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Walking the Dog

1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic (by 2 people)   Your rating: 1 - I can do better 2 - Jury's out 3 - Pretty darn good 4 - Splendiferous 5 - Awesometastic

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Walking The Dog

 

Dogs can teach us all a lot about the rhythms of life if we just pay a little attention. Whether you live with a hero dog like Lassie or a mutt only a mother could love, listen up!

The Top Ten Reasons To Walk The Dog(s) 

Or ... Blowing The Stink Off

1. As Jersey and Styx (my dogs) say, "It blows the stink off."
My dogs mean this a little more literally than I do. But I do notice that as I allow daily worry and concerns to creep in, I begin to smell.

2. It keeps you putting one foot in front of the other.
If it's true that movement creates momentum and momentum creates flow, then putting one foot in front of the other, no matter how mindless, is literally the first step in movement and towards flow.

3. It's a moving meditation.
While my body is doing all the work, my mind is allowed to wander in directions it needs to go and finally become silent.

4. It's cheaper than therapy.
Dogs are great listeners.

5. Your body will look and feel better.
If an improved cardiovascular system isn't enough incentive, think about your legs and butt in shorts and swim suits.

6. You'll notice things only your dog can point out.
Jersey and Styx have hearing and a sense of smell that are far superior to mine. I've come to rely on them to point out wildlife I would have normally walked right by.

7. Ice Cream!
The hot fudge sundae you'll now be tempted to stop for seems little more justified.

8. Without movement and fresh air, dogs, like the rest of us, can become a little testy.
A daily walk can save you repair bills on furniture, boots and shoes, and anything else you dog uses to cure her winter blues. Jersey's personal favorite is playing "keep away" with my $200 hiking boots.

9. If you've been walking your dog regularly, yard clean up is a lot easier.
Those little and not so little surprise "bombs" you hit with the lawnmower are not fun.

10. By developing a strong bond with your dog, she may one day share the importance of turning around three times before lying down.

The Heart of Dogs 

From Those Who Know

Merle's Door: Lessons from a Freethinking Dog

Amazon Price: $16.50 (as of 11/21/2008) Buy Now

Walking My Dog Jane: From Valdez to Prudhoe Bay Along the Trans-Alaska Pipeline

Amazon Price: $16.61 (as of 11/21/2008) Buy Now

On Talking Terms With Dogs: Calming Signals

Amazon Price: $10.36 (as of 11/21/2008) Buy Now

Hiking with Dogs, 2nd: Becoming a Wilderness-Wise Dog Owner (Kestrel)

Amazon Price: $8.95 (as of 11/21/2008) Buy Now

More of Deb on the Web 

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Portage Transition Coaching where you can sign up for my monthly e-newsletter.
Deb's Blog
Musings from a wondering woman.
My Favorite Pet Products
Treat yourself, and you pets, very, very well. Exclusive quality products from Market America.

Pampered or On Duty? 

Is your dog a member of your family, taking his or her meals with you, securing a place of honor on your bed or couch, and getting a new wardrobe each season?

Or is your dog a working dog, with his own environment and set of chores, perhaps a bed in the barn or kennel, and tin bowl for kibbles and scraps?

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Please Share 

Jersey and Styx (Boo Boo) and I would love to hear more from you

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DebMartin

About DebMartin

Most of my inspirations come from my wanderings though Northern Michigan and Ontario when I am attached to only the moment I am in during my travels. I have discovered more in the woods and on the water than I have in all my years of formal education. Sometimes my insights last only a moment and the next minute I'm contradicting myself. Some of my insights I'm sure will last a lifetime. But it can never be my place to tell you what you must do, what is wrong, or why. My ramblings here are just an invitation for you to take a look for yourself and enjoy. Please take what suits you, discard what does not. I won't mind a bit.

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