I recently happened upon a news story that grabbed my heart, about Denver teacher, Kyle Schwartz, who asked her students to complete the sentence: “I wish my teacher knew…”. Some of the answers are funny, and some will break your heart, like: “I wish my teacher knew sometimes my reading log isn’t signed because my mom is not around a lot.” The project was so compelling that it went viral on the Twitterverse, (#Iwishmyteacherknew). Which led to an outpouring of answers from students all around the country. (“… that the reason I talk and laugh a lot in class is because school is really the only place I can be happy.”)
This project reminds me of the book PostSecret: Extraordinary Confessions from Ordinary Lives, initiated by Frank Warren for a community art project. Frank received more than a million postcards from all over the world, full of heart rending confessions, desires and regrets. Seems we all have something inside that we are afraid to say out loud.
You know where I’m going here, don’t you? After thinking about these projects, I began to think about what I wish my dogs knew. If only I could tell them.
Here are a few of mine; I very much look forward to reading yours:
I wish Tootsie knew that I’d give her more food if it wasn’t important to keep her from getting fat.
I wish Maggie knew that she doesn’t need to worry about dogs she has never met, because once she’s met them she always loves them and they have so much fun playing together.
I wish Tootsie knew that sleeping on my head makes my lungs unhappy.
I wish Willie knew that I am sorry that I am not the perfect owner for him because sometimes I raise my voice when I am tired and frustrated and the computer isn’t working and I know that he hates it if I yell out nasty words even though they are not directed toward him and I know he wishes that I never spoke in anything but a benevolent quiet voice and I wish I could always be that perfect, quiet person for him because I love him so very, very much.
What do you wish your dog knew…?
MEANWHILE, back on the farm: We are in lamb heaven, with lambs leaping straight up like popped popcorn kernels. We even call it “popcorn play,” because they leap up vertically from a stand, then twist their bodies and run sideways. Adorable. Three ewes have lambed (one set of twins, two singles) and Cupcake is overdue. Waaaay over due. I’m considering calling the vet. Or just having a martini.
Along with a Mother’s Day visit with his mom, Jim and I spent a heavenly weekend on the farm. Of course, we could barely get out of bed this morning, because we both worked like field hands pretty much sun up to sun down. Jim on fencing, me on gardening, working the dogs and managing the lambs. I swear I did so much digging, pulling and hauling of heavy things that I did it in my sleep last night. But, ah, the rewards! Here are some of the tulips from the little garden over Tulip’s grave. Oh my I love spring flowers!
Tonya & Dexter says
Wonderful, wonderful post! My heart breaks because I think of my thunder phobic golden retriever I had. Oh I just wish he knew….. My Cavalier is right there with Tootsie! ~Tonya & Dexter
Ashley says
I wish my dog knew that 60 lbs is too big to be a lap dog.
anne baker says
I wish my dog knew that any and every time I leave to go to the store (or wherever), I will always come back!
Lisa says
I wish Elsie knew that I would let her eat as much poop as she wanted if the vet hadn’t said it was a good idea to discourage the dog poop eating, if it didn’t gross other people out, and if she didn’t already have belly issues.
I wish Elsie knew that the cue for rollover is really supposed to be the fingers going around, not the touch on the shoulder, but I think it’s awfully sweet she figured out the shoulder touch even if it was an accident.
I wish Elsie knew how much people admire her — how cute she is, how buff she is, how sweet she is, how calm she is. But, maybe all the wiggly butt stuff and the kisses mean she already knows.
Kat says
Your tulips are gorgeous!!
I wish Finna knew that despite her early experiences people are not scary unpredictable monsters that most of them are very nice people who would pet her and give her treats if she’d let them. Barking, growling, and lunging are not required (she is improving just very slowly).
I wish Ranger knew that I’m sorry we can’t just let him loose to roam the neighborhood or release him at the nursing homes so that he can just visit on his own. Although I like to think we compensate for the limitations of suburban living pretty well.
Donna says
I wish my sweet fear reactive rescued Saudi wadi dog knew that opening a door or turning on a light or moving a chair is nothing to be frightened about and that I will always keep her safe and protect her from all the boogymen that live among my furnture and house. I wish she knew that even though she had a tough first year in life that most people are good and kind and not to be afraid of them. Hopefully one day. 🙂
Rachel says
I wish Sieger knew that I really do miss him every day when I’m gone away at work or school, that I still adore him even though I went and brought another puppy into the house, and that I admire his steadiness and courage so much.
I wish that Remus knew that barking is not the most effective way to make friends, even when all your other social cues are flawlessly friendly. I wish that he knew how much I love his cuddly nature and how he is the puppy I dreamed of my whole life. I wish he knew that he didn’t have to mimic every one of Sieger’s “neat” big boy behaviors (one male dog with the hots for the vacuum cleaner was quite enough).
I wish they both knew how I love to see them playing together and watching over my kids. And I wish they both knew how having them has given me my life back.
Frances says
I wish Poppy knew that brushing, bathing and grooming is something I do to her because as a poodle she would be miserably uncomfortable without it, and not because I am being horrible.
I wish Sophy knew that it is not necessary to reinforce the rules for the cats – even if they are not allowed to scratch the furniture or squabble on the sofa, her telling them off just makes things worse!
And I wish both dogs knew – or would remember – that the post people are thoroughly nice humans who often have treats in their pockets, and do not need to be greeted with a crescendo of barking, even if all too much of what they push through the letter box is junk mail!
But most of all, I wish and hope that they know how much I love them, and how much joy they bring me each and every day…
Mireille says
Oh gosh what a timely blogpost…
Spot, I whish I could explain to you why you are not allowed to lick the painful leashburn wound you have in your groin (ouch…. ) and why I have to touch it, cut away the hair, clean it, salve it. That a hood is actually better than a medical pet shirt (he panicked form the hood). That I really really love you…. even though I hurt you now. (he is starting to get very distrustfull and it really breaks my heart. He was castrated 10 days before, a week later we were back at the vets for this. Even the vet felt so sorry for him we got a discount on the bill. We didn’t even see it happen, noticed it the following morning. We think it was from a flexi leash? They were tangled in their leashes when very excited because of seeing three young badgers approaching … )
And more general: Shadow and Spot, please do not chase deer etc. I could give you much more off leash time to run and play….
Shadow, small dogs are still dogs (!) and not squeaky toys. So please don’t chase them! Then you can run around on the beach again.
Spot, It is NOT nice to challenge the rotties from around the corner, just because they are safely behind a fence. You are not a tough macho but just a big softy. And dogs running besides bike are not attacking you and are not inviting you to run with them. So please just let them pass.
