Alternative Endings

This is actually the original conclusion to an article that was written for the Seattle Times. Read the article (and the lead-in to this page) here.

With these perspectives on "dressing" our pets, what part of this really matters? Is it unkind to put a bonnet on kitty and let a child parade him around in a doll stroller? Is it problematic if that Chihuahua wears a sweater as she rides in the handlebar basket of an old woman's mobility scooter - tooling through the neighborhood? Some may think that these are silly or demeaning situations, but I believe that there is more to be seen than meets the eye.

When I pick up my glasses these days and look more closely at the clothing people use to adorn their pets, I see a lot more than I did before. What I see now is the caring that has developed between people and their pets; that amazing fabric woven of trust and interdependence that we craved when we started down this pet-ownership path to begin with. The clothing is just a reflection of the relationships that we are fortunate enough to enjoy.

That brings to mind some very special things that just a few animals wear. These are the accessories that identify them in their role as service dogs. Look closely and you can see the results of months and months of training and preparation for both the animals and their people. The relationships are woven from the threads of two different species, and the result is a supportive fabric much stronger than its component parts.

While it is fascinating to watching a dedicated service dog at work, it is even more unusual to get a glimpse of this relationship - this fabric - taking shape while still on the Weaver's loom. Eva is a bright, six-year old girl living in Bend, Oregon. Her body is affected by cerebral palsy. She and her family have just started their search for an assistance dog that will help her both physically and emotionally, and warn of impending seizures. Their loom is being strung, and the warp and weave laid out to be carefully woven over the next several months in preparation for an incredible lifetime partnership. This determined little girl is going to be a fabulous partner for one very lucky dog. Take a look at some inspiring pictures of her first week at Dogwood Therapy Services, and follow their ongoing adventures at LittleMustardseed.org

Be careful. It will melt your heart; and fog your glasses.

Sheryl McDevitt, DVM