In recent surveys, the top three answers given by the general adult population were: “my spouse / partner”, “my mother”, then “my dog”. The question? Who do you consider your best friend?
Viewing a dog as a best friend might be a stretch for some people, but not for me. I just need to think of the adjectives I use to describe my human friends – loyal, amusing, reliable, sincere, sweet, kind, and fun among others. All the four-legged friends I’ve had since childhood share similar qualities and traits.
From my journal: June 30, 1993, Rolling Hills Estates, California
“Checked our garden today…the carrots were gone! Thought it might be rabbits, but then I saw the pawprints…it was Bagel! Couldn’t help but laugh.”
Evidence suggests that the bond between humans and canines began somewhere around 25,000 years ago when people migrated throughout Eastern Asia and dogs followed. This connection has proven to be beneficial for us, and for them. Once domesticated, dogs were used as guards protecting against predators. They were helpful in pulling sleds and carrying supplies. Some dogs still perform these duties today, as well as acting as herders, drug and bomb sniffers, hunters, and service dogs for people in need.
Because canines are social pack animals, they can adapt to households and become members of the family. If you share your home with a dog, most likely you know the feeling of being greeted by a wagging tail, happy face and perhaps kisses anytime you are reunited after being apart. You may know how good it feels to see your dog’s response to belly rubs, a game of fetch, and hearing the word “Walk”. Petting, cuddling, and playing with a dog can be as soothing and meditative for us, as it is for them. In this symbiotic relationship, we may look to them for companionship, comfort, and fun. Whereas they look to us to fulfill their every need, elevating us to rock star status in their soulful eyes.
From my journal: July 5, 2007, E. Twickenham, England
“Met a nice British woman at the gate when I was taking Lox for a walk. She called Lox ‘brilliant’(!) and invited me to join her and a couple of ladies who garden at the Orleans House…will go next week!”
It has been well-documented that people who live with a dog, have lower risks of cardiovascular disease due to maintaining an active lifestyle, reduction in feelings of loneliness because of time shared together, and increased opportunities to get out and socialize. All of these benefits can lead to a longer and healthier life for both you and your pet. And the unconditional love they provide us is invaluable.
From my journal: April 15, 2021, Newbury Park, California
“Capers and Kashi are resting now…so sweet and endlessly amusing. We’re so lucky!”
Having dogs for most of my life, I can definitely understand calling a dog, man’s best friend. This phrase became part of our lexicon in 1870 when a lawyer named George Graham Vest was defending a man in the American Supreme Court. Old Drum, the man’s coon hound had been killed by a neighbor for trespassing on his property. Vest argued that the man took not only the life of a pet, but a family member, as well. He is quoted as saying, “The one absolute, unselfish friend that man can have in this selfish world—the one that never proves ungrateful or treacherous—is his dog.”
From my journal: May 30, 2023, Newbury Park, California
“Kippers and I hiked the Potrero Trail today…he’s a trooper! We’ll do a lot more hiking this summer. So many trails to discover! He’s come a long way in the last three months – yay!”
We are just at the beginning of our relationship with our newest dog, Kippers. It’s requiring a lot of adjusting as we learn about each other, and teaching him about the world, and training him how to live in it. But in time we know our bonds will become stronger and our lives richer as our friendship grows. Of all the great sayings there are about man’s best friend, the one that rings truest with me was said by W. Bruce Cameron. It is, “When you adopt a dog, you have a lot of very good days and one very bad day.” We are looking forward to all of those very good days ahead.
A Journal Journey 