My dog Waldi, a rescue from Mexico who’s become my best friend in six short months, recently qualified as a therapy pet. He teaches me how to live moment by moment — by showing his excitement over food and me (in that order), his unease with people on skate boards, his dislike of rain. Twice a week we visit residents in psycho-geriatric care and patients awaiting cancer treatment. From time to time, we’re called to attend at hospice or to hang out with kids. Here’s a postcard about the latter, in 50 words or less:
Day camp for developmentally challenged kids.
Everyone loves my wiener dog.
Little girl, wearing cowboy boots and thick glasses, sits all by herself.
“Would you like to say hello?”
Not a peep.
Cautious hands touch velvety ears.
“Doggy . . . doggy,” she whispers.
Tears welling up.
She is delightful. There is nothing better than the unconditional love of a dog. What a joy for you.
Waldi should be rewarded with sausages and cheese! What a great dog and friend to all.
Waldi is metta incarnate.
What a great partnership. Gratitude for both of you. Start my day with a smile, grateful for the smile. Thank you.
When I look into my dog Baxter’s eyes, I feel like I have entered into another realm – one of total acceptance and love, and I see that same trust in Waldi’s eyes. It is so beautiful. We as humans are so lucky, no? I mean, to have these four-legged relatives. Thank you, Peter, for all you and Waldi are doing to increase the warmth and loving-kindness in this world.
Beautiful! Best therapy for everyone 🙂