There’s no one better than our dogs to remind us of the present moment. They can offer ground when you can’t find it yourself. They don’t get caught up in drama and provide snuggles when you need them.

This week offered two emotionally charged meetings at work. Coincidentally, different pups were also in attendance. This is not the norm…but it should be.

The first was a therapy puppy in training. This little guy kept to himself on the carpet, chewed his squeaky toy and seemed generally disinterested in our emotional conversation. Every now and again he’d lift his head, look around and sigh to remind us he was there before falling asleep. He practiced as much patience as a puppy can and did quite well. I was comforted by his presence and felt more grounded because he was there.

The subsequent meeting was attended by a teacher’s pet (no pun intended). There was a doggie daycare issue and timing called for his attendance that day. He lay there leashed to his owner and intermittently whined with anticipation that they might have gone outside to play. He was never disruptive…just attentive enough to to let her know he was present and eager to leave whenever she was ready.

For all the times they chew our favorite things, shed all over, eat things they shouldn’t and throw up on the floor there are thousands more when they offer unconditional love, greet us excitedly at the door, warm our feet, offer cuddles, help us get exercise and listen to our hearts with open ears.

This is my thank you note to dogs. You embody living in the moment and you’re some of my greatest teachers.

xo