Open Paws, Open Hearts

By Deb D’Andrea
4TheLuvOfDogz
Making Tails Wag Better
www.4theluvofdogz.com

Happy New Year!

Every year it starts out with “I will, I want, I can” the wish list of things to do for the coming year. With my pups, my promise to them is to hike more. We live in such a beautiful area in Colorado with open trails, fresh air and so many places to explore. When I first moved here, I hiked the known trails and now knowing the unbeaten path, realize the areas unknown to the tourists. This time of year not many venture out, but those who do are rewarded with a beautiful adventure. I always pack a treat, for myself and my pups, a little water and a snack on trips. And my guys always have their halters on just in case I should get lost.

Our companions offer such an expansive love, encompassing all the positive parts of life: peace, love, joy. While enjoying the season with our human friends, be sure to include your furry friends too. They have an amazing way of giving, sharing, and being by our side through whatever we’re going through. Now is the time to appreciate that.

My parents always had an open home, and I too share this. I’ve opened my front door to see horses standing at my doorstep asking to come in.

It’s lovely, and sometimes difficult, seeing all the animals in need, at shelters, foster homes and places in between. We do what we can to help, but sometimes it just never seems enough.

A friend emailed me the other day asking for a reference for a good breeder of a specific dog and I referred them to PetFinder.com. Several of my friends have rescued dogs of all ages, me included. I found my little Tiki girl on PetFinder. I was living in Boston, she was in Paris, Illinois. Little did I know at that time how she would change my life and be the largest influence in what was to be.

So as you make your New Year’s resolutions, be sure to include your furry friends in your thoughts; cheers to them for always being by our side, offering a lick and open paw, and for us to open our hearts, giving them our unconditional love and caring.

Deb D’Andrea owns 4TheLuvOfDogz outside of Boulder, Colorado, providing mobile Canine Massage, PawQuatics, Canine Agility, and Dogz Nanny services. She also sells her homemade peanut butter dog treats. Contact Deb at 720-675-7078 or email: info@4theluvofdogz.com.  If you have questions regarding your pups, drop Deb an email.