My Pandemic Puppy

Posted by John Livesay in blog0 comments

During the pandemic, many people felt isolated and got a dog to help keep them company. Over 93% of people who adopted a dog said it helped their mental health.

I had just moved from LA to Austin on March 1, 2020, just a few weeks before everything shut down. I drove with my sister Barbara and my King Charles Cavalier Spaniel Pepe. He is a miniature version of the breed, and I always ask the groomer to give him a “puppy cut,” so everyone always thinks he is a puppy.

Barbara offered to drive with me, which made for a fun road trip, and we stayed at dog-friendly hotels along the way.

Little did I know that after my sister flew back to her home, I would be spending a lot of alone time with my dog Pepe.

Here are the ABCs that Pepe taught me about on how to handle life’s disruptions:

A: Always Be Kind and Affection

Pepe defaults to kindness when he meets new people on a walk. I like to say he has never had a bad day, and I’m doing everything in my power to keep it that way

Pepe shows me that affection doesn’t not have to be earned. It is available 24/7. He is full of licks and cuddles. 

B: Be Present (and Belly Rubs!)

Pepe is always in the now. Once, I stepped on his tail by mistake, and he quickly forgot about it. He does not hold grudges.

He loves belly rubs any time but especially in the morning. He rolls over on his back and stretches his paws as I rub his belly. It is a great way for both of us to start our day.

C: Compassion, Comfort, and Connection

Pepe is my ideal companion full of compassion and comfort. He is easily entertained when we play fetch, whether it is in the house or outside.

Connection can be formed in simple playful activities that can include others, too. When friends are over, we take turns tossing his ball for him to retrieve.

The next time life feels overwhelming or frustrating, I suggest you revisit the simple ABCs of life that Pepe has taught me to get yourself recentered. There is always time for a belly rub or a game of fetch to get your mind focused on what really matters.