From "CLUNY" By William Croswell Doane (1832 - 1913)

First Bishop of Albany New York - written about his

faithful St. Bernard -  his constant companion.

 Christmas is a time of kindness, generosity, goodwill and renewed faith in the human spirit.  It is also a time when, adults and children alike contemplate the excitement that a new puppy would bring to the family.  They romanticize the squeals of delight, wagging little tails and those perfect KODAK moments.   In fact, most experts agree that Christmas is perhaps the worst time to be drawn into this canine fantasy regardless of how much we feel compelled.   After the excitement wears off, children often become bored with the responsibilities of taking care of a needy puppy and parents upon returning to their normal work routines after the Holidays are often just too busy. Lacking the appropriate time for exercise and training, the squirming little 'buffoon' that was such a source of joy on Christmas Day becomes an unwelcome burden.  Many puppies that are adopted during the holiday season end up being dumped at local shelters months later now poorly behaved adolescent dogs that are surrendered because the owners simply 'changed their minds'.  It's an all-too-familiar scenario.  In fact, many puppy mills gear up their production in time for the holiday season in the hopes of capturing the attentions of parents who fall victim to the pleadings of their children for a warm, cuddly ball of fur.  Fast forward to two or three months later when amidst chewed up slippers, stained carpets and torn furniture, the pup is a source of frustration and quarrels over whose turn it is to take it for a walk.  We need to instill in our children an understanding that puppies are not simply 'toys' but are living, breathing creatures that require our care and there is a great responsibility that comes with including them in our families. 

We can't deny, however, the important role dogs play in our family and community dynamics.  They have been the spiritual companions of humans since before recorded history.  The fact that animals touch us in a deep, central place is not a modern-day phenomenon, but one that is fundamental to the history of the human-animal bond.  We somehow sense that we can benefit from our relationship with animals in a way like no other.  They offer us something fundamental:  a celebration of life by being completely present in the NOW.   Dogs, in particular, seem to 'feel' more purely than we do because of it - and perhaps we yearn to express ourselves with such abandon and integrity of being.  They never question whether or not they are worthy of love, but simply accept it as their due.  And they give back unconditionally, showing their joy in a human's presence without restraint.  Although they cannot 'talk' to us, they can communicate with us in a language not requiring words.  They help us understand that words may even stand in the way at times.  They offer us the unique opportunity to transcend the limitations of human perspectives, growing beyond our narrow viewpoint to grasp the interconnectedness of all life - to learn and exercise compassion.   

Part of their divine purpose is to assist humans, but by being connected to us for so many millennia, we too have evolved a purpose in their existence.  Thousands of years ago we took dogs as companions, domesticated them, allowed them to breed freely and have since abandoned them to their own devices.  As a compassionate and enlightened society we owe them our respect, our protection and our love.   We can start by taking responsibility by doing our part to bring about positive change in pet ownership.  As responsible animal guardians, it is incumbent upon us to do more than just fill their food bowls and take them to the veterinarian when they're sick. Bringing an animal companion into our lives is a big responsibility-one that means making a lifetime commitment to provide them with exercise, training, grooming, food, veterinary care, and, of course plenty of love and attention. 

If, after lengthy consideration of the profound responsibility involved, you still decide that a family dog would be a welcomed addition, the most sensible way to start the journey is to make a gift of all the items that would be necessary minus the puppy.  Gifts could include such things as a set of pet bowls, a brush and nail clippers, a collar and leash, a dog crate and perhaps gift certificates for future obedience classes and food from the local pet store.  Create some space and time to consider all of your options regarding adopting a puppy or perhaps consider a full-grown dog if the 'puppy stage' isn't as appealing to every family member (remember, many shelters will unfortunately be filled with adolescent dogs who have been surrendered looking for forever homes).  By the time the new dog is introduced to the family, the routine will have normalized in the household and the stress of the holidays will be a distant memory.  Take the time to teach your children about the shelters and why so many puppies find their way there.  They will most certainly understand why they had to wait the additional time to fulfill their dream of a family dog. 

Our companion animals help us in a variety of ways. They participate in our social and moral development, enhance our physical and psychological well-being, and heighten our capacity to love and experience joy.  They also teach us about death and loss and when they leave us, their legacy of loyalty, devotion and trust become our touchstone for a life well-lived.   Dogs remember a kindness and forget harsh words. They are extremely forgiving when necessary and will go to great lengths to be near a person who has taken care of them.   They wandered into our collective lives long ago.  They have taught us much.  We owe them still - we owe them plenty.

--  Adriana Pisano Beaumont