Animals and their Amazing Adversity Lessons

by Barbara Techel
Joyful Paws

Trying to picture in my minds eye, Frankie, my dachshund moving with wheels did not compute. I immediately attached my human emotions to the situation. Without the use of her hind legs I believed Frankie would be depressed, and would not want to go on with life. I could not have been more wrong. This is a case where I am happy to shout at the top of my lungs, "I was wrong!"

A recent story from MSNBC stirred within me deep emotions of the day I almost made a fatal mistake. My first initial thought when I was told Frankie might be permanently paralyzed is that I would have to put her down. The MSNBC story talks about how historically when an animal becomes severely injured we put that animal to sleep. We believe they can't possibly overcome adversity. That thought is changing and changing rapidly.

As Frankie began to heal I realized she was still Frankie. She adapted almost immediately to realizing she had to move differently than before. She didn't wake up in the morning and feel sorry for herself. She accepted, adjusted and lived in the moment. I, being the human, had to adjust my thought process and realize Frankie was still the same dog. I had to let her just be a dog. It was not easy at first. I wanted to do all I could to help her regain the use of her back legs. I thought this would make her complete and happy as before. That is not to say we shouldn't do what we can for our animals. But, there comes a point where acceptance has to settle in.

The MSNBC story talks about a dachshund who escaped his home, was hit by a car, severed a sciatic nerve, crushed his pelvis, and broke his leg, along with many other injuries. Previous to this injury he was a therapy dog. The owner knew how much the little dog loved to run and thought he never would run again. After amputation, the owner took her dog swimming, which helped strengthen his legs. He now gets along on three legs and continues his therapy work. Because of his situation he now makes a difference in the lives of patients who have had their legs amputated. Dogs bring out a loving, fighting spirit in humans and patients are responding with belief in themselves that they too, can overcome adversity.

I don't dwell on almost making the mistake of putting Frankie to sleep that day, but instead focus on moving forward and making a difference. Sharing her story with others will hopefully help others when faced with a devastating pet injury. Take your emotions out of the equation if you can. Animals don't give thought to pity, sorrow or what lies ahead. They accept what is and in turn, teach us no matter what, life is worth living.

Article submitted Thursday, May 29, 2008 & read 84 times.

Leave your comments through Blogz:

» left by Teresa Ortiz (3 years 254 days ago.)

Hi Barbara, I just knew God created dogs for many reasons, this is just another God example of why. We have a lot to learn from our doggies :-) I'm so glad you are sharing this story, I know it will encourage others. Many blessings to you! I look forward to reading more from you.
Respond to this comment

» left by Anonymous (3 years 254 days ago.)
Dear Teresa, Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback! I sincerely appreciate that. I have no doubt God gave us dogs to truly teach us about compassion and unconditional love. Thank you again! Barbara

Respond to this comment

10-2-2-1-0-ADSO

Most Recent