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Motivation Mondays: Twenty Life Lessons Pets Teach Us

27/08/2018

“Pets are humanizing. They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life.” James Cromwell

Motivation Mondays: Top Twenty Lessons Pets Teach Us

Motivation Mondays: Top Twenty Lessons Pets Teach Us

Until one has loved an animal a part of one’s soul remains unawakened. Anatole France
Animals are such agreeable friends – they ask no questions; they pass no criticisms. George Eliot
Way down deep, we’re all motivated by the same urges. Cats have the courage to live by them. Jim Davis
When we adopt a dog or any pet, we know it is going to end with us having to say goodbye, but we still do it. And we do it for a very good reason: They bring so much joy and optimism and happiness. They attack every moment of every day with that attitude. Bruce Cameron

FIRST PETS: Do you remember the first pet you ever had? My earliest memory of a pet in my family was of our Jack Russell Terrier, JB. He was a mix of white and brown spots and had the energy of a workhorse. He loved chasing birds, chickens, and anything small that moved, including toys. We learned many of the lessons I’ve included in this post with/from him, because he had a great zest for life and was a very social, happy and active dog. Because JB enjoyed playing, we often had races with him on the street. He would win. In the rare event, when it seemed like he was losing ground, he’d get a bit aggressive and whimper. He was a delightful dog with many great qualities; He was courageous, curious, and motivated. He wasn’t afraid to go after what he wanted and chased little critters with great joy and an optimistic spirit.
JB taught us to be humane and responsible as we had to make sure he was fed and cared for and that is often a tall order for most kids. When we called his name, he would come close, listen intently and patiently, Then,he would simply follow our instructions. We loved him dearly and he loved us back. It didn’t matter what the game was, he was ready and able to join in without any qualms or complaints. Unfortunately, JB’s life came to a tragic end when he chased a ball into the street and got run over by a car. We mourned his loss and, for a number of years, no other pet entered our household. We could have claimed the chickens in the coop behind our family home as an easy pet replacement but they were not. They were strictly part of the family food chain, as were all the other farm animals. Over time, another dog or pair of dogs took center stage in our home. They were attack dogs and, by then, I had left home for boarding school.
Sunday was National Dog Day so it is apropos that we talk about this very important subject. I also happen to live in the 2nd largest dog loving state, NY.  A lot of people have pets here so there is always access to helpful information for new owners. As much as we believe we teach our pets ways to interact, our pets can teach us qualities that we all need in order to function well in society. They bring a caring sensibility to the relationship they build with new owners and, if reciprocity is our strongest suit, it can make for a long lasting, stress reducing union.
❤Humanity
❤Responsibility
❤Motivation
❤Optimism
❤Courage
❤Non-judgemental
❤Acute Listening
❤Curiosity
READ: 11 Important Life Lessons Pets Teach Us by Miriam Roelink, MS
So, You Want a Pet Guinea Pig?

 

 

“Animals are reliable, many full of love, true in their affections, predictable in their actions, grateful and loyal. Difficult standards for people to live up to.” Alfred A. Montapert

Motivation Mondays: Top Twenty Lessons Pets Teach Us

Motivation Mondays: Top Twenty Lessons Pets Teach Us

An animal’s eyes have the power to speak a great language. Martin Buber
No one appreciates the very special genius of your conversation as the dog does. Christopher Morley
I love cats because I enjoy my home; and little by little, they become its visible soul. Jean Cocteau
There’s a saying. If you want someone to love you forever, buy a dog, feed it and keep it around. Dick Dale
If having a soul means being able to feel love and loyalty and gratitude, then animals are better off than a lot of humans. James Herriot

Love And More: One quality we often hear when people talk about their favorite pets is unconditional love. Our pets love us implicitly and show their devotion in so many ways. Whenever I leave home, our cat Tangy, makes sure to sit by the window at a certain time when he anticipates my arrival or the arrival of another family member. For some reason, he seems to know exactly when that will be because I’ve observed him hit that perch just around the time another family member comes home. Our pets are not only devoted, they show their love in unspoken ways and can communicate with us by telepathy… Yeah, some of you might think that is crazy but pet owners who have such a connection with their pets understand this. Also, one of my best friends told me how her family cat could sense when someone was feeling down or ill, and she would cuddle up to show and give support. Our cat does that too and it never ceases to amaze me how consistent the pattern is.
Our pets depend on us for their sustenance so, the gratitude comes with knowing we’re there to provide food and shelter for them. Pets don’t take that for granted;especially pets that come from shelters. Our cat came from a shelter and he’s very protective of his home, his human family and his space. He can also show affection in the funniest ways. For instance, he’d climb into the laundry basket just as you are getting ready to pick it up. He’d casually roll on his back, stick his paws in the air and meow… Hahaha, a cat’s life. When we have pets in our households, we learn so many lessons from them. Even though the lessons might seem so small, if we think about the interactions we have, and the open and loving way our pets show their trust and respond to us, we could all learn about letting old stuff go. Be open to new experiences and forgive the past. Yes, our pets are very focused on the predictability of the present moment/

❤Unconditional Love
❤Power of unspoken
❤Reliability/Predictability
❤Intuition
❤Attentiveness/Patience
❤Loyalty/Devotion
❤Gratitude
❤Humor
READ: 10 Scientific Benefits of Being a Dog Owner
10 Scientific Benefits of Being a Cat Owner

 

 

