Dog Life Lessons-The Art of Letting Go

You all know the phrase, "Like a dog with a bone."  How a dog is when given something precious will not let go of it and usually has to be taught to let go.  And it is tough lesson for a dog to learn because they just want to hang on and keep it forever.

One of Chance's favorite games is jumping and chasing for a toy that is on a rope or line.  He also enjoys this with the water hose when I swing it around.  He is quite good at it and loves testing his skills.  Chance learned early that in order for the game to continue, he had to let go of the toy or hose so that I can swing it around again.  He learned how to have fun by letting go and not holding on.  Sure we play some tug-a-war but he knows that in order to get the game moving again, he has to let go of the toy.  Something I didn't teach him, at least with any command or signal, he seemed to figure it out on his own.

I wish it were that easy.

I've been trying to let go of something I've held onto for a long time.  I am like that dog with a bone, hanging on with that clamping grip.  I have a long ways to get to Chance's level but every day we play together he reminds me that it can be done.  Little by little I've been able to unclench my fist and begin to let go.  Thankfully Chance is quite patient with me and is more than willing to show how he does it!  He knows the secret.  When you let go, that's when you really get to play!



How is your dog at letting go of things?  How are you?

A Summer Splash!

While most of us are bundled up trying to keep our butts from freezing off.  Why not turn up the heat for a few minutes, get yourself a cool one and feel the warmth of Chance and I playing with water hose on a hot summer day.  

Don't worry.  Those days are coming back. 

The countdown is on!

(or watch on YouTube)

Feel better?

hopefully that will hold you over for a few more months.  

And you can visit this video as many times as you need until we are all out enjoying the water hose with our dogs again.  ☺