What I’ve Learned After 10 Years Of Being A Dog Owner

They truly are our best friends.

When I was 21 and all my friends were partying, I decided to adopt a dog.

Many people in my life were surprised. Did I really want to be taking on the responsibility of possibly the neediest pet out there at such a young age?

Perhaps it was a rash decision. My partner at the time suggested we get a pet. Without considering any other animal, I said I wanted a dog. My family had dogs in my childhood, and my workplace had an office dog. The distant memories and small doses of canine companionship weren’t enough for me. No other animal could compete with their infectious joy, playfulness, and loyalty.

And so, after a little searching and a home visit, my little Lady entered my life. She was shy and anxious, initially too afraid to cross the threshold of the room I was in without me beckoning her in. It didn’t take long for her to warm up to me and become my closest friend in the world.

She would go on to be there for me when no one else was. My crying shoulder during rough moments in tumultuous relationships. My adventure buddy when everyone else was busy. My solace after a stressful day at work. My only slice of home in a foreign country. No matter what was going on in my life, Lady has always been happy just to share my company with nothing in return (except maybe a little doggy treat).

Yes, there were times when I’ve had to make sacrifices for her. Fewer homes were available for me to rent. I’ve cancelled travel opportunities because I wasn’t able to find a sitter for her. I’ve even had sleepless nights trying to calm her down during storms, and I can’t count the number of times she’s woken me up in the wee hours of the morning to go for a pee. And every single one of those moments were worth it. In fact, I gladly returned home early from many a party in my 20s because I missed her company.

Now, 10 years on, I’m so incredibly grateful that she’s still here and thriving. I didn’t know what today would look like when I adopted her; the shelter said she was around 5 then. Knowing the average canine life span, I wasn’t even sure if we’d still be together today. But she’s here, and she’s perfectly healthy, if not a tiny bit slower than when we first met. She’s down a few teeth and up some white hairs, but she’s as beautiful, sweet, and funny as ever.

Lady has taught me that unconditional love exists. When humans have disappointed and hurt me, she has never ceased to give me joy and affection. She’s taught me to savour the little things in life: rays of sunshine, the scent of blooming flowers, the feel of fresh grass under my feet, the coziness of a plush blanket wrapped around me …

As silly as they often are, dogs really are angels on earth. I’m grateful for every cuddle, every sprint, every second I’ve been able to share with Lady, and I hope to enjoy many more with her.