The details for Motivation Mondays are below. Join in! The themes for JULY 2018/AUG 2018 are:

JULY

07/01   –  04, Independence Day
07/08   –  11  World Population Day, 14 Bastille Day
07/15  –  15 National Ice cream Day, 18 Nelson Mandela Day
07/22   –  22 Parents Day,
07/29 –    30 International Day of Friendship, Day against Trafficking

AUGUST

08/01   –  Girlfriend Day
08/06   –  Friendship Day, World Indigenous People Day,
08/13  –   International Youth Day
08/20  –   World Humanitarian Day, MTV Music Awards
08/27   –  National Dog Day

 

 

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– Join the Daily Post Post-a-day or Post-a-week Challenge.
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— Join the BlogHer Writing Lab

 

More Below!
“Animals are sentient, intelligent, perceptive, funny and entertaining. We owe them a duty of care as we do to children.” Michael Morpurgo

Motivation Mondays: Twenty Lessons Pets Teach Us

Motivation Mondays: Twenty Lessons Pets Teach Us

Motivation Mondays: Top Twenty Lessons Pets Teach Us

Motivation Mondays: Top Twenty Lessons Pets Teach Us

I wish people would realize that animals are totally dependent on us, helpless, like children, a trust that is put upon us. James Herriot
There are two means of refuge from the miseries of life: music and cats. Albert Schweitzer
Pets have more love and compassion in them than most humans. Robert Wagner
He who is cruel to animals becomes hard also in his dealings with men. We can judge the heart of a man by his treatment of animals. Immanuel Kant

Our Pet’s Innate Intelligence: When I started thinking of a list of lessons learned from being a pet owner, I had about 10 points. However, as I reflected on the topic and revisited stories and incidents involving pets, I was struck by how smart our pets are in showing us how to love them back and care for their well-being. They patiently wait for us to sense their needs and find ways to express them without words. Because our pets depend on us to care for them, they spend a lot of time reassuring us that friendship and vulnerability are important qualities to have. We share our trust with them and, by the same token, they are perceptive enough to know our range of emotional struggles. They know when we are hurting, so the qualities of compassion, kindness and friendship are high on their list because they feel those emotions very strongly and intuit the same in us as their owners… Come back soon for more observations on what led to me to pick 20 Pets Lessons.

❤Innate Intelligence
❤Entertainment
❤Perception
❤Vulnerability
❤Compassion
❤Kindness
❤Friendship

 

READ: Popular Macaws That Make Outstanding Pets
National Dog Day – SUNDAY 26, AUGUST
Have a happy, peaceful and productive week ahead!

 

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Positive Motivation Tip: Cherish your pets and relationships. They are gifts that keeps on giving.

Motivation Mondays is open to anyone who wishes to share a motivational quote, photo, personal challenge or a post that encourages others to start the week on an upbeat note.
Basic Instructions: Each week, I will have a motivation word to help us create a response. (See listed words for the months above/below)
Email address: You may email or share your post as a comment and I will add it to the round-up of related posts. email it to: contact(@)mirthandmotivation(.)com
Category tag: – Share your post using Motivation Mondays
Twitter hashtag: – Use this on Twitter #MotvnM
Dedicated Page: There is a dedicated page for Motivation Mondays. It has the same instructions and will include other helpful tools and a link to the round-up
Facebook Page: MotivationOnMondays Join our page and add your post and/or any motivational piece you think will be helpful to others.
Facebook Community: We have a Facebook community forum to compliment the page. It serves as another way to share uplifting posts and thoughts. Please join in and add your voice.

Badge: – I created a fun badge using PicMonkey’s free photo editing tools. You can create your own, use WordPress’ integrated tool on your blog or you are welcome to use mine. (see dedicated page)
Tag: – Motivation Mondays
Hashtag: – #MotvnM

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PHOTO CREDITS/ATTRIBUTIONS:All Photos:  Pets, Playing Pets via Pixabay
,  AND/OR  Rin Tin Tin via  Wikipedia

 

Until Next Time…
Ask. Believe. Receive. ©
Elizabeth Obih-Frank
Mirth and Motivation
Positive Kismet

They remind us to be humane and responsible

192 Comments leave one →
  1. Geraline Batarra permalink
    27/08/2018 11:52 pm

    This is such a great post. I do agree that pets or animals helping us to be more responsible and accountable in taking care of all life.

  2. Marianne Blackham permalink
    28/08/2018 1:00 am

    I love dogs. They are my favorite animals so I loved reading your blog post. And dogs definitely depend on us. It was so hard for my one dog right before she died…what with not feeling well and not being able to jump up to cuddle.

  3. acraftymix permalink
    28/08/2018 2:50 am

    Our fur babies are just like our kids here at home. It brought a tear to my eye when I read about your JB Elizabeth. It’s so sad we we lose them and they always take a big chunk of our hearts with when they go. And strangely enough there’s always more space in our hearts for another fur baby too. They are so special and make the world a better place

  4. Jordan permalink
    28/08/2018 2:54 am

    What would we do without our furbies?!? They’re truly the best.

  5. Sreekar Harinatha permalink
    28/08/2018 4:12 am

    Totally agree with you there. the pets do teach us unlimited love and affection expecting nothing but a pat in return. They also teach us humility. Great bonds are made when these ways!

  6. Autumn permalink
    28/08/2018 6:29 am

    The first pet I ever had was a hamster named Sean Cassidy. I love pets as they love you unconditionally.