And oh, yes, guys, the leash has a limit… even by sprinting very fast it will NOT get a couple of metres longer.. (ouch … )
Julie says
I too love your tulips, and love reading about the lambs.
I wish Sailor knew how much I would love to let him roam the neighborhood but that I can’t because people drive way too fast through our neighborhood.
I wish Skye knew that we choose our friends because of their warmth, kindness, and generosity; and that they can be trusted, that she shouldn’t be scared of them.
I wish Winnie knew how much the thought of losing her pains our hearts. She is still fairly young for a Springer, but has a rough time due to losing a front leg years ago (before she came to us as a rescue) as a result of getting hit by a car.
I wish all three of them knew that we will never abandon them, even during those very short walks to the mailbox and back.
Nic1 says
Tootsie sleeps on your head! Oh bless her….
Much like Willie, Lily has picked up on my frustration with technology. She’s my little mood mirror…
I wish Lily understood that as much as she doesn’t enjoy being left alone at home sometimes, I probably hate leaving her even more because I know she hates it too….
I wish she understood that it’s just not appropriate for her to chase cats, wildlife and want to hunt and kill hedgehogs but that I totally understand why she wants to do that.
I wish she didn’t have to be on offence alert for any large new dog whom she sees approaching and that she can trust me to always do my best to keep her safe and secure.
Cyndi says
I wish my girl, Stumpy, knew she never had to be afraid of anything, again. I’d lay down my life for her.
She’s come so far and she is so brave. she faces new things with so much courage. But the old things? A kid? A loud noise? Someone yelling? That stuff sends her into a quivering, puddle of fear and loathing.
Sharing this with a few of my facebook groups. What a great post.
LisaW says
I wish Phoebe knew that we don’t play or walk her as much because her body is in decline not because we don’t want her with us. And I wish she knew that I empathize with her frustrations and understand better every day that getting old is not for sissies.
I wish Olive knew that she could let go of the memories that haunt her, and I always have her back (and hips and knee). I wish she knew that I try my hardest to be the right person for her, and I often don’t feel I am succeeding, but I will always try.
Bruce says
I wish my dogs knew that . . .
Red Dog: Countersurfing when we are gone leads to a day in the crate.
Fluffy Dog: Our loud and deep-voiced younger son is not scary, and does not need to be continually barked at.
Pug: With patience, her knee will heal from its operation and be better than new.
I wish my dogs knew how much happiness they bring us. Red Dog’s joyful play with other dogs, enthusiastic recalls, room-length bounds through the house at dinner time, and 55-pound lab dog snuggles on the couch.
Fluffy Dog’s blissful rolls in the long grass, beautiful Sammy smile, and her growing confidence.
The Pug’s “purring” (OK, snorting) when her ears are rubbed, her belief that covering her eyes makes her disappear, and the way people’s eyes light up when they see her.
I wish they knew.
Robin says
So many of these made me cry, because so many remind me of what I wish my Bailey knew……
That these hands will never raise up in anger at her
These hands will never be used on her for anything but comfort.
That the noises are not going to hurt her, I will never let anything hurt her.
That for the rest of her life, she can feel safe, and cared for, and loved.
Mindy says
I wish my Tankers knew that when I raise my voice to his daddy(my husband) it has nothing to do with him, he isn’t in trouble, just his dad! I’m working on it buddy, I really am trying.
I wish Brennan knew that the couch is not a jungle gym and the remotes are not chew toys.
I wish Marley knew that you can’t catch the reflection no matter how fast you are.
Jen Donohue says
I wish Elka knew that barking dogs mean nothing because they’re inside or behind fences and even then I won’t let them get her. I also wish she knew that when she’s inside and barking at a dog IT’S THE SAME THING THAT BOTHERS HER SO MUCH.
Carol says
I wish my Duff knew that I am not abusing the cats when I groom them and there is no need to try and enlist my husband to try to get me to stop.
Donna says
I loove tulips as well – I am so glad to see how beautiful yours are atop your other beautiful Tulip.
I wish: both my boys knew how I think of them constantly when I am not with them.
I wish: Shasta could relax more in the car (a tad anxious after we were hit on our way to do a therapy dog visit), as he still loves going to see people every chance he gets. That he could be more content when I leave home – I promise I will return.
I wish: Spencer would let Shasta have a toy once in a while, I really do have more than plenty for each of you. And that when it’s 90 degrees out, I still love you but would prefer not to have you as a blanket at that time 🙂
I wish: I could be a better dog mom – I will keep trying.
Donna
Monika says
Delightful post. There are a few things I wish Sam knew:
I can handle ‘things’ all by myself in the bathroom, he doesn’t need to come and lay his head across my lap. He doesn’t seem to understand the concept of lacking thumbs.
It isn’t always necessary to be directly under my feet when I’m walking through a room.
He’s always going to be center stage, just wish he knew that! <3
Pam says
I wish my adopted senior Collie knew how much of a Godsend he’s been since the sudden violent death of my Border Collie four years ago. I wish he knew how proud of him I am that he’s become a registered therapy dog at his ripe old age, still giving back to those that are sad or hurting. Somehow, I think he knows. <3
Laura says
I wish REO knew that I would feed him anything he wanted if I didn’t know all too well how sick most foods make him.
I wish Zak knew how much he has taught my heart and soul on many topics.
I wish Tommie knew that laying across my collar bones when I’m trying to read is not conducive to my efforts…
LynnSusan says
I wish Gracie knew that she brought me back from the brink after my home was invaded. The gangly, neurotic, 10 month old puppy, who spent 7 of her 10 months in a crate (because one of her ears didn’t stand up)occupied me in so many ways, there was no time to re-live terror.
I wish she knew that she makes it so much easier to sleep at night, soothed by her rhythmic breathing,and easier to wake up in the morning to a big head plunked on the bed, lavishing me with gentle kisses and a big, happy, Shepherd smile.
I wish she knew how much she makes my heart swell when strangers comment on her beauty, her calm demeanor, her good manners and her sweet temperament.
And finally, I wish she knew that I will love her, forever and always as my true heart dog.
Jessica says
I wish Salinger knew that it turned me inside out to let him go; that I did my best to keep him comfortable and that I am sorry if he was ready before I was.
I wish Huck knew that my heart swells each time I look at him; that I am so proud of his patience, his acceptance, his gentleness; that I had no idea that I could love another dog so completely and so individually; (that I love the way his back legs are faster than his front legs).
Bonnie Jamison says
I wish my golden retriever, Buddy, knew that if love could do it he would still be able to run like the wind. And if tears could lift him up, he would float painlessly through each day with no care that he’s been a tripod for 15 years.
I wish my German Shepherd, Skye, knew that she doesn’t need to protect me from all the animals she barks back into the TV. Especially since she is losing sight and has to work so hard to see them.
