The Unconditional Love of a Dog: Lessons in Presence, Loss, and Living to the Fullest
90-Day Challenge: Day 9 of 90
I never really understood the hype about dogs. Why were people so obsessed with them? What was the big deal? Then, I got a dog of my own, and everything changed.
My furry family consists of two French Bulldogs: Emma, a brindle girl we welcomed in August 2021, and Flint, a piebald boy who joined us in January 2024. But there's a missing piece in this picture, a furry friend who left paw prints on my heart: Campeon.
Campeon was our red fawn French Bulldog, our pandemic companion. He came into our lives during a time of global uncertainty and anxiety, and he had this incredible ability to absorb all the stress and worry, just by being there. He was a constant source of comfort and joy.
Then, in September 2023, tragedy struck. I was on a trip to Europe – Switzerland, France, and the UK – when I received a devastating phone call at dawn. Campeon had passed away at the pet hotel due to negligence. Heatstroke. My heart shattered.
I'll never forget the pain of that moment. The world felt like it stopped spinning. I immediately booked a flight back home, canceling the rest of my 2-week trip. Nothing else mattered. I sobbed the entire flight, heartbroken and devastated.
Campeon taught me so much about unconditional love and the power of presence. He didn't need words to express his affection. The way he looked at me, stayed by my side, and patiently waited for me, without a single complaint, spoke volumes. He made me feel needed, important, and truly loved. It's a feeling that's hard to describe, a depth of connection that few humans can replicate. It's no wonder they say dogs are a man's best friend.
Life is Fleeting
Now, I cherish every moment with Emma, Flint, and Dublin (my British Shorthair cat). But Campeon's loss left a void, a reminder that life is precious and fleeting. Sometimes, the fear of experiencing that kind of pain again creeps in. But then I remember Campeon's lessons. He taught me to live in the moment, to appreciate the small things, and to love without reservation.
Living to the Fullest
Life is a gift, and we never know how much time we have. Let's make the most of every second. Let's be present in our interactions, appreciate the people (and pets!) in our lives, and love like there's no tomorrow. Let's live with passion, purpose, and a deep appreciation for the fleeting beauty of life.
In memory of Campeon, my pandemic companion and furry friend. ❤️
What are you most grateful for today? Share your thoughts and reflections in the comments below.
Peace.✌️ Love you all.😍
I share the feelings you have with your pets. And I personally admit right now that the moment I started to take care of my own pet male Rottweiler that was the time I realized the benefit of having a very loyal friend like him. Pets that are personally taken cared of provide comfort, camaraderie, and unconditional love. Pet dogs are our source of a different kind of happiness, kisses, cuddles, and laughs.