A Dog's Devotion

Callie Taking Care of MeWhy do I include dogs in my books, youask?
Well, Callie is an example ofwhy.  Recently I went through a longbattle with pneumonia. Callie was by my side constantly, day and night.  No matter where I wandered, she followed. (Thatincluded trips to the bathroom.) She wouldn't even let me go into our walk-incloset without her.  No matter how long Ilaid in bed, she hovered over me. At times I felt like I had to peel her offme, she stayed so close against me.  Shetried desperately to lick me better, often wearing me out.  She wouldn't settle for sitting next to mebut wanted to be on top of me. Yes, at times, I wanted to say "back off."  But, you could see the worry and concern inher eyes.  With every cough or gasp forbreath I took, she lifted her head to check on me.  That, my friends, is unconditional love.
Finally, she's decided that I'm goingto live. Although the love continues to shine in her eyes, she's more apt tosleep in her own bed, stray from side to explore the new snowfall, or go to therest of the family for hugs and pats on the head.
Many years ago, my husband and Istarted seeing a family counselor.  Hisadvice seemed sound and reasonable.  Thatis, until one day when he gave us his view on animals.  He told us he believes animals only have a collective conscience. Something like the Borg on Star Trek: The Next Generation. Animals are all connected withouttheir own personalities or thoughts.
I guess you can figure out whathappened next.  Our sessions abruptlyended, and we questioned the validity of everything the man had said. Dogs, anyanimal for that matter, without their own distinct personality or thoughts?  Pretty ludicrous in my opinion.  What's do you think?   Do youthink animals have unique personalities and their own thought processes? I reallywant to know.

CindyA ChristiiansenSweetRomance, Comedy, Suspense…and Dogs!Flyinto a good book at: www.dragonflyromance.com

Cindy A. Christiansen
Sweet (clean) Romance Author