I wish both knew that every day they fill my heart with joy…..more each day, with those beautiful grey puzzles, cloudy eyes and sometimes wobbly legs.
Andy says
When I think about all I wish my late Duchess knew I just start crying. There was so much she needed to understand about being alone, it was just so scary for her.
On a lighter note, I remember calmly sitting down with both her and Cecil one day and telling them, in no uncertain terms, that I would destroy anyone who tried to hurt them. I was only kinda kidding. I don’t think they understood my sentiment, but they seemed happy with it nonetheless.
amy says
I wish my dog knew ..he was to young to die …. at 7 years old..and I miss every single he day …..I would do anything to have him here to drive me crazy …
Lisa Clark says
I wish Rocky knew how much Ben our 14 year old worries about him. Every time something drops on the floor and he snaps it up and every time he runs out the door to greet someone and every time he coughs, Ben hopes all is well. I wish Rocky knew that his happy place on top of one of us when we sit or lie down is also our happy place.
Laura says
Torpedo:
I wish you knew how greatful I am that you were my guide for so long, doing it because I asked you to. I wish you knew that storms can’t hurt you. I wish you knew how happy it makes me that you are thriving in your home with the people who raised you to be a partner for me, and that you are still my weird, good, soft as a bunny boy.
Seamus:
I wish you knew that human sneezes are not something to be concerned about and that jumping into my lap is not necessary, but I also wish you knew, that I don’t stop you from doing it because it is just so cute and it makes me laugh. I wish you knew that chewing up my 90 dollar blue-tooth ear piece was not a good idea and didn’t need to happen. I wish you knew that when you have to be left alone at home, your chewing of nice things we have has resulted in you in the crate with a toy. I also wish you knew that it is adorable when you now self-crate when you see us getting our shoes on and you don’t see me reach for the harness. I wish you knew that you still baffle me. You will dive for a crumb if you see it on the ground, even when we’re working, but when a toddler has a smashed piece of cake in her hand and offers it to you, you won’t even touch it. I hope you know how very much I love you and that you are such a joy in my life.
gabriela says
I wish Chaya knew how much she means to me, how much I love her. And that I would love her to be off leash always, if mommy wasn’t so scared of what could happen.
M Patelke says
I wish my dogs knew that they got me through a terrible time after my husband passed away. they always knew when I needed to play or needed affection.
I wish my dog Jackson knew that I’d rather stay home and play ball all day, but we need to eat.
I wish my dog Tigger knew that I have trouble sleeping without him when I am away from home.
Natasha says
Tears as I read all of these beautiful wishes!
Like so many if you, I wish that my Stoli girl would know how nice people are, and that she would love their attention if she would just try. She gave me a chance but can’t seem to give anyone else a chance, even though she does like the treats that appear when other people do.
I wish she knew that my grooming is a form of love and she would look so beautiful every day if she would let me “fuss” with her more than ten seconds, and that going in the car could mean going to some fun places.
I wish my darling Mitri, my first Russian Blue, knew that he was my soul mate and that dying of cancer at age six still hurts me when I think about how loving he was, and that Vanya, our cat who got cancer at eight, knew that we loved him and didn’t understand that he was sick, and not just a fussy eater, until it was too late.
I wish Stoli and my young cat, Lexi, could figure out how to play together. They both love to play and would enjoy their days so much. And that Stoli doesn’t help things when she barks like crazy when Lexi is on a table or someplace he doesn’t “belong.” And I really wish my Yaki kitty would come downstairs and try to coexist with Stoli, and that Stoli would leave him alone!
Kim says
I wish Kaos knew how much I miss her.
I wish Jakers knew that he was the coolest dog I’ve ever known. I compare every dog I meet to you.
I wish Lady knew that I’m sorry I wasn’t there when she crossed the Rainbow Bridge. I still miss my pretty little Lady.
I wish Duke knew that he is not small enough to be a lap dog. I wish Duke knew that when I yell at him, most of the time I’m in a bad mood and it’s not his fault. I wish he knew that he is the best doggie cuddler I’ve ever met, even though he always manages to dig his bony elbows into me.
Dulce Manzini says
I wish my boy knew how very much I love him, and how scared I am of losing him . . . 16 is not enough, and I can’t imagine life without him.
Melissa L. says
I wish Cass knew that the thunder and lightning won’t hurt her while she is safe in the house with me. I wish that she knew that most people and other dogs are OK and she doesn’t have to be afraid of them.
diane head says
I wish my dog (Benny) knew that I’d way rather be home spending time with him than doing all the other mundane things that take me out that door AND that I will be back soon….that’s a promise!
Lya says
I wish my fearful shutdown girl knew I will keep her safe forever. And, I wish my calm pitbull knew how much he saves me from feeling depressed over a terrible and tragic loss of a preceding pitbull.
Sarah says
I adore this exercise!! It says so much about what our training should say for us, and I think I’m going to take it a step further and try to see how our training addresses the things I wish I could say in words.
I wish Chara knew that the reason we kept her cooped up for so long, and didn’t let her go up and down the stairs on her own, and refused to let her say hi to other dogs, was because she was injured, and we didn’t want her to reinjure herself. (This one was hard to say through training, and the only real thing we could do was make her secluded time fun through lots of brain exercises and make ordeals like carrying an 80 lb dog up and down the stairs positive).
I wish Chara knew that if she would only stop barking at our new kitten, they would get along fantastically, and she wouldn’t feel so lonely when we left because she would have a playmate. And also that Mac could potentially act as her partner in crime and knock tasty things off the counter for her to eat. (Since we can’t say these things in words, we try to say them by giving her really tasty treats whenever Mac is around/getting attention).
I wish she knew that she scares people when she jumps on them and if she only stood or sat quietly she would get so much more attention. (We try to say this by ignoring her when she jumps up and giving her attention and praise when she is being polite, but new people are not good at telling her with their body language not to jump up–she never jumps on us, but somehow she just can’t seem to generalize it to others!).
And last, I wish she knew how big and powerful she was, and how that can be intimidating sometimes. If she knew, maybe she’d stop knocking things over and pulling people around! (We try to say this by not letting her get anywhere when she’s pulling, and by requiring a sit before we enter/exit any new place. But it’s a tricky one, because usually it’s an accident when she knocks something over, or she’s pulling because she sees something that is better than the liver treat in your hand–and she is stronger than I am at this point!).
Beth Rodgers says
I wish my recently departed canine soul mate knew how much I truly adored him, sang his praises to everyone I knew, that I really recognized and appreciated what a special soul he was, and while I didn’t give him everything he wanted, I always, always, always did the very best I could for him and had his best interests as the motivation for everything I did. I want him to know he was always the very top priority in my life. I want my current dog to know that he takes the same place in my life, always my top priority, and that, since he was a former stray, he will never want for anything in terms of love, food, shelter, safety, the best care possible, etc. I want him to know that, as amazing as my last dog was, there is plenty of room in my heart for him to hold a very special place, too.
