How Many of Us?

How many of us have been ridiculed by non pet lovers?  How many of us have been told, "They are just dogs," or "It's just a cat or horse or fill in blank."  How many of us have went home after being chided about our love for our pets and held them tight knowing their value is worth more than money?  How many people just don't get it and feel the need to express their dismay at this strange relationship between human and animal?

I think we have all been there at some point.  I read two post on the same theme.  Buddy Wilson's Ponderings and Jet's Furkid Palace.  Buddy Wilson's Ponderings who is sacrificing everything for her dogs, some who are fosters that would have been put down otherwise, has been bombarded by negative comments by others who feel what she is doing with her dogs and the number of dogs she has is a waste of time.  Jet's Furkid Palace stated something similar how others don't "get it," referring to her relationship and bond she has with her dogs and why.  We have received many of those same comments (How much is that doggie? and Throw Away Dogs)with those shaking their heads about the time, money and energy we waste on our pets.  How many of us have gotten those looks that state we are crazy for our investment in these furry little creatures and devote a blog to them?  Yes, we are certifiably insane and proud of it!!

I could devote an entire post of all the reasons why we are dog, cat and animal crazy in our house, but they still wouldn't "get it."  Unless you've experienced the unconditional love of an animal and form that everlasting bond that comes through love, training and emotional healing and teaching you aren't going to "get it."  That is the magic of the these pet blogs, because we get it.

Just because my husband and I decided not to have children, doesn't mean I go around berating everyone that does.  I'm sure we all know people who we don't understand the way they live and why, but I don't feel the need to let my ignorance be known by butting into their lives with such rude comments and remarks. We all need life, love and purpose so please give us some respect especially when you obviously don't know what you are talking about.   

For those that feel the need to express their opinions at the cost of others for things you can't understand, here's a monumental saying I learned when I was in third grade:  "If you can't say something nice, then don't say anything at all."  Try it out, you might help make some one's day.