The Barnaby Blog 28 Feb 2025

Counting One's Blessings: A Woofing Good Reflection

Woof! Barnaby here, your favorite miniature schnauzer and proud co-founder of Barnaby & Boo's!

Let me take a break from my busy schedule of squirrel-watching and belly rubs to share some important thoughts from my doggy perspective. Even though I may be small in stature, my heart is bursting with gratitude these days!

The Return of My Dear Friend James

My tail hasn't stopped wagging since our special human friend James returned to our community pack! After too many moons of him being away during his recovery from that scary medical emergency (I could smell something was wrong even before the humans did), he's finally back where he belongs.

I've missed our special visits to his house where I have my favorite sunny spot by his back door. James always knows exactly where to scratch behind my ears, During his absence, I would sometimes sit by the window, keeping watch for his return.

The humans talk about something called "NHS" and "community support," but what I understand is that many humans formed a protective circle around James, just like my pack would do for me. That's what good packs do! And now he's back, with different smells but the same kind voice, and that's something worth howling about!

Me as Doggy Parton

Me and Boo!

James

My Human Sister Boo is Growing Up!

Arf! Big news alert! My human sister Clara (or "Boo" as everyone at Barnaby & Boo's knows her) is turning 13! I can hardly believe it – that's nearly 91 in dog years!

I remember when she was a smaller human, just learning to throw my ball (often not very far, but I'd fetch it anyway to make her happy). Now she's becoming what they call a "teenager," which seems to involve more time with her phone and less time for tummy rubs, but her lap is still my favorite place in the world.

Clara and I have grown up together, and while I may have taught her about unconditional love and the importance of daily walks, she's taught me about patience (especially when she dresses me up for those Instagram photos) and sharing (though I still don't share my favorite chew toy – a dog has limits!).

Our Community Pack

One thing I've noticed on my daily walks around the neighborhood – we have the best community pack a dog could ask for! The humans at Barnaby & Boo's always save a little treat for me and know exactly how I like my water bowl filled.

I see how all these humans – teachers, neighbors, church friends – help Clara grow just like a good pack helps its puppies. They take turns watching over her, teaching her new tricks (they call them "skills"), and making sure she feels secure.

As a dog, I understand pack mentality better than most. Our community is like one big, wonderful pack where everyone has a role. Some provide food, some provide safety, some provide wisdom, and some (like me) provide cuddles and comic relief. Together, we make something stronger than any of us could be alone.

A Dog's Wisdom on Gratitude

We dogs know something that humans sometimes forget: happiness isn't about having the biggest bone or the most toys. It's about the joy of a familiar scent, the comfort of your pack nearby, and the simple pleasure of sunshine on your fur.

When James was gone, I missed him terribly. When Clara is at school, I wait patiently by the door. These moments of separation have taught me that reunions are precious gifts to be celebrated with enthusiastic jumps and plenty of licks!

In dog wisdom, every day we wake up to our humans is a blessing. Every walk is an adventure. Every meal is a feast. Perhaps that's why we're so happy most of the time – we count our blessings naturally, without even trying.

So as Clara celebrates her birthday and James rejoins our extended pack, this little schnauzer is reminded that even when life throws us a scary vet visit or a thunderstorm, there's always something good waiting on the other side – usually involving treats and ear scratches.