Yesterday I finally found the time to take my dog to the groomers, and when I called Petco to set up an appointment, they immediately remembered my dog by name. On top of that, they said she was their favorite dog to groom and they’re excited to see her. Of course, I was ecstatic. Pets are like babies to their owners, and when I hear that someone adores my pet, it gives me a sense of pride.
But it got even better. When I went to drop her off at the groomers, she steps out of the car and there were some Petco employees standing outside of the entrance. As my dog prances over, the employees yell out her name and come greet her as if they see her every day. Of course, my dog was thrilled. She is much less of a protective guard dog than she is a loving old dog.
Her social life doesn’t end there, though. My whole neighborhood knows my dog by name, and as she is not the most obedient pet, she’s traversed their yards many times. Neighbors’ pets also love to socialize with my dog, and she can spend hours just running in circles with her fellow dog friends.
People that I consider to be in my social group also frequently ask about my dog in normal conversation. I am in no competition with my animal companion, and I certainly appreciate all of this endless love she seems to attract, but in the company of my dog, I definitely feel the need to step it up. As John Grogan beautifully displayed in Marley and Me, there’s much to to learn from our beloved pets in their natural social charm.
