My dog, Vito, is part of the family. Being that I mostly work from my home office, he is also my constant companion.

Wherever I am, there he is. Ever hopeful, that this is the moment I’ll throw his favorite ball.

If he could talk, no doubt he would be able to report every nuance of my behavior.

He may not know it, but,  I’m just as aware of his approach to life. And, I find myself forever pleased by the simple gems of wisdom he delivers.

As you may know, pit bull’s were originally “nanny dogs” bred to safeguard our children. It makes sense then, that he has so much to teach.

His contributions are many. These are a few of my favorites....

1. Just because you can kick someone’s ass, doesn’t mean you should.

I regularly take my pooch to the park or rollerblading.. Most every time we’re rolling along minding our own business, or playing fetch, a much smaller dog – especially mini Poodles and Chihuahuas — will come along and run at Vito, yapping away, sometimes teeth bared.

His reaction is usually the same; he barely acknowledges the wee one and simply moves on.

It’s a thing to behold an eighty-pound confident beast, who knows exactly what he’s capable of and would rather continue on with the fun he’s having.

The keyword here is confident. When you are secure in who you are, there’s rarely a need to explain or prove yourself. With a smile and a nod, simply go on with the fun you were having or the difference you were making!

Just because you could (physically or verbally) put someone in their place, doesn’t mean it would be helpful…even if you think they deserve it.

2. When someone is crying, being kind is more important than being articulate. 

I had a particularly hard day soon after I divorced, and really needed to have a good cry. I curled up on my bed and let it rip.

My sweet boy, Vito curled up next to me, let out a sympathy whine and gave me a nuzzle. He was there for me to give him a big hug, feel his velvet ears and finish my tears.

When those you love are hurting, being there and quietly loving them while they cry, is often much more healing then trying to talk away the pain.

When you’re not sure what to say, that may be your cue to simply hug them and stay close.

3. There will always be some people who won’t like you. Be happy anyway!

As you can see in this post-park photo, Vito is o.n.e. h.a.p.p.y. d.o.g!

Mostly, he’s seen as a lover, but because of his breed and mass there are definitely those who grit their teeth and cross to the other side when they see me walking him down the street…

Funny thing is, it doesn’t bother him a bit! His tail (which by the way is probably the most dangerous thing about him) keeps wagging, his big panting smile continues to beam and his happy-go-lucky trot remains.

I sometimes hold this image in my head whenever I feel the crush of another’s judgment…and in a flash, I too, am wagging, smiling and trotting.

Life isn’t always easy, but it can be SIMPLE!

How have your furry and feathered friends given you a fresh perspective?

Please share your favorites in the comments below…I can’t wait to hear!

In the meantime, have a beautiful day and remember that I am definitely in your corner...

Love,
Thais (and Vito)

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