Pamela says
I wish my dog, Abbie knew that I will always keep her safe. That she doesn’t have to be scared of people she does not know, and that most people are actually very kind. I wish Abbie knew that I understand she had a rough start, and living on a field in TN as a tiny baby must have been scary at times. I understand that she was not properly socialized and that skateboards and bikes are scary, but I will never let them hurt her. I wish Abbie knew how much I love her big heart that she wears on her sleeve, regardless of her fearful behavior, I know she is the best dog ever. I wish Abbie knew how grateful I am for all that she has taught me about dogs and that I will always cherish my time with her. I also wish Abbie knew that the delivery man is often delivering new toys, treats and food for her, so she does not need to bark at him! =)
Tommye says
I wish Jagger knew how much I love him. He’s been such a blessing!
deanne says
I wish Buddy knew that he doesn’t need to fear anything. I wish Bernie knew that I’d trade my heart and hips with him. He deserves to be healthy. Clarice should know that heated conversation happens…she shouldn’t be afraid.
Susan says
I wish my little baby puppy Dakota would have known how very much I loved him before he died. I wish he knew that my heart aches still because I didn’t put him in bed with me when he was laying sick and dying and peeing in his bed.I wish he knew I hated to leave him alone, because I had to go to work. I wish he knew how that I did everything I could to try to keep him alive. I wish he knew that in the two short weeks I got to love him that he filled my heart with joy. I wish he knew that even though it’s been almost 5 years since his death, I still love and miss him so very much. Rest in piece baby boy. Mama will see you again one day.
Marie Baker says
I wish my Finnegan knew that I dream of buying him a hillside farm full of sheep and duckies to keep him busy watching over them all day, every day. Then when he’s exhausted at night, he would sleep soundly instead of waking me up to go outside 3 times a night to check what’s going on in the wee dark hours.
I wish my Figgie would understand that we just can’t go cruising and shopping every day because I’ve got to stay at home to take care of things around the house or it all falls apart!
Kris says
I wish Jackson knew that I will keep him safe and he doesn’t need to be afraid to go outside, and he will never be lost in a tornado again.
jody says
I wish my pups knew that when I take one of them out, their world is not going to end and that they will get their turn too.
I wish Chewie knew that I will always come home after I leave, and that even if I forget to kiss his forehead goodbye, I still love him deeply and I’m not abandoning him.
I wish Chewie knew that inanimate objects were not going to ever try to kill him.
I wish Hagrid knew that people and dogs at 30 feet were just as OK as they are up close. He always gets along once they’re close, but he has to announce them from a distance which can make others nervous.
I wish (maybe most of all) that Hagrid knew that animals on TV were not actually trying to invade our home – he doesn’t need to yell at them to leave.
Janet says
I wish Charlie knew that everything the vet and I do to his body is because we want him to have a long life of the highest quality.
I with Molly knew that I really would take her every place I go if only that were possible.
Michelle says
I wished Mowgli and Nuala knew how much I know that they’d rather hike or work all day rather than hang around under my computer while I worked.
stephanie says
I wish that my childhood dogs “Peaches” & “Mitzi” knew that they saved me. When my abusive father would beat me and then go after my dogs…we had each other. I would come to you and we would huddle together in the dog house and cry our pain away together. You were my best friends and you are now my guardian angels. It is because of “Peaches” & “Mitzi” that I now rescue dogs and volunteer at our local animal shelter. Thank you!
Antonia says
I wish my boy knew that I can’t feed him as much as he’d like to eat because he was diagnosed with severe CHD at a year old and as a giant breed, I have to watch his weight to keep him comfortable.
I wish Lily knew that water is not evil and that baths don’t mean mom has lost it and is trying to drown you.
I wish Pippy knew that I found you a new mommy and daddy because after everything we tried, I could not make it work for you and I want you to be happy, even if it means I am without you. I miss you every day and my heart is broken without you.
lynn says
I wish Stella knew that I am sorry i wasn’t a better dog owner, and that i didn’t learn about dog training before she went, though i am sure she knew she was loved.
I wish Jack knew that my heart swells each time I look at him; that I am so proud of him, his scary smarts, his fabulous athleticism and his big, loving heart, and that I had no idea that I could love another dog so much after Stella died. I wish Bella knew that she could trust me, though she had a rough start in life at a puppy mill, and is sometimes doubtful.
Jeanne says
Rex, I wish you knew that I will always keep you safe from other dogs, that most are not really trying to eat you, and that a play bow is almost always better than barking and baring teeth…that the car takes you happy places, and in it, we’re always together, and that maybe, if you played your cards right you might even be able to sneak a nap in the back seat. And I wish, wish you knew how you saved my life onceupon a time…and every single day. I love you with all my simple, human heart.
Sally CVT says
I wish my dogs knew that the cats are very important to me. It’s not ok to show them your teeth, they don’t want to hurt you or take your toys/bones.
Echo, it’s not ok to chew on their heads, but I still love you.
Trixie, it’s not ok to herd them so fast that you knock the gate down, but I still love you.
Ralphie, it’s not ok to be the referee between Echo and Trixie when they WANT to play, but I still love you.
Monty, thank you for being the bestest, most perfect dog for me. I love you with all of my heart and soul
Mary Eckstein says
I wish Daisy, my cavalier, would understand that when I cut her nails I am not going to kill her, have never done so and will never do so….and that eating cat poop is really not OK even though it must be the most delicious thing she’s ever tasted.
Ice says
I wish Kessen knew that he *needs* to eat his food, because he’s too skinny to skip meals all the time, and that I would give him move interesting, yummy things if his tummy could handle it.
I wish Inde knew that I understand he’s scared, but everything is not out to hurt him, and that I will protect him if he would just try new things.
Samantha M. says
I wish Buddy my Rat Terrier knew just how proud I am of him, when he tries so hard not to react to things that scare him. That I know he’s scared and that he trust me enough to be so scared but not bark or try to bite because I ask him not too melts my heart.
I wish Jinx my Silky Terrier knew that I will always come home for him, no matter what. Also that any dog that weighs only 17lbs is not a guard dog, no matter what he thinks.
Shawndra says
I wish Scout knew that if I could I would wave a magic wand and cure her bad genetics so she didn’t have to be scared anymore.
This sounds insane, but I think Lily knows everything already. We’re a little too much in tune with each other. 🙂
Randy says
I wish Howie knew that the faster he would come when I call him, the more freedom I would give him to run and explore.
