The Truth About Owning a Dog: Why Dogs Cannot be Owned
So what do you say instead of “I’m a dog owner “ ?
Dogs are wonderful creatures that bring so much joy and companionship into our lives. They have done for thousands of years, and have evolved to become our closest animal friends. However, despite the fact that many people refer to themselves as dog owners, it’s important to recognize that we can’t truly “own” a dog. Not in my humble opinion anyways.
As a devoted human companion to a furry four-legged friend, I often find myself struggling with the language we use to describe our relationship. While many people refer to themselves as “dog owners,” I have always felt that this term does not accurately reflect the bond that I shared with my canine companion. It’s important to recognize that we can’t truly “own” a dog.
“When you love your dog as a friend, you create a bond that transcends the limits of time, space, and even death.”
Martin Callow – 29/4/23
Dogs are amazing creatures that have been a part of our lives for centuries. They are not mere possessions or property, but rather, living beings that require love, care, and protection. Despite this, many people still think of dogs as things they can own.
Dogs are living beings with their own unique personalities, emotions, and needs. They are not objects that can be bought, sold, or traded like property. When you bring a dog into your life, you are committing to being their caretaker and providing for them for the rest of their life. Recognizing that dogs are not property is the first step in understanding why they cannot be owned.
This all sounds a bit over the top and clinical from a dog lover. But I can assure you that I have never felt such love for a human as I did and still do for Molly. I think of her every day and my love will never die or fade.
The Responsibility of Love, Care, and Protection should just be an instinct , it is your responsibility to provide your companion with the love, care, and protection they need. This includes making sure they have access to proper nutrition, exercise, and medical care, as well as social interaction and mental stimulation. Dogs give us unconditional love and loyalty, and it’s our duty to return the favour by providing them with a safe and nurturing environment. Building a strong bond with your dog is crucial to their well-being and happiness. I was crucial to my own wellbeing and happiness. Dogs are social creatures and need interaction to thrive. Spend time playing, cuddling, and communicating with your dog to build a strong bond that will last a lifetime. A strong bond will also help your dog feel secure and loved, which is essential for their mental and emotional health. The importance of recognizing dogs as living, sentient beings is crucial to understanding why they cannot be owned. Dogs have their own needs and desires, and it is our responsibility to meet those needs. We must treat them with kindness, respect, and compassion, just as we would with any other living being.
I do say “your dog” and “My dog” quite a bit, hopefully you realise that I have to say something and Molly could have thought of me as her “Human” 🙂
The joy of sharing your life with a dog, despite the responsibility that comes with a dog, is immeasurable.
The joy and companionship they bring into our lives make it all worth it. Dogs offer us unconditional love, loyalty, and friendship. They are always there for us, through good times and bad. Sharing your life with a dog is a privilege that should not be taken lightly.
You truly trust someone when you leave your dog with them while you’re not there. I could not leave Molly with many people, they just weren’t responsible enough , I left her with my parents a couple of times for hospital appointments I attended. But Molly wasn’t happy with that at all and having to bang on the door at 5 30 am because they forgot I was bringing her around really upset me, given id text the night before with a reminder. I was more worried about Molly than myself. I had to have surgery one time but after that I actually left her alone at home for follow ups as I knew she and I would be happier. I had to do that 3 times for about 15 to 20 hours. I put paper down and told her to pee anywhere, on the paper was a bonus , that’s all. She never peed once. Just slept the whole time.
I made cards and laminated them. They read “I’m Home Alone” It had a picture of Molly on, address and other details, with some contact numbers etc. I had them in my wallet and every pocket I had. There was bowls and bowls of water and food laid out. I knew if I died or was unconscious, she would be found very quickly and helped. I was never in doubt of that. You can’t own a dog, not really.
I carried one of those at all times in my wallet, whenever I left the house. If Molly was at home alone. Molly didnt want to come to work all the time, sometimes she decided to stay home.
Living alone and as a loner, I couldn’t take any chances. Those cards were also in my work van as well as on my person.
Molly died in 2020. I’m heart broken. I realise this blog isn’t very good. Its my 1st ever blog. I think I’m trying to preserve Molly, immortalise her perhaps.
Just getting this far has been difficult as I get so upset.