Reflection of 2020 through a Pet’s Eyes
As we walk from 2020 through the gateway to 2021, we can reflect on this year with the help of the animal companions that bless our lives. If we step back or step up to see life from their perspective, we see a large mirror for our own challenges. The very thing that we hoped for most, togetherness is the very top wish on their list as well. The presence of family, friends - connection, that is so important in our lives is what they strive to receive from their families. Just as we are social beings in our own unique ways, so too are the animal companions who make up our families.
When things shifted in March, April and May, we found ourselves missing interaction and being or working from home more, the animal companions in your life celebrated the opportunity to be with you more even though they too had to get used to you being there or sitting in their favorite napping spot or being connected online more. They were excited to have you home as it meant they got to see you physically more often. Many people struggled because they felt disconnected from family, friends and activities that were a part of their version of what was normal during that time period.
Fast forward to a reopening and in some cases a return-to-work environments or some social distancing interactions, now your pet family members are experiencing what you did earlier in the year…a withdrawal from those they love and want to be around. Now, it’s them walking that path – many solo and others in tandem with siblings. Just as it was a struggle for many people, it was for our animal companions. Missing the connection, communication, the touch, love and companionship more now than ever.
For some animal beings, giving them something to look forward to is key at this point. Whether that is a walk or play time, companionship dedicated to them is important. Of the families I check in on regularly, whether it is one, two or three times a week, the dogs and cats know the days. In one kid’s case, it is a 45 to 50-minute walk with him picking the route and us connecting or chatting throughout it. He is getting the interaction he desires and the opportunity of new sights, scents and sounds while out with a friend. In another case, the dog and cat family are receiving what they want – connection, home-based interaction and individualized one-on-one attention in their own way whether a belly rub, someone to play with in the backyard or even some Reiki or connection inside. They just want to know they have not been forgotten in the rush to get back to a routine.
