Thanks to Gary Strack, we are reminded what a powerful effect our pets can have on our lives. About two years ago, Strack decided he wanted a dog and a new life adventure began. He had not owned a dog for more than 30 years, but with help from Oconee Regional Humane Society and Bonnie Stewart, he discovered McDougal, a 1-year old, mixed-breed terrier. Strack’s wife went to meet him at an adoption event, and when Gary arrived home that afternoon, “McDougal was in our kitchen and our home has not been the same. Since Dougal arrived, I have learned many important lessons and been reminded of many more. I could create a long list of those lessons but I will limit it a few.”

1. Dougal needs to love and to be loved. I believe God wants the same for me. Dougal is my reminder to love my wife, family and friends and to allow them to love me, even if I don’t deserve it.

2. Dougal has an enthusiasm for life, and his happiness shows every time he sees me. That is a constant reminder for me to demonstrate my enthusiasm for my family and friends and not take them for granted when I greet them.

3. Dougal lives in the moment with full attention and presence. When he is eating a bone, he is 100 percent focused. When he is sniffing his environment, he is in the moment. When he is sitting on the porch with me, I am his focus. When he is doing a trick, playing or being challenged, he is totally in the moment. Whatever he is doing, it is with his total presence and being. How foolish of me to think I can watch TV, read a book, have a conversation with my wife and worry about my IRA and the speech I have to give tomorrow all at the same time. Dougal is my constant reminder to try to live in the present with whoever I am with and give them my full attention.

4. Dougal knows the importance of good nutrition, exercise and even more important the ability to rest. When he is tired he goes to sleep. He reminds me of the importance of slowing down and being patient.

5. Dougal appears to thoroughly enjoy life. He takes being a dog very seriously but takes himself lightly. He does something every day that evokes laughter in my life. Laughter is great for the immune system. He has reminded me to take my responsibilities seriously but to laugh at myself. When I look at Dougal I am reminded how important it is to have reverence for all of God’s creations.

6. I have also been reminded of what Eisenhower’s said, “It is not the size of the dog in the fight that is important, but the size of the fight in the dog.” Dougal is fearless. He serves as a reminder of the importance of courage in my life. I am reminded to be courageous and to do and or say those things that need to be said or done the most.

Well, my list of lessons learned could go on and on, but I think you understand how Dougal has helped me. I love Dougal and I know that through the work that you do, you are helping other families experience the same joys that I have with my Dougal. From someone who has experienced your love, keep up your wonderful work.