  7. Joanna permalink
    28/08/2018 6:01 am

    I grew up with pets around me. I remember my first dog, he was such a wonderful loving pet. He was always there to protect me and my grandmother. Now I just got a cat, a rescued black kitten who is now the joy of the house. 🙂

  8. Czjai Reyes-Ocampo permalink
    28/08/2018 7:13 am

    If my memory serves me right, the very first pet that we had was a dog named Skylab. Not sure what breed he was, but I do recall that he had white fur with brown patches on his tail. And yes, he was named after the space station. 🙂

  9. Clarice Lao permalink
    28/08/2018 6:46 am

    I totally agree that pets are God’s gift to us and they indeed teach us a lot of life lessons especially unconditional love. I am a furmom to my 3 dogs aged 12, 5 and 1 and life has never been happier. Actually, we celebrated the national dog day with vanilla cream.

  10. Maria permalink
    28/08/2018 7:11 am

    I totally agree with everything in this article. Pets teach us all kinda of lessons and I couldn’t imagine our life without our dog.

  11. serena lissy permalink
    28/08/2018 8:15 am

    Oh my gosh I couldn’t agree more with this! Pets are so important in our lives.

  12. tanviidotcom permalink
    28/08/2018 8:39 am

    I will be honest I am not a pet person. Growing up we didn’t have any pets in our household or anyone else in my friends or family. But as long as they don’t come charging at me, I am okay with sharing the space with them 😀

  13. Ellie Plummer permalink
    28/08/2018 8:42 am

    This is such a lovely post. I think having a pet genuinely makes you feel happier as a person and as you said, there are plenty of lessons to be learned from having a pet.

  14. livetotravelsaniyapuri permalink
    28/08/2018 9:34 am

    I couldn’t agree with you more. Even I have a pet dog and indeed they teach us a lot. The best part is they love everyone equally that too without any expectations. Loved your observations.

  15. Sarah permalink
    28/08/2018 9:35 am

    My first cat was two when I was born and lived to be almost 19 years old. He taught me the true meaning of friendship and loyalty and I still miss him over fifteen years later.

  16. Monidipa permalink
    28/08/2018 10:05 am

    Pets teach us a lot of lessons, we can learn so much from them. Loved the words of Alfred A. Montapert that animals sets difficult standards for people to live up to. Great post.

  17. Kristy B permalink
    28/08/2018 10:20 am

    This is so true! We have 3 cats, 3 dogs, and 3 fish. They have taught our kiddos a great deal of responsibility.

  18. Lisa permalink
    28/08/2018 11:11 am

    This post makes me wish I had a dog! I think animals are so intelligent and more intuitive than we give them credit for. I’m grateful we have as much love and respect for them.

  19. Tiffanie Anne permalink
    28/08/2018 1:14 pm

    Aw, pets are the absolute best! I feel they teach you something new about love that no one could ever open your heart to.

  20. Nati permalink
    28/08/2018 2:21 pm

    I’m sure having a pet is a great and instructive life experience, I never had one!

  21. Sue-Tanya Mchorgh permalink
    28/08/2018 3:04 pm

    I love animals. I have two of my own and they definitely taught me a lot. Great post.

  22. Christa permalink
    28/08/2018 4:46 pm

    My dog is my favorite person to hang out with! Lol. I also think that having a dog teaches my children so much about compassion and responsibility.

  23. Amy-Lynn Vautour permalink
    28/08/2018 4:01 pm

    Animals have taught me how to be there for someone without speaking. I’m a fixer who usually tries to help people find solutions right away. Turning to animals in my own pain has taught me that just being there for someone is often enough.

  24. MELANIE EDJOURIAN permalink
    28/08/2018 4:34 pm

    I love having pets and have made sure we have them for the children. You can learn so much from having them such as responsibility. The love they give back and the way they pick up if you are upset is amazing.

  25. Nikki permalink
    28/08/2018 5:51 pm

    I’ve heard people say a few times that pets are more sympathetic and more humanlike then actual human beings. And I actually believe that is specially after reading this post. I’ve had a dog before and he was the nicest sweetest little pup ever and I miss him dearly

  26. Rhian Westbury permalink
    28/08/2018 10:17 pm

    I’ve not really had any pets other than goldfish but I know that when I get my own house I want to get cats and I know they’ll teach me plenty x

  27. mrhappywork permalink
    28/08/2018 11:14 pm

    Pets and animals in general are truly wonderful. I never understood people who said they don’t think animals have feelings or emotions. It’s so obvious they are as multi-facets and full of personality as any human! Thanks for sharing some of the great lessons we can learn from our pets.

  28. Sam permalink
    28/08/2018 10:40 pm

    Pets are so invaluable and teach us many things. I’ve had at least one pet all of my life. I can’t imagine my life without one because they truly enrich my life.

  29. HilLesha O'Nan permalink
    28/08/2018 11:15 pm

    I couldn’t agree more! Our pets are unquestioningly our best friends, confidants, and family members that can teach us valuable life lessons.

  30. Meagan permalink
    29/08/2018 12:46 am

    Having dogs in your life honestly just makes everything better. But pets in general do too! They’re such amazing little creatures that just love us and take care of us.

  31. Johanna permalink
    29/08/2018 12:53 am

    I love pets and I can say I can’t live without cats, mainly. That true affection they give is not to be found at humans.

