The Unconditional Love of Dogs - A Bridge to Our Unseen Selves

On reading this, my memories of my beloved Lass (a female Border Collie, ex-working sheepdog) flooded my whole body. Our bond was strong and very meaningful. Lass taught me so… much about myself. She was highly intelligent and emotionally strong. As I witnessed her life starting to slip away, I knew it was time to visit our local vet clinic. I walked there, carrying her wrapped in her big favourite bath towel for comfort.

The vet examined her and said it was time to let her go. Her kidneys and bladder would soon fail, and she was already unsteady on her hind quarters. I insisted that I would cradle her as she was given the euthanasia injection. Lass watched attentively as the vet shaved the hair off just above her front paw. Then, as the vet was administering the injection, Lass looked straight up at me with her magic eyes (all dogs seem to have those eyes, don't they!). A wellspring of love bubbled up from a place deeper than words. Lass peacefully passed on in my arms. I carried her home and buried her in our garden, planting a New Zealand Protea bush cutting in the soil above her resting sanctuary.

Unlike humans tangled in the knots of judgment and self-doubt, dogs offer a love that flows pure and unfiltered. It's a love that bypasses the cacophony of mental chatter and taps directly into the very essence of our being, a connection that transcends the physical realm and whispers of something infinitely more profound. These loyal companions aren't merely pets; they're furry ambassadors from a realm of pure, unadulterated love. They serve as gentle reminders of the universal spark that binds us all, a luminous thread woven through the tapestry of existence. They bridge the chasm between the labyrinthine complexities of human thought and the simple, radiant essence of being. This connection, this profound understanding, transcends the veil of physical separation – even death cannot sever it.

A History of Loyalty: Dogs and Humans Throughout Time

The bond between humans and dogs stretches back millennia, a testament to the enduring power of this unique relationship. Archaeological evidence suggests that dogs were some of the earliest animals domesticated by humans, with estimates placing their companionship with us as far back as 15,000 years ago. These early partnerships likely emerged from a pragmatic need for assistance with hunting and guarding, but the connection quickly evolved into something far deeper.

Throughout history, dogs have played a multitude of roles in human societies – from herding livestock and assisting with hunting to serving as protectors, companions, and even working animals. Cultures around the world have revered dogs for their loyalty, intelligence, and unwavering devotion. Ancient Egyptians worshipped canine deities, while Romans employed dogs in warfare. In Japan, the Akita breed is considered a symbol of loyalty and fidelity, while the St. Bernard holds a place of honour in Swiss folklore for its heroic rescues in the treacherous Alpine mountains.

The scientific community has also begun to explore the complex dynamics of the human-canine bond. Studies have shown that interacting with dogs can lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, and even alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Owning a dog can encourage us to be more active, fostering a sense of well-being and promoting a healthier lifestyle.

The Language of Love: How Dogs Communicate with Us

Dogs may not speak our language, but they possess a sophisticated and nuanced communication system all their own. Their body language, vocalizations, and even tail wags tell a rich story of emotions and intentions. A furrowed brow and a low growl communicate displeasure, while a playful bow and a wagging tail express joy and a desire to interact. Learning to "speak dog" allows us to build a deeper connection with our canine companions. By understanding their subtle cues, we can better anticipate their needs and respond in a way that fosters trust and strengthens the bond. This two-way communication is essential for ensuring the well-being of both humans and dogs.

Beyond Cuteness: The Lessons We Learn from Dogs

In their unadulterated way of being, dogs become teachers, guides, and even mirrors reflecting the depths of our own humanity. They offer a potent curriculum in living a life filled with joy, love, and unwavering presence.

Unveiling the Essence of Love: Lessons from a Dog's Heart

In a world rife with suspicion and cynicism, Lass offered me a refreshingly uncomplicated form of love. Her affection was unconditional, a boundless acceptance that extended to my flaws, quirks, and moments of weakness. Lass would unfailing greet me with unbridled enthusiasm, no matter the outcome of my day. This unwavering devotion stands in stark contrast to the often conditional love we navigate in human relationships, where judgment and past hurts can cast long shadows. Dogs, in their simple wisdom, teach us the power of presence. They exist wholly in the now, savouring belly rubs, chasing squirrels, and in Lass’s case, she continued in her attempt to herd white seagulls along the Petone foreshore in replacement for a lifetime tenure of nobley herding NZ sheep. All with unbridled joy, and greeting each sunrise with wide-eyed wonder. This present-moment awareness is a gift they readily share, nudging us to shed the burden of anxieties about the future and regrets about the past. By simply being with our dogs, we are invited to step into their world, a world where the present moment reigns supreme.

Guardians of Being: A Bridge to the Divine

Perhaps one of the most profound gifts our canine companions offer is their ability to reconnect us to the divine spark within ourselves. Their unconditional love serves as a conduit, a bridge that allows us to tap into a wellspring of love far greater than ourselves. In their presence, we are reminded of our inherent connection to something larger, a sense of belonging that transcends the limitations of the ego. Think of them as gentle guardians of our true selves, reminding us of the universal spark that connects all living things. They nudge us to shed the masks we wear and embrace our authentic selves. Their unwavering loyalty and acceptance create a safe space for us to be vulnerable, to shed our inhibitions, and to simply be.

The Unseen Symphony: Embracing the Transformative Power of Death

The decision to let go of a beloved dog is undoubtedly one of the most heart-wrenching experiences we face as pet owners. The grief that washes over us is a testament to the depth of the bond we shared. Yet, within the sorrow lies a transformative truth: the essence, the consciousness that animated our furry friend, doesn't truly vanish. It simply rejoins the unseen symphony of life, a potent reminder that love and connection endure far beyond the constraints of the physical body.

One lingering memory: Lass carried a scent as unique and comforting as her presence. Years spent herding sheep had infused her fur with the lanolin from their wool, a subtle, earthy fragrance that whispered tales of open fields and loyal companionship. Even though she crossed the rainbow bridge in the mid-1980s, that comforting aroma would sometimes rise in my nostrils during moments of stress, a phantom echo of our life together. Guardian angels truly come in all shapes and sizes, and I'm eternally grateful that our bond transcends the limitations of the physical world.

If you reached this far, thank you ~ Nigel