in a cul de sac. Also, I insist on a single floor dwelling since stairs are challenging for senior dogs. Lastly, a doggy door is a must. My dogs have the freedom of being inside or outside as they please.
The location of my house must also provide good dog walking components such as safety, sidewalks, good green space, and limited traffic.
Crucial to my dogs’ happiness is incorporating their needs into my daily routine. Feeding and exercise are top priorities. Daily walks of at least an hour are part of our routine. Also, over the course of the last 10 years, I have transitioned into home cooking most of their meals and snacks.
I talk to my dogs all day long as if they are people. I believe this keeps them mentally engaged and stimulated. This, like physical fitness, is important for maintaining their health. Also, regular veterinary visits and protocols are vital.
Again, my dogs are my family, and are treated that way.
Sharing Life With My Unique Dogs
Like people, each dog has its own distinctive combination of appearance, personality and life experience. As you spend time with your dog, an unbreakable bond will develop from the interaction you have with each other.
It’s amazing to discover how unique each dog is. For me, encouraging and supporting them to reach their full potential is immensely gratifying. The loyal companionship, devotion and unconditional love I share with my dogs has been such a fantastic blessing!
Create a Happy and Healthy Life for Your Dog
I want to share my 50 years of personal experience and insight to our dogs’ physical, mental and emotional development to create a happy and healthy life for our dogs.
If your ever need a hand or have any questions, please feel free to leave them below and I will be more than happy to help.
All the best,
Tracy Gates
http://myhappyandhealthydog.com