  32. Kristine Nicole Alessandra permalink
    29/08/2018 2:06 am

    My little dog has taught me the value of unconditional love, loyalty and devotion. He may be a handful to care for, and there are times I scold him for his behavior. Nevertheless, after a minute or two, he walks towards me again and uses my foot as his pillow. That is love in every sense of the word.

  33. Catherine Santiago Jose permalink
    29/08/2018 3:27 am

    I do believe that my pets taught me a lot. She taught how to love and care and to be more responsible and accountable.

  34. Scott Gombar permalink
    29/08/2018 4:33 am

    I never thought it like this but you’re right. Our pets do teach us life lessons. We have a cat who is so even tempered even when everyone else in the house is going bonkers.

  35. Catherine shane permalink
    29/08/2018 5:40 am

    Having a pet is one of the best thing to do when you are alone, to be responsible, stress out , a play mate , a buddy and have a companion in life . Such a great Quote i love it.

  36. Sarah Kasulke permalink
    29/08/2018 6:39 am

    Yesss!!! I love love love this. I have learned so much from my animals. I never had any until my husband and I moved in together and I have learned so many of these lessons that you mentioned. Thank you for sharing!

  37. Mum mum Ma permalink
    29/08/2018 6:45 am

    I have a beautiful 5 year old pup and you are right he is my heart, my first baby. He teaches us new things every day. Pets are pure joy. I loved what you said about pet teaching us being more compassionate towards natural habitat

  38. Faneshia permalink
    29/08/2018 6:58 am

    Pets are sooo amazing! I love my two sooo much. I believe they have taught me so much. Thanks for sharing this amazing content

  39. Ramona Cruz-Peters permalink
    29/08/2018 6:42 am

    I never think about it this way, but it is true how much we can learn from pets. Especially love and gratitude.

  40. Webb of Learning permalink
    29/08/2018 7:59 am

    I have been wanting a pet dog forever, but my boyfriend is allergic. I keep telling him that I want that unconditional pet love from a dog! When you open the door and there is your buddy wagging their tail and waiting… There is nothing like it!

  41. Rose Ann Sales permalink
    29/08/2018 8:07 am

    I can’t imagine that my pets will taught me to be a loving and caring person not only for animals but also to humans.

  42. Geraline Batarra permalink
    29/08/2018 8:18 am

    I really love my pet’s a lot she helps me to learn to love and care again for someone or somebody.

  43. healthyfitcouple.com permalink
    29/08/2018 7:51 am

    Pets teach us what unconditional love is all about, I learned a lot from my dog.

  44. Gill Trotman permalink
    29/08/2018 7:58 am

    This is such a great post! My entire family loves animals and anytime we buy our children new pets they instantly become family members.

  45. Lina Andrea Szillat permalink
    29/08/2018 8:20 am

    Wow amazing insights. I didn’t know about so many benefits and good reasons of having a pet. Thank you for sharing this with us

  46. Joline permalink
    29/08/2018 9:31 am

    I still remember – and love – our childhood dog. He lived for 12 human years so yeah, he was a grandpa when he passed! It’s wonderful growing up with a dog. It teaches you unconditional love that’s for sure.

  47. Shaily permalink
    29/08/2018 9:39 am

    I’ve never had a pet but I’m planning to adopt a dog soon. I agree with you that until you have a pet in life, a part of your soul remains unawakened. You need to experience their selfless and unconditional love.

  48. JL Prince permalink
    29/08/2018 9:50 am

    Unconditional love is a HUGE one. I love animals – cats especially – and you are right that we can learn so many lessons from them. 🙂

  49. Life Menatal Health and Motivational Blog permalink
    29/08/2018 10:12 am

    There is an unconditional love when you have a pet. We had a dog his name was JOJO and I am missing him so much. This is such an inspirational post.

  50. Claire Justine permalink
    29/08/2018 10:14 am

    Aww these pet photos are adorable and so sweet. Love how the dog and cat are getting on so well 🙂

  51. sabrina barbante permalink
    29/08/2018 9:30 am

    We can learn a lot by pets, first of all, like you also say, what’s the meaning of being “human”, part of a world where we are but guests, like all the other creatures.

  52. Sigrid Says permalink
    29/08/2018 9:37 am

    I totally agree that our pets give us unconditional love. They are one of the best parts of my life — it’s just sad that they can’t be with us forever. Anyway, celebrating this National Dog Day with all the dog lovers around the world.

  53. Nina permalink
    29/08/2018 9:42 am

    I have had two very sweet dogs in my life. They were like big babies. You could talk to them and they would follow you everywhere.

  54. Nancie permalink
    29/08/2018 9:59 am

    I do remember my first pet. His name was YoYo, and he was an orange cat. He taught me a lot, and the big lesson that comes to mind is friendship.

  55. Everything On A Plate permalink
    29/08/2018 11:15 am

    We had had so many pets over the years & every single one of them has taught us many lessons we shall cherish forever

  56. annerbananer1 permalink
    29/08/2018 11:28 am

    Having a pet really is like having another member of the family. There is nothing like snuggling with your unconditional furry friend to cheer you up!

  57. justbusylovinglife permalink
    29/08/2018 11:36 am

    Pets have always been family for me! They really can brighten up your day!

  58. Sian Lifts Weights permalink
    29/08/2018 11:55 am

    This post is amazing! I have a pomeranian and believe she teaches me many things daily. She is an incredible little being!

  59. SONALI RATH permalink
    29/08/2018 12:31 pm

    I agree that pets are like kids. They need our love and support and make us good people. Nice blog.

  60. ktmommyscene permalink
    29/08/2018 1:14 pm

    Such cute pics! I love my kitties, pets are fun to take care of and it’s fun when they are affectionate back.

  61. Amanda permalink
    29/08/2018 2:41 pm

    I couldn’t agree more! We got my pup a little over a year ago after a lost pregnancy. Pets can make a HUGE difference. I don’t know what I’d do without him anymore.

  62. my wee thoughts permalink
    29/08/2018 2:52 pm

    It makes me emotional to read this. I live abroad now, faraway from my dogs. Your post missed them terribly but in a good way 🙂

  63. John Sallie permalink
    29/08/2018 3:29 pm

    Animals are indeed incredible teachers of wisdom and patience. So sorry to here about JB though. Sounds like he was pretty special.

  64. Paula Miguele permalink
    29/08/2018 3:58 pm

    This is a great blog! Pets do remind us to be human, and some pets act more humane than we do.

  65. Rose A (@mail4rosey) permalink
    29/08/2018 4:03 pm

    I’ve always been a dog person. We’re in a condo now so it would have been hard to get a dog. We got a cat. Now I’m a cat person too. 🙂

  66. Erica Ardali (@EricaEverAfter) permalink
    29/08/2018 4:24 pm

    We’ve been talking about getting a dog. This post just solidifies my desire for one.

  67. Lakesha permalink
    29/08/2018 4:41 pm

    I’ve never had a pet. I feel like they are like having another child around. 😉 However, I know people who are serious pet lovers and their pets are just like another member of the family.

  68. GiGi Eats Celebrities permalink
    29/08/2018 7:47 pm

    I will never own a pet in my life, so I may not learn these lessons from them, but I will learn them (if I have not already)!

  69. Amy permalink
    29/08/2018 7:58 pm

    Pets hold such a special place full of unconditional love. I enjoyed your blog!!

  70. urmila deven permalink
    29/08/2018 11:24 pm

    well, i till remember my first pet name he was dog and his name was Tony ….lovely post

  71. Times With Kai Mommy Blog permalink
    29/08/2018 11:35 pm

    I love animals, and this is a beautiful article. I remember my first ever dog Muttley, who ran away/got lost/died somewhere, I’m not really sure. He never came back. But he will always be my super dog.

  72. Jennifer L permalink
    29/08/2018 11:39 pm

    I’ve always had a pet growing up and they’ve enriched me and my family’s lives for the better. They truly motivate me to be better, more conscientious individuals. And their love is so pure and unconditional.

  73. Angela Ricardo Bethea permalink
    29/08/2018 11:45 pm

    My first pet is a dog when I was little. I remember my childhood spending with my dog and I told myself that she’s my bestfriend. After 8 years, she died and it makes me so sad!

  74. Nidhi Fouzdar permalink
    30/08/2018 12:20 am

    Having a pet is blessing, it teaches us so many things. They are reliable, loyal and caring. Watching them makes your half stress fade away

  75. Nikki permalink
    30/08/2018 12:28 am

    My first pet was a pit bull who I named Shadow. I got him from the pound, he was huge and scary. My first night alone with him I was absolutely terrified lol, then I later learned that he was a sweetheart.

  76. Rhea Evangelista permalink
    30/08/2018 12:28 am

    I’ve been around dogs since my childhood and being a pet owner since then. Living with a four-legged friend can bring a lot of positive energy into a household. I believe they cast the bad spirits away. I must say i became attached with my furry friends as I always wants the best for them.Sad to say, I’m living abroad now and only come home once a year, I feel guilty to see them who still remembers me and I cry every time.

  77. notquitesupermommn permalink
    30/08/2018 5:45 am

    Being a pet owner is truly a wonderful experience. I didn’t realize how wise pets are, and how much you can learn from them and about yourself until you actually adopt one.

  78. Kansas Bonanno permalink
    30/08/2018 6:04 am

    I’ve always grown up with some kind of pet and now that I have children they have pets too. I feel like kids need animals to thrive. Pets make us better people.

  79. Heather permalink
    30/08/2018 7:01 am

    Our pets are a very important part of our family. I cannot imagine life without them.

  80. fibidrese permalink
    30/08/2018 8:05 am

    I love animals. Especially my cat and my dog. We grow up together, we sleep together. I cant imagine if I live without them.

  81. 30/08/2018 9:15 am

    I really love your blog post! You always go into so much deepth with all types of information. This pet one is no different. I don’t have pets and they aren’t really my thing, but I enjoyed the read and it got me thinking.

  82. Tanya permalink
    30/08/2018 9:44 am

    I love it! Every one needs motivation! Mondays especially.
    My cats are the best, & totally agree about teaching us lessons!

  83. annerbananer1 permalink
    30/08/2018 10:41 am

    Pets really are so much smarter than we think. They can sense when we are distressed or sick and are always willing to try and make us feel better, even when there’s nothing they can really do.

  84. makeupadda1 permalink
    30/08/2018 10:51 am

    That’s a lovely post as usual. Your posts are so inspiring and motivational. Would love to have one pet someday.

  85. Cia Black permalink
    30/08/2018 11:06 am

    I remember my first pet. It was tabby cat, she had not tail. And even though she was the family pet, I knew she was really mine.

  86. renee permalink
    30/08/2018 11:27 am

    AHHH! That puppy wrapped in a blanket is so stinkin cute!!! He kept me distracted from everything else – I just want to scoop him up. He looks like a cross between a grumpy old man and ET 😉

  87. Eileen Mendoza Loya permalink
    30/08/2018 1:50 pm

    This post is an eye opener. Some people are unaware that having a pet is a way to help us understand more about life and living. They are the most loving, and most loyal friend anyone can ever have.

  88. miljance93mommysup permalink
    30/08/2018 1:55 pm

    Kids are so happy around them. They imitate them, run wild an free, and totally learn so much!!!

  89. Ana Ojha permalink
    30/08/2018 2:17 pm

    First of all, I loved all the fur babies in your collage. They all look adorable. I so agree with you that pets teach us some incredible lessons of life. I feel they are like a little human who can’t speak but they have ability to understand our emotions. I enjoyed this post!

  90. Five Little Doves permalink
    30/08/2018 2:40 pm

    I love this. I have always had pets, always dogs, and wouldn’t be without one. He has taught me lots of lessons, and my children too.

  91. Jana permalink
    30/08/2018 3:41 pm

    This is a great post about pets! I have had many over the years. They are only here for a short amount of time, but they do teach you so much! Responsibility, love, compassion.

  92. Kim Lee (@KimsCravings) permalink
    30/08/2018 3:51 pm

    Pets definitely do teach us a lot! I absolutely love my two dogs and learn from them daily!

  93. Danielle permalink
    30/08/2018 7:10 pm

    Yes!! All of this is so true. Animals I feel are the gentlest, kindest creatures out there.

  94. Sandy Brandon permalink
    30/08/2018 7:19 pm

    I love your Motivation Mondays theme! The subject this week is near and dear to my heart. Our first family pet was a poodle mix. His name was “Simba”, which means lion. I loved that dog dearly and am certain that is where my love for fur babies was born. My husband has told me for years that I always bring home strays, both the furry kind and 2 legged. Aww such is life. Thank you for such an amazing read today! I will be seriously considering joining in on the fun of the Motivation Monday challenge!!

  95. Aditi permalink
    30/08/2018 8:48 pm

    You are absolutely right that pets teach us more than we teach them. Their love is truly unconditional. In a robotic world that we live in today, what would we do without pets?! Cheers!! 🙂

  96. sincerelymissj permalink
    30/08/2018 9:17 pm

    To be honest I have never had a pet of my own but kind of had a dog in university which belonged to my room-mate. That dog taught me a lot including patience and love

  97. Stuart Brazell permalink
    30/08/2018 9:41 pm

    This just brought back so many memories of my first cat China. She was a Siamese!

  98. Stacy Liz permalink
    31/08/2018 12:30 am

    I grew up with animals and love them so much. Pets provide so much more to us than we think and this is a good reminder! I didn’t know it was National Dog Day recently 🙁

  99. Mahima permalink
    31/08/2018 3:09 am

    I truly agree with the fact that animals teach us responsibility, unconditional love and compassion. Over and above they teach us humility and respect for all beings.

  100. Pujarini permalink
    31/08/2018 3:11 am

    What a delightful read! My first pet was a dog as well. Having pets definitely made us more responsible and loving towards animals. Pets give back such unconditional love that it’s difficult to imagine a life without them.

  101. Jeannine permalink
    31/08/2018 5:00 am

    I love those motivation so inspiring ,the message is great the fact are real and the positive thoughts get inside with you..

  102. twinspirational permalink
    31/08/2018 5:43 am

    We love pets too. We never had them growing up, but wish we did.

  103. Kala Allen permalink
    31/08/2018 6:50 am

    This reminds me of my pet cat named Bitsy. She’s so adorable and cute. I miss her so much as I have been really far away from home for awhile. Thanks for sharing this post.

  104. Lyosha Varezhkina permalink
    31/08/2018 9:17 am

    I couldn’t agree more. Pets are so precious, I always try to keep up with my furry boys

  105. anvita permalink
    31/08/2018 8:56 am

    My first Pet was a parrot and I still have fond memories as a child of how much my parrot meant to me.

  106. Szebastian Onne #INSPIRE permalink
    31/08/2018 9:45 am

    You know each and every one of them is so true. I am going to share this on ACPawsRescue social media – may I re-blog it (of course with due credits) on their blog?

  107. chichi permalink
    31/08/2018 11:15 am

    I am not an animal lover but am slowly warming up to our house dog! Agree they do teach us so much about life specially selflessness!

  108. Shane Prather permalink
    31/08/2018 11:18 am

    Aw, we love out pups! True members of the family and show so much love when you’re down and need a lift!

  109. Indu permalink
    31/08/2018 10:53 am

    Pets indeed are the embodiment of unconditional love.I have no pet at home but I have observed friends sharing strong bonds with their pets.

  110. Laila permalink
    31/08/2018 12:15 pm

    I remember my very first pet and every single pet since! There’s something so amazing about the unconditional love they give you. My kitty has this cute good morning routine with me and I fell so much love from her!

  111. MELANIE EDJOURIAN permalink
    31/08/2018 12:25 pm

    I do love having pets. They are great to cuddle and talk to when you need to just talk and they don’t judge unlike people. I’m glad we got pets for our children to enjoy too.

  112. Mariànne permalink
    31/08/2018 2:12 pm

    Animals are so reliable and show a lot of kindness. It so silly to think that when I was growing up, people around me told me that animals have no intelligence, an absolute lie.

  113. Brandy Eastman Tanner permalink
    31/08/2018 4:41 pm

    Pets really do teach us so many awesome life lessons. I am glad that you shared this post, it is such a nice reminder of how beneficial pets are to our world and life.

  114. janna permalink
    31/08/2018 4:04 pm

    I had a Jack Russell too, great dog but very high energy! and liked to bark a little too much! Now I have a miniature dachshund, who’s almost 14 and a total grouch but I love him. Feeding him is my son’s daily chore – trying to teach him responsibility which doesn’t always work. Pets are also good from a young age bc they help to lower allergies in children bc of the early exposure and not to be fearful of animals and to better know how to engage with them in a safe way. pets are the best!

  115. Food Opium permalink
    31/08/2018 5:52 pm

    Nice post, you have rightly said pets/animals are full of love and do not see you through any color, they give you unconditional affection and love and be there when required with out asking anything in return.

  116. Hailey permalink
    31/08/2018 7:44 pm

    Aw this was such a cute post! I have had pets all my life an they have taught me so much. Unconditional love was the best though 🙂

  117. Jenn permalink
    31/08/2018 8:44 pm

    Pets oh how I love and adore them. The ones that take your stress away!

  118. Melissa permalink
    01/09/2018 5:26 am

    We used to have a dog, but I felt it was too much while having little kids. When we are done having babies, we will definitely be looking into getting another pet!

  119. Sarah Bean permalink
    01/09/2018 11:03 am

    So true. Pets really are more “humane” than humans! Especially dogs.

  120. faithhopelove627 permalink
    01/09/2018 6:04 pm

    Not only do I remember my first pet, but I remember all my pets. Pets become apart of the family. Pets really do teach us a lot of life lessons for sure.

  121. ajournalofstories permalink
    01/09/2018 7:57 pm

    I love this! Above all, they do remind us to be humane and responsible. They’re not a toy, their a life that you are responsible for.

  122. Nicol Wong (@yuk_lui) permalink
    01/09/2018 10:17 pm

    that quote by Bruce cameron made me want to tear up. it amazing how not only we can teach pets but they can teach us too.

  123. toastycritic permalink
    02/09/2018 10:06 am

    I know that we anthropomorphize our pets, but they do teach us a bit what it means to be human. And what it means to be human when caring for others. And they definitely teach responsibility of caring for others.

  124. fashionandstylepolice permalink
    02/09/2018 1:09 pm

    I have never had a pet before but I can see how they teach us all these things. Love the message here.

  125. Serin Quinn permalink
    03/09/2018 6:30 am

    Such a great article, pets really are the best companions in life! Love all the pictures you chose!

  126. twinspirational permalink
    03/09/2018 10:41 am

    These are the most adorable pets. We always wanted a pet dog growing up.

  127. DrKLeeBanks permalink
    03/09/2018 1:01 pm

    LOVE this post! Hubby and I currently have 3 dogs and 8 cats – all rescues – and have previously had 1 other dog and 2 cats who left us way too soon. If we had a bigger home, more land away from the road, and the money to finance it, we would love to open a rescue facility primarily for dogs and cats. I can’t imagine our lives without our fur babies!That Montapert quote is one of my favorite ones about animals!

  128. Geraline Batarra permalink
    03/09/2018 10:34 pm

    I remembered my first pet it was a chihuahua and she is really so cute and lovable. She died when my mom was in the hospital, I am so sad but happy because my mom getting better a day after she died.

  129. Rhian Westbury permalink
    03/09/2018 10:48 pm

    I’ve never really had a lot of pets when I was growing up. My first pets were just goldfish so I don’t have many memories of them x

  130. Razena permalink
    03/09/2018 9:56 pm

    The first family pet I had contact with was my uncle’s dog Raja who was my constant companion when I was a baby and my parents lived in his house. A few years after we moved out my father took us back to my uncle’s home and Raja still remembered me.

  131. Karla permalink
    03/09/2018 11:18 pm

    Thank you for this article. This will help me to motivate more in life.

  132. Rosey permalink
    04/09/2018 2:15 am

    Our cat hits the window too when it’s time for us to come home. She’s got our pattern down now. 🙂 We love having a pet!

  133. Pazlo permalink
    04/09/2018 7:37 am

    Animals don’t really need us at all. I mean, in the real world. Of course if they’re subjected to the artificial and manufactured world of humans, they will be imprisoned and helpless. Unable to eat or drink or pursue their liberty, locked in a house, penned in a yard.
    But if it weren’t for all those awful human things; walls, doors, fences, animals would live just fine on their own.
    It is the fact that they continue to come through the door, into the fences, behind the walls…just to be with us…that’s the magic of loved ones of other species.

    Seek peace,

    Paz

  134. Azlin Bloor permalink
    04/09/2018 11:36 am

    This is a wonderful post. I never ever thought about pets teaching us values, but it is absolutely true! Just like children.

  135. Sydney | A World in Reach permalink
    04/09/2018 5:47 pm

    Pets truly are the best! I currently have two dogs and they always pick me up when I’ve had a rough day 🙂

  136. muffinsfortuffins permalink
    04/09/2018 7:18 pm

    I loved my first dog as a child. This is a great post to reflect what our animals mean to us. Thanks for posting!

