Dog’s world

I realized yesterday that I am my dog’s entire world.

This thought made me a little sad.

Ace gets out if I choose to invite him. But I leave whenever I want, with or without my dog.

Ace knows and learns what I teach. His behavior depends on me. His energy depends on me. Even his ability to make choices depends on me.

Ace eats the food I choose to buy. He eats when I decide to feed him, and therefore his weight is controlled by me. He gets vet care if I decide to pay for it, and he goes for walks only with me.

Ace runs off leash, goes hiking and swimming on my terms. He goes in his kennel when I need a break.

I decide where Ace sleeps, when he can or can’t socialize with other dogs and when playing is or is not appropriate.

I decide what behavior is “good” or “bad,” even if there is no consistency.

Yes, he is just a dog. But I am all he has, and he loves me no matter how much or how little I give.

Don’t forget what your dog does for you.

I love my mutt. Ace is a good boy.