My first topic in the a to z challenge was given to me by my faithful reader – sandyrara. “Animals and the role they play in our lives”. So here it goes……..
In all honesty, I have never been much of an animal person. We had exactly 3 pets in my family growing up – a kitten named Molly that was given away after 2 weeks because my Mom and middle brother were so allergic, a turtle (name unknown) owned by my older brother that died because the vet said it was “handled too much” and finally there was one dog – Tina – a Yorkshire Terrier the size of a large rat who was adorable albeit a bit damaged. The puppies were selling for $400 each but we got Tina for $100 because the breeder said she was “emotionally unstable”. I like to joke that my mother probably said “oh well then, we’ll take her! She’ll fit right in.”
Over the years I have come to see the value in pets – and in animals in general really. I think a lot can be said about a person just from observing how they treat animals. My younger son LOVES animals of all kinds. He even likes insects. I’ve often thought how interesting that fact is – perhaps, being made weaker and more dependent by disease, he can empathize with their vulnerability more so than most people. I kind of admire his love of animals.
Generally, I myself am afraid of animals. In fact, my fear of dogs was at a completely irrational level most of my life. But a few years ago we got a puppy and that has helped me feel more comfortable. I can’t speak to other sorts of pets – cats, lizards, fish, snakes and birds to name a few – but I do feel qualified to speak about dogs. Having had Ellie in our lives for more than two years now I finally understand the attachment people feel to these animals.
I have a saying that I often use to describe Ellie. “She takes love and she gives love”. Aside from the basic physical requirements of life like eating and sleeping this appears to be all Ellie is interested in. Who can’t love that?
Ellie enjoying a summer's day.
My wife and I have had pets in years past. I think she wants another one. But I — not unlike your son — love all animals, including insects. So in that sense, I feel we have pets in our home right now. LOTS of them. But I have to admit, Ellie looks like a real sweetie. And I’m sure she’s cuddlier than the fruit fly that’s buzzing around my laptop right now.
lol! Much cuddlier! I think you should indulge your wife and surprise her with a new pet! She’d appreciate it much more than the fruit flies I’m sure!
Great post – the love that “the boy” has for ALL animals is infectious and it makes me smile whenever he talks about them.
The memories of Tina – I can hear your Momma saying that – you made me laugh.
Can’t wait to read your next one : )
Thanks Babs! One down, 25 to go!!
I don’t think I can ever be an animal person. I had a nightmare when I was three about a a big black dog attacking me. Only months later that exact nightmare came true and I was attacked by a big black dog.
Yeah dogs don’t like me. I have been attacked four other times since.
Konstanz Silverbow
nothoughts2small.blogspot.com
thewriterace.blogspot.com
A to Z c-host
http://www.a-to-zchallenge.com
Oh my! I certainly wouldn’t like dogs either if I were you! I truly am still afraid myself a bit – especially of big dogs. Do you have other premonitions? If so, it’d be awesome if you could dream up a lottery win for that “underdog” blogging woman.
Great post! Good luck with the rest of the alphabet!
Dianna Fielding
sociologyfornerds.com
Thank-you Dianna. I am working on B as I type. And it ain’t pretty. lol! Day 2 and already challenged! I will check your blog as soon as I click post! Thanks for dropping by!
That’s awesome that your son is such an animal lover; they can make us so happy.
They sure can Danielle. Unconditional love. That’s why we get so attached to them!