Barb Stanek says
My dogs seem to understand almost everything that I want them to. I, on the other hand, do not always “read” them as well as I could .
My girl Trio would have liked me to understand that when she shut down during training sessions, it was because she had already done what I asked. She didn’t see the need to repeat herself.
My boy Sawyer would have liked me to understand that games with me are better than any training, any time. He would like to drop out the training and do much more playing.
Same theme, flip side. Figuring out what the other would like us to know. The challenge of life.
Thanks for the discussion.
Sue Schirmer says
I wish Tiffany knew that most mornings I would also much prefer to continue on our walk, rather than having to go back home because I need to get to work.
Sharon says
I wish my Willow knew how many moments I contemplated giving her to rescue, but now I couldn’t live my life without her.
Susan says
I wish Ozzie knew that I love to play ball with him…..
LisaW says
Reading all these wonderful wishes brought another wish to my mind.
To Phoebe and Olive: I wish I could have all of the people commenting over for dinner so that, Phoebe, you would know that your over-exuberant greetings, which have an unintended consequence of Olive snarking at you, are unnecessary. You will get your longed-for-attention when you’re calm (hard to train with the folks who come over on a regular basis). And Olive, you would know that people really can let you decide when to approach and when to lay back and visitors are a good thing and make us happy (well some of us anyway). And you really don’t need to keep Phoebe in line that should be our job.
liz says
Because it’s one of the rare occasions when I feel that perhaps ever so slightly, my good graces have been taken advantage of:
I wish my dog knew that I totally would’ve eaten the leftover third of a huge NYstrip if she didn’t need the extra high value treats for the vet.
Or that I didn’t quite yearn to park in the absolute farthest spot from the store entrance, but wanted them to come for the car ride and knew they’d have the best time in the quietest spot with the best view of the geese.
Or that instead of the new (insert item here) that I need, I have again purchased more chews, favorite treats, and unexpected dog items.
That said, they make countless sacrifices for me. Breaking chase, stopping the fun, leaving the favorite places, tolerating the seemingly never-ending baths post-skunking, all because I deem it so. Theirs are probably weightier sacrifices than mine, and I wish they knew that ninety nine percent of the time, I know that the give and take between us is just simply perfect.
Ravana says
I wish Zorro knew that I’m not always trying to abandon him, sometimes I just need to go into the kitchen or the bathroom. Also, when I do leave him alone I WILL be coming back. Oh, and bicycles are not horrible monsters.
Amy says
I wish my dog knew that while I love to cuddle with her when she needs me (during thunderstorms, etc.), sometimes her humans need cuddles too. Her reaction to illness is, “Hey, it’s sunny out. Let’s go play!” But I just threw up and I feel like death warmed over. “Whatever. Outside now? Still sunny! Let’s play!” But I’m feeling very sad/stressed/tired. “Blah, blah, blah. Play now?”
Dede in PA says
I wish Paden knew that lawn mowers are not border collie-eating monsters. And I wish all my dogs, past, present and future, knew that I sometimes limit them not because I want to spoil their fun, but because I want them to lead long, healthy, happy, safe lives.
Donna Brown says
I wish my dog knew…that I don’t control the weather.
I have been given dirty looks when they sink under snow crust, or have to go out in the cold rain.
I am so sorry, but I do not control the weather.
Claudette says
I wish Simba would know that I will never, ever abandon him, even if I need to make a quick trip inside the store to pick up milk, or to the library to return some books, while he sits for 2-5 min in the car barking desperately for me to come back. I also wish Simba would stop countersurfing because he will never go hungry again as he did as a stray puppy. Finally, I wish he would understand how happy and proud he makes me when we do agility together, because while doing something we both love, we also make new friends, travel to new places, and sometimes even pick up some ribbons, a medal or a trophy in the process.
I wish Meeko would know how his joy for life, his antics, his happy demeanor, endless energy, and thousand kisses make me smile every day. That even though my daughter would like to snatch him from me, he will be mine forever, but he can go visit her often. I also wish he would know that I really cannot have him on my lap every minute of the day, even if I work on the computer from home.
Debbie L says
I wish my dog knew that I really do love her when I trim her nails, pick her eye boogers, clean her ears, brush her including all the places she deems untouchable, groom her ever growing “chia pet” like hair, stick her in the bathtub, feel her bumps, listen to her chest, palpate whatever is aching, feed her numerous potions to help her senioritis and generally annoy her because our personalities are way too similar. I wish she knew how much that I hope we have another 15 1/2 years together fighting over who is the boss.
Elise says
I wish Pemba knew that she doesn’t have to worry so much about controlling the whole neighborhood. I wish she knew that people and dogs won’t hurt her or me. And that if she’d predictably ignore them rather than randomly bark at them, I’d let her off leash all the time.
Megan says
I wish my SA dog knew that I would never ever adandon him and I will always come back. I also wish that he knew that if he could be okay being alone, we could spend more time together. Sigh… We will get there, in time.
Sheryl says
I wish Daisy knew that after six years of living in an abusive home, she’s finally safe. Sometimes, though, we need to do scary things like go to the vet and strange (to her) people at the clinic touch her which terrifies her and I wish I could explain to her that it is sometimes necessary.
I am trying to give her as much of the life of a normal dog as I can while still keeping her safe from her sometimes overwhelming, debilitating fear.
I just hope she knows how much I love her
Jen in CA says
Thank you for all of the beautiful, funny, and heartbreaking comments here.
I wish that my heart dog, my outstanding retired therapy hound Marcie knew how much my heart breaks every time I look at her struggling with her inflammatory bowel disease and the explosion of her discoid lupus. I wish that the enormity of my love for her could make it go away.
I wish my Podenco Linus would realize that he is safe. That he will never live on the street again. That he is not now, nor will ever be again, left to starve. Or be yelled at. Or kicked. Or whatever other horrible things happened before he made his way to me.
And my big love bug Andy. Sweet boy, I wish that you would never grow a day older, but rather stay with me and make me laugh every day until we could cross the bridge together to meet your brothers and sisters.
Most of all I wish that you all will always have a dog to love.
Courtney says
I wish my dogs knew that chasing wild boars in the jungle could end very badly for them. I wish Layla knew that people we meet on our walks do not mean any harm and are just going about their business. No need to scare the living daylights out of them if they look at you or decide to take a quick photo of you.
I wish Dexter knew that if you walked calmly up to new dogs you would still get to meet them, just 4 seconds later than charging at full speed. I also wish Dexter knew that pythons are not to play with and that it’s better to keep your distance.
I wish Macy knew that the guinea pig enjoys their daily cuddling and bonding sessions just as much as she does. But pawing at the fence frightens her little friend.
Jessi Lane says
I wish Chloe knew that nearly every person who has met her, has offered to take her home with them. That she has changed multiple individuals minds not only about dogs, but about large breed dogs. She is the most gentle soul I know, and I would be beyond lost without her snuggles and cuddles. Even as gentle as she is, that she has a beautifully intimidating bark that will keep strangers at the door, at the door until I tell them “all she wants is love.”
I wish she knew that when the day comes when she isn’t here with me that I wont be able to get out of my bed for days, and that at nearly 11yrs old I have a terrible time not thinking about it.
But most of all I wish Chloe knows she is simply loved by everyone she’s ever met.
jackied says
I wish Lucy knew:
That partridges and pheasants kind of belong to the gamekeeper, but its ok to chase pigeons and rabbits.
That her bark is so piercing that it actually hurts human ears. Which is why they get cross!
That my friend Karen is very scared of dogs and it’s an honour that she likes you.
I wish Twix knew:
That people aren’t going to hurt him and don’t mean to alarm him.
That he’d be allowed to ‘talk’ to other dogs if he was a bit more gentle with them.
That the people who you are able to interact with understand how difficult it is for you and are very proud that you trust them that much.
That if you’d just stop barking hysterically at every passer by you could hang out in the nice living room instead of being confined to the kitchen so much!
Amanda Smith says
I wish my Gracie-Mae knew that not every strange dog that comes near her is going to hurt her & that I’d never, ever, ever let anything or anyone hurt her ever again.
I wish my Madison knew that loud noises & strong wind won’t hurt her & there is no need to be scared of thunder as it’s only God moving his furniture about & that she know that she really is too big to fit UNDER the sofa when she’s scared coz |I have to call my Dad to come & lift the sofa up to get her out.
I wish both my girlies knew that I’m sorry I can’t take them for ‘proper’ walks & run with them when doing agility anymore, it’s just my Arthritis won’t let me any more 🙁
Terri VanGrinsven says
I wish my Sully knew just how many times when I was in my dark place that he saved my life!
Jayni B says
I wish JJ knew that everything I say no to is because I’m protecting him from something potentially harmful. So no eating found food on the ground and no cat poop. No lunging at cats – they don’t know you just want to play, they can really injure you, even though you didn’t think it was so bad to be scratched a couple of times already. No, you can’t go after those skunks or opossums. And no, I can’t feed you like you’re a bottomless pit because you aren’t and need to lose a few pounds. So don’t look so crushed when I ignore you when I get something from the kitchen for myself. And life is boring sometimes and you have to sleep a lot because Mama has to work. Just know that I wish I could be with you every moment of every day and I think about you constantly.
Christy says
First, thank you for being so REAL!
I wish my Jorga knew really just how much I love her and that I would not ever let anything happen to her. That she can’t roam free because of cars, deer and people stealing her. That dogs and people coming to the house is a good thing and nothing to be scared of.
I wish BlueGal knew that I love her too and that she will always have her spot with us. That we’re not going to leave her and Jorga really does love her, she just doesn’t show it well. 🙂
susanne says
I wish Lille Jewel knew I would be a lot more excited about taking her out and about the fields if she could resist rolling in those delicious dead animals and poop. 🙂 And that I had hot water installed on our patio just for her rolling habits and my need to clean them off.
Whitney says
I wish my dog knew that I miss him all day too.
Katy says
LisaW – I have so much empathy for you; Claire-dog is likewise getting older and slower and I wish she knew that getting left behind when I take the youngsters out is not because I love her any less but simply because she hurts too much the next day after trying to keep up.
I wish Yuki knew that even though we have some pretty nasty dogs in our neighborhood, most of the dogs he meets are NOT going to attack him.
I wish Allie knew that a) I am proud of how much self-control she has learned in the past year and that b) if she would learn a little more, life would be so much better. Of course, we are working on that 😉
Trisha – when I was in grad school, we had a mouse colony and I remember being a little freaked out when I walked past and all the young mice jumped straight up. My professor told me that they call that stage of development “popcorn stage.” Your comment about the lambs made me think of that. Maybe lots of critters go through popcorn stage 🙂
Marjorie says
Socks, (my childhood dog) I wish you new how much you were a refuge for both myself and my father who suffered from PTSD from the war.
Taffy, I wish you could know that even though I was ill prepared and unexperienced to properly deal with your “issues” when I first brought you home, my intentions were all well meaning. I wanted the best life possible for you.
I wish you knew how much you have taught me, not only about you and dogs in general, but about myself.
I wish you could know that control can be over rated and that I wish you would let your sister have a little more of it sometimes.
I wish you could know that when I see you relaxed, calm and content in the presence of others how proud, happy and relieved I am at your progress.
Teena, I wish you knew that I wish I had more one on one time with you as I had with your sister.
I wish you knew that it’s ok to put your sister gently in her place when she is being bratty, I won’t get upset with you.
I wish you knew that people stare at you because you are so dam cute, not because they are trying to be scary.
I wish you knew how much your smile lights up a room and fills my heart and even though your sister can be a pain in the bum, she does love you.
SeniorVeterinaryStudent says
I wish my dogs knew
1. I only yell at them to get off the counter, out of the trash, etc. . . . because I know what happens when dogs eat things they shouldn’t, and I love them too much to let them go through foreign body GIT surgery.
2. That just because I smell like other dogs/animals, and spend hours away from home. . . I love them, and I want them to know that I love being able to go home at the end of the day and snuggle/cuddle and play with them!!!
I wish Stormaggedon knew that I love that he is such a good “big brother” to River, but he doesn’t need to protect her or me all the time. It is ok for her to play with other dogs!
Christy Paxton says
Oh my, oh my. You guys are making me cry! How marvelous to have this to think about today.
I wish my darling Tawny knew how important she is to me, and how proud I am of who she has become. She reminds me daily that one should never say never when it comes to what a dog can do. She forced me to become a better trainer because the “usual stuff” didn’t work with her, but she is now literally my calling card. She made me develop patience when I had none. I’m stunned to say she is an unofficial therapy dog for my mom, who is a dementia victim. I am awed and humbled by her. I wish she knew. I believe I will be able to tell her someday!
Slimdoggy says
Love this post. I wish our fearful Maggie knew that we would never ever do anything to hurt her – she has nothing to be afraid of here. I wish Jack knew that I’m not going to abandon him – he doesn’t have to stay within 2 feet of me 24/7.
Frances says
And from the other side…
Poppy – I wish my Mum understood how sad it makes me when she goes away and leaves me – she says it is just for half an hour, but it always feels as if it might be forever.
Sophy – I wish my Mum knew that even if I am smaller and fluffier than she is, I am still a grown up and old enough and sensible enough to do as I please!
Tilly-cat (AKA Empress of the Known Universe) – you mean she doesn’t know everything I need her to know?! You are joking, aren’t you??
Tham says
I wish Archer knew that I’m trying my best to understand what he’s telling me, especially when he seems frustrated with my apparent random responses. Yes, he does this audible sigh and even rolls his eyes – left then down – when I wildly miss the mark. Oh how I wish I could speak dog so I could be there for you in ways that you’ve always been there for me.
Kat says
I started to say that I wish Ranger knew that the world does not always order itself for his pleasure and convenience but then I realized that his world pretty much does.
Lacey says
@ Katy and Trish:
Once I was lucky enough to see a baby rhino in that popcorn stage (in the Wild Animal Park here in San Diego County. Though nowhere as agile as a lamb or a mouse, he was definitely frolicking his best.
KIm J says
I wish my Rosy knew: that I want to be the best teammate for her, but that I fail her far more than she ever fails me.
I wish my Bridie knew: I would never leave her alone forever and that I always loved her to the hilt.
I wish Ricky knew: that I was sorry I didn’t understand his issues and that I didn’t have more patience with him.
Barbara says
I wish Miley knew that I am doing my very best for her, as are all the veterinarians and specialists, and that even though we don’t know how to make her all better I’ll keep researching IBD and cooking special foods and spending money until, until, until, Oh, God, I don’t know until what. How can I ever look my beautiful girl in the eyes and tell her I can’t do it anymore? Thank God for my loving husband who never asks me what it costs.
Barbara says
Jen in CA. I am so sorry to hear of your Marcie’s struggles with IBD. My heart is breaking for Miley and now for you and Marcie too. I wish you all the best.
Sheila says
I wish my dogs knew that even though I am a very flawed human, I love them all more than life itself. I wish my boy who passed last July knew that I would give anything to have had more time with him and that I miss him more than I can say.
Lesli Hyland says
I wish that that Tawnie knew that I will ALWAYS take her with me whenever it is safe and logical to do so…so she could stop stressing about it!
I wish that Pogo knew that if I could do it all over again I would spare him the last 5 days of his life, but that I wouldn’t change a single minute of the rest of our time together.
I wish that Dinah knew how much I miss her crooked smile and that I will never forgive myself for not protecting her.
I wish that Annie knew that I forgive her.
Sue says
Oh, and something else: I wish Tiffany knew how embarrassing it is when every time we have dinner guests she tries to put her nose on the table to check out the food (and help herself…) – something she NEVER does when we don’t have guests – a fact that somehow my guest never seem to believe 😉
Judi says
I wish my lovely border collie, Tana, understood that I will always come home to him, just as I have done for the past 12 years. He is my rock, and I will never leave him. – Judi
liz says
I wish Bear knew that I could watch her for hours. She’s impossibly cute, independent, and determined, and her approach to life is a thing to behold. When she catches me staring, I wish she knew that I’m watching in admiration, not out of a desire to change her behavior or groom her or something.
I wish Goose knew that I take his trust in me as one of life’s greatest compliments.
In so many moments together, time sort of stops and nothing else exists. You bring me peace.
Tami says
I wish Buffy the collie puppy knew inside stairs are just like outside stairs, and not to be feared. I wish she knew Elliston is a 16 year old cat and not a small dog; she doesn’t want your chews and she doesn’t understand you just want to play. And Buffy, I wish you knew we love you even when Elliston’s sitting in our laps- no need to be jealous!
Elliston, I wish you knew that Buffy means no harm, and how overjoyed we are that you are beginning to be braver than ever, and are spending more time downstairs. I wish you knew that someday Buffy will conquer the stairs, and even then you will have plenty of safe places to rule the house. And finally Elliston, I wish you knew that we miss your sister Zora too, and I wish you knew how much Zora would have loved Buffy, because that would have helped you love Buffy, too.
Kelly Schlesinger says
I wish Jet knew that we really, really would like for him to hang out with us and watch television more than he does now if he would just STOP JUMPING ON OUR HEADS.
Sherry Langevin says
I wish my dogs knew that I would like to have 8 pairs of hands, for the moments that they all want loving at the same time. I wish I had enough time in the day to do ‘everything’ with them, if I could, but, alas, a long walk, (sometimes a bit shorter) a brief (or sometimes slow) massage/tick check, hand feeding a tidbit or two to each of them, tiny bit of one minute training, etc, is what I can mostly manage.
I wish my dogs knew how much I appreciated them, and how much comfort they have given me through some very rough times.
Vicky in Boise says
I wish that Carson, Zoe and Hobbes knew that while I am sorry for their sad beginnings, I am so glad that our home is their forever home.
I wish Hobbes knew how much I look forward to training sessions with him because it is always such fun!
I wish my dogs, past, present and future knew that one of the best things is a crackling fire in the fireplace, a mug of tea, a good book or a board game with the kids and border collies snoozing contentedly nearby.
Bruce says
I wish Red Dog knew how happy and proud she made me today. We spent six hours in the woods, mostly off leash, and she stayed in sight the entire time, recalled enthusiastically, greeted people politely, did not chase critters, and ran and played nicely with a 9-month old Blue Heeler (after a six-hour hike!).
“Good dog!” just doesn’t seem good enough sometimes.
Red Dog has so much personality it is hard to remember life without her, and hard to believe she has only been with us for a couple of months.
Mary Ann says
I wish my dogs knew that the love I feel for them is a conglomeration of all the love I’ve had for all the dogs in my life. I wish they knew that the reason I invite other needy, sick, lonely, traumatized or pregnant dogs to live with us for awhile is because we have enough love to go around(although sometimes I’m as glad to see the fosters leave as they are). I wish the dogs I loved before could know that I made a lot of mistakes with them that hurts my heart to remember, and I’m trying hard to make it up to them by giving all I’ve got now. I wish my dogs knew that I would love to be able to understand “dog”!
Rachel says
This afternoon I wish Remus knew how proud of him I am. We’ve been working on calm meetings with other dogs and the “Watch” cue when he’s aroused. Yesterday while hiking we passed three other dogs on a narrow trail and he pulled over politely and sat quietly to let all three pass. Today while walking we encountered another dog that barked and snarled at him, and he stayed calm and make perfect eye contact with me when I told him to “watch.” We passed the barker without breaking stride and without any lunging, barking, growling, or whimpering on his part. I’m thrilled to see our hard work paying off.
Diane says
I wish my dog knew that staring at other dogs is not necessarily a friendly gesture.
My dog wishes that I knew a bit more about dog behavior.
MN says
I wish Griffin knew that when he came into my life, he brought back all the joy I had lost in the previous year.
Annie says
I wish all my foster dogs knew I wasn’t abandoning them again. I wish they knew that I was not just one more person in the line of people that got to know them then dumped them. I wish they knew that I helped them, and that I was always just a phone call away from their new owners. I wish that leaving my home and having to adjust to a new one was not one more of the things in the back of their mind, building up and hopefully not sending them over the edge.
ondrayah says
I wish that my beloved Lab Abbey knows how much I love her. After 13 years together we are more connected emotionally than ever. I hope she knows how much it makes me happy when she lets our sweet cats rub their faces on her even though it makes her uncomfortable. And I wish so much that she could go for a proper walk with me instead of a “limp and sniff” . She’s the best!
John St Clair says
I wish Olivia knew that some people are afraid of Rottweilers. She thinks everyone should love her like I do.
Nancy says
I wish my dog knew that I hate the way I reacted all those nights that he was up pacing, whining, peeing and unable to get comfortable due to Canine Cognitive Disorder.
That i wish I could have overcome my exhaustion and been more sympathetic & understanding & capable at alleviating his pain and discomfort.
I wish he knew that I regret every single mean thing I said during those nights with every fiber of my being. I wish I could relive those days and I would do it oh so differently bc I would understand.
I wish he knew that I cry every day bc I couldn’t make him better and I was oh so frustrated.
But he’ll never know bc he passed away on 11/3/14 @ 17.5 years old.
I lost the love of my life, my best friend, ultimate supporter, & bed warmer. I wish he knew how much he meant to me…
I wish I knew he didn’t hate me and knew I tried as well as I could. I hope his doggie heaven is a borderless expanse of fields and forest. With an abundance of squirrels and smells. Where he can be young and healthy again.
Love u BeaglePie.
Melody says
Do they know….my heart tells me yes it is so….
But regardless… to our pets who have gone I hope you knew :.Saffy girl your “sticks in the air” was your unique way of saying how much you trusted us after such a tough early life. Kitzie your forever green eyes, I’m sorry I waited to let you go to your rest, losing you was losing part of me. Jellybean….you were the first to pass and again we should have seen you needed help to leave sooner. Buster – how happy we were you were ok with 2 cats in residence. Mischief – I still wait for you to do your silly things and miss my lap cat.
To those with us: Poppy -we’re nice and warm when we are awake too come sit on us then too; Pollie – getting your nose kissed happens in our house; Callie – we have to love on your marshmallow belly; Jenna – ole grandma dog you can’t live on biscuits alone and we love you even when you pretend not to hear us say it is time to come in; Lucy – its not necessary to eat dog or cat poop and we would stop your allergy itching if we could honey.
Sue says
I wish Simon knew that he doesn’t have to be afraid of so many things….that I’ll always protect us from big people…little people…bikes…cars…flags and everything else.
I wish he knew that he doesn’t have to control his feline siblings or his young human cousins….that they aren’t challenging or threatening him or me…that they just speak a different language…one where staring, being still or coming near me isn’t a bad thing.
I wish he knew that the treats will never run out…that his day care aunties and I will always make sure there are enough…that his cats are not trying to steal them simply because they come nearby.
I wish he knew that I’m trying really hard to learn how I can help him be less afraid and less controlling and more at peace…so he and I can explore the world more…so he can be more relaxed around his cats…so he can be around his young human cousins without a muzzle on.
I wish he knew that even if we don’t quite figure it all out…even if he bites Mama a few more times along the way…that I will always love him more than he’ll ever know and that I’ll never stop trying to help him.
Ally says
I wish my girl knew she didn’t have to be so afraid because I will always have her back.
I wish my last pup knew that I’m sorry I didn’t know then what I know now. That I’m sorry I didn’t know how to communicate more effectively but that wasn’t her fault. If I could go back in time, I would in a heart beat and I would be so much better for her the second time around.
Jerry says
I don’t have a dog, but I do have a wish.
I wish canine owners would acknowledge that we kill tens of millions of rabbit, turkey, tuna, buffalo, pig, pheasant, lamb, beaver, chicken, salmon, duck, a variety of wild game, etc. to feed our preferred, privileged, and pampered canines.
I think this is sad. I know the duck would rather be on a pond than in a tin can for a canine. Why do we kill some animals for other animals?
The bovine really wants to live just like the canine. I know … bovines were meant to be burgers and canines were meant to be companions. What a lousy morality we live by!
The lamb wishes we wouldn’t judge him, condemn him, and pressure-pack him in a tin can.
Can we morally justify our condemnation of some animals for the benefit of our preferred animals?
Some feedback would be sincerely appreciated.
Daisy says
I wish people like Jerry wouldn’t troll one of the few positive comments sections on the internet.
If you don’t have a dog, is this really the appropriate venue for your post? Canines are a “preferred” animal because they have helped the human species thrive throughout history. Felines are a “preferred” animal for a similar reason. Reciprocity is common practice in the natural world, why should humans be any different? Would your bovine protect a human settlement for little more than food and affection? I doubt it. The answers to your questions can be found in the history of human relationships with animals. You should look there instead of trolling this otherwise pleasant comments section.
Trisha in VT says
I wish Tesla knew that
– every time I have to leave him behind I am just as miserable about it as he is.
-the number of baths he has to endure is directly relational to the number of dead things and/or wild animal poop he rolls in.
Tommy Neblett says
I wish Manya, my Siberian Husky, knew that she saves my life every day.
Bill says
I am glad that Pal doesn’t know how heartbroken and empty I feel since he died last week (after a very long and good life) and how much I miss him.
Jenn says
I wish Emma knew that I spend more time training Waffles than her because he is a natural born asshat and she is an angel.
I wish my childhood dog knew that I’m sorry for not sticking up for her and that learning about dogs as an adult was heartbreaking because I realized how unhappy she must have been.
Stephanie says
I wish shady knew that I always loved him just like a child, that I would of done anything to protect him no matter how detrimental to me that task was, I wish he knew that my love was unconditional and that I learned so much from him as I grew about how to remain calm. Above all I wish he knew that I made that final decision because I couldn’t bare to see him suffer anymore… he was my heart, my best friend and I still do not know what I am going to do without him by myour side. Rest in peace shady puff…
Robyn says
First, I wish I knew goodbye that morning would be our last, and just how sorry I am for going to work that day when he passed alone.
I wish Noah knew, during his last minutes here, that I would never intentionally leave him alone when he needed me most. I wish he knew how much I love him as he took his last breath. I wish he knew I think about him every single day, and that he took a huge piece of my heart with him when he left.
Finally, I wish he knew throughout his 12 year journey through life with me that he was my very best friend and I would have done anything for him! Goodbye my “firstborn” fury baby boy, I will always love you with all my heart!