My pet Havanese Shaina is the light of my world.
I grew up in a pet friendly home. Laika, a Pomeranian, came into my life when I was 6 years old and Munni, a German Shepherd, in my adulthood.
Laika lived to a ripe old age of 17 years, while Munni was around to see her 16th birthday. Shaina is smart, intelligent and energetic; her youthful vitality easily belying her 12 years.
Growing up, I recall my parents often being asked the secret to the long, healthy lives of our pets and their unbelievably wonderful temperament. Such questions continue to this day reg my Shaina.
In the past we would shrug it off with a “it’s all in the genes”, with an air of gratitude.
But lately I have been pondering over this – is it ALL in the genes – or is there more to it.
While good genes do play a vital role in the longevity in dogs (and humans), I do believe now that we must have done something right as well.
Besides healthy common sense practices like good nutrition, plenty of exercise and loads of love, there was one “activity” which I believe, played a crucial role.
You see, when my brothers and I were little, our dad lived by a cardinal principle – avoid unnecessary medications – the operative word being “unnecessary“. He posited that the more drugs a pet was subjected to, more the complications that arose, creating even more long term health issues.
He strongly believed in “giving nature a chance to rectify health and bring it back to optimal”. He would be fastidious about this.
Decades later we know this to be true of most meds, whether for pets or humans. My dad was clearly ahead of his time.
I reflect back now, on the countless occasions when we resisted darting off to the vet, but instead adopted a more restrained ‘wait and observe’ stand, only to be served well.
Today, I find myself making similar decisions with Shaina – press the pause button and give nature a chance. I have yet to regret it.
To be clear, if your pet has a serious health issue that needs to be addressed, it’s crucial to go seek professional help. I am, by no means, advocating neglecting a pet’s needs; how could I – they are like family.
I am stating however, that in the routine humdrum of life, just like us, the health of pets go thru minor hiccups. These are neither emergencies nor grave crisis. Instead of pumping meds right off the bat, good idea to take a deep breath, give it some time and watch. You would be surprised.
Nature heals and does a great job of it too! And your pet will only thank you for it!
