by Bette Wayne

Created on: May 12, 2008

Extraordinary Friendships

They may be black, brown, red, white or gray; large, medium or small; male or female, but there is no doubt that dogs are our best friends.

Dogs are loyal, protective and understanding of our mood shifts. They ask for little in return: a warm bed, some food and water, and an occasional pat on the head. How many humans would be willing to give as much as a dog in return for almost nothing?

Not surprising to a dog lover, many breeds of dogs are being recognized as service animals. No longer are they confined to hunting or herding chores or guard duty. They are now able to perform innumerable chores for elderly or physically restricted people. Thy cheerfully visit hospitals and nursing homes to console and comfort patients. Doctors recognize their ability to reduce high blood pressure. Perhaps their most amazing feat is the ability to detect an epileptic seizure prior to its occurrence. Assuredly, their most endearing quality is the manner in which they lie at your feet and gaze at you as though you could walk on water.

A prime example of an intelligent and loving dog is my Border Collie. I adopted Princess when she was approximately two years old. She had bdeen abused, was skinny and nasty tempered. Like many humans, she needed someone to love her and accept her love in return. As I learned her moods and reactions to me, I detected signs of intelligence beyond the normal dog. (Border Collies are considered the smartest breed of dog.) She became "my girl".

When my grandson was an infant, I worried that she would be nasty with him. However, when the baby cried for a bottle or diaper change, Princess would herd either my daughter or me toward the baby. She had her way of telling us to take care of the baby immediately. When the little guy crawled and tottered, I still worried that Princess would have little patience for small but quick hands. She was a lesson in patience and positive thinking. Today they are great pals and pity the stranger who might try to hurt or nab this child.

Several years ago, I was unexpectedly hospitalized. When the doctor asked me one morning how I felt, I blurted: "I miss my dog". Later I learned that my dog missed me. My daughters said every time someone said Mom, (or the "M" word), Princess would get excited and look for me. Thankfully my doctor arranged for Princess to visit at the hospital. I don't know who enjoyed the visit more, Princess or me.

Yes, she is my best friend. We are friends because we learned to love and trust each other. We love and trust each other because we communicate. No, she doesn't speak English and I don't speak Border Collie, but as writers know, there are many forms of communication. Lots of people could take lessons in relationship skills from our dogs. They are indeed our best friends.

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