I recently spent time with my good friends who are proud parents of a beautiful 2-year-old boy. As we played with him, we observed his unbridled enthusiasm over his coveted toy truck, as well as simple things, such as sharing his mandarin oranges with me one by one. My friends discussed their son’s behavioral nuances and conveyed the trials and tribulations of being a parent. They would do anything for their son, they said. Each day, he reminds them of the innocent joys life brings. After listening for a few minutes, I told them I knew exactly what they meant.
He may not be a human child, but even so, I would do just about anything for my Lhasa Apso, Emerson. The day I adopted my now 3-year-old bundle of spunk at the Oregon Humane Society in Portland, Ore., I fell in love. Some might say I am overly indulgent with him. I recognize that he probably doesn’t “need” two different rain parkas, but let’s face it—it rains a lot here in Portland. His parkas keep him dry during our rainy winter and spring walks, while his warmer coats keep him toasty during chilly days. Without fail, Emerson becomes exceedingly exuberant when I open the closet and take out his leash or a jacket of any type. This, to him, means a walk is in store!
In contrast to his obsession with fresh air, Emerson possesses little interest in human food. This could be in part because I rarely indulge him in this foray of pleasure. In his world, this form of ignorance is bliss. However, when one of his favorite treats, such as a juicy steak, is for dinner, Emerson’s indifference to culinary pleasures gives way to a particular look of longing. His big, brown Lhasa eyes appear “hungry” in the most convincing way. Knowing that it’s best to limit the amount of human food I give Emerson, this becomes a trying moment for me. Sometimes, I break down and “throw him a bone” by adding a small portion of steak to his food bowl. It’s important to note that I avoid giving him any real bones, as I know they can be dangerous.
Seeing Emerson’s excitement and appreciation of a small, novel treat is contagious. It reminds me, just as dogs often do, to appreciate the small pleasures of life. This is one of the many lessons I have learned since becoming a Pet owner.