  137. Lisa Rios permalink
    05/09/2018 8:17 am

    I definitely think my cat has taught me a lot about responsibility but also unconditional love. We love our pets~

  138. Khushboo Motihar permalink
    05/09/2018 6:58 pm

    I have never had a pet before but I take care of a few stray dogs. They have taught me how to love unconditionally 🙂

  139. Justyna E Butler permalink
    08/09/2018 11:42 am

    Absolutely agree with your share! We love our fur babies! And for all my couples adventures as a wedding and adventure Elopement Photographer …I absolutely love when they brong their puppies to celebrate their bog day!!!

  140. dearmummyblog permalink
    10/09/2018 3:17 am

    My folks want to get me a pet to help teach me the importance of being responsible and help me to be caring for something other than myself. It’s also important to experience loss and the recovery process once an animal dies x

  141. Megan permalink
    10/09/2018 6:19 am

    This is so beautiful and important… our pets are such a part of us and we don’t even realize it until often it’s too late.

  142. Jasmine - LoveLifeLaughMotherhood permalink
    10/09/2018 7:30 am

    i love this – too many people treat pets as an accessory. they are family and you an learn so much from loving and caring for them.

  143. Faneshia permalink
    10/09/2018 3:46 pm

    I have pets and I love them dearly! They have taught me so much. Many of which you mentioned here.

  144. Rose Ann Sales permalink
    10/09/2018 5:29 pm

    I don’t own any pets but I know and I believe that pets is teaching us to be responsible, to be caring and loving person. Why? Because I witnessed that from my friends, her pets help her a lot to be better.

  145. Dana Brillante-Peller permalink
    10/09/2018 6:38 pm

    I’ve always loved the loyalty I receive from our girl. She’s the sweetest pet we’ve ever had, and she continues to amaze me by how much she listens to us and is willing to be there for us through the tough times.

  146. Sreekar Harinatha permalink
    11/09/2018 12:00 am

    I agree. I do have a pet dog; Ashley and its the most honest and intelligent I have met. They do sometimes teach us so many things.

  147. A Side Of Crunchy permalink
    11/09/2018 7:39 am

    Dogs are so amazing. We have three and they always know when you need a little more love.

  148. Sayanti permalink
    13/09/2018 2:56 am

    I do not have a pet because I am scared of animals but I know that they are compassionate, kind and loyal. And yes they are every bit capable of teaching us life lessons for sure 🙂

  149. Mommy Sigrid permalink
    14/09/2018 8:12 am

    I honestly don’t like keeping animals. Well, I live animals, it;s just that I don’t want to take care of them. But great lessons! 😀

  150. Five Little Doves permalink
    15/09/2018 9:32 am

    I love this. I have always had dogs my whole life and our dog has taught us so much. Losing not first dog was a huge lesson in life, it changed me a lot.

  151. MELANIE EDJOURIAN permalink
    18/09/2018 12:45 am

    I think pets are great and we should all experience owning one at least once in our lives. They can teach so many things including unconditional love and patience and I’m glad to have pets for my children.

  152. Alexandra permalink
    04/10/2018 11:51 pm

    What a beautiful post. I will never forget my first pet – he taught me responsibility and Brought such love and companionship 🙂 thank you so much for sharing!

  153. Cătălina-Iuliana Nini permalink
    08/10/2018 8:09 am

    Gratitude and curiosity. Definitely 2 great qualities we sometimes forget. Having pets is having an extended family for sure.

  154. THE JOYOUS LIVING permalink
    16/10/2018 11:11 am

    oh my gosh! the pic of the pug in a blanket is so cute!! 😀

  155. luciwest permalink
    17/12/2018 8:05 am

    I am so grateful for all I have learned from and by having animals. Going to shower my Whiskey Dog with attention now.

  156. Angela permalink
    31/08/2019 6:09 am

    I think it’s the total trust that pets will put in their human that is so endearing. They share love freely and they can definitely teach us a thing or two about empathy and kindness.

  157. Emily Fata permalink
    02/09/2019 5:26 am

    Oh my goodness, this couldn’t be more true. I’ve learned such great lessons from my dog, especially about love, kindness, and forgiveness. Animals truly are the purest of creatures.

  158. Bree L. permalink
    02/09/2019 5:41 am

    Pets really teach us so much! I have learned so much from my furry friends!

  159. Steph permalink
    02/09/2019 9:41 pm

    Am glad there are a lot of people with hearts for animals,we should treat animals the way we want to be treated. It breaks my heart that some people mistreat these poor things.LET’S TREAT OUR PETS LIKE OUR KIDS.

  160. Kuntala Banerjee Bhattacharya permalink
    02/09/2019 10:06 pm

    Excellent article. So much to learn from pets. They really change our world. I had a litlittle birdie and used to speak with her everyday. She was my heart. One day she left us, it was so painful.

  161. TweenselMom (@TweenselMom) permalink
    03/09/2019 1:43 pm

    Aww, this is my favorite post. I guess pets are there to teach us a thing or two, but first of all, they teach us how to be cute without putting much effort on it.

  162. Lasonia | Lasonia B Graves permalink
    03/09/2019 5:22 pm

    We really miss our fur baby. We are seriously considering getting another one.

  163. makeupadda1 permalink
    04/09/2019 5:44 am

    Thats a very beautiful motivated post. I love reading your post they are so good.

  164. Bindu Thomas permalink
    05/09/2019 9:27 pm

    If you need true, non-judgmental love you just need to cuddle upto your pet. The only other place where you can get that is perhaps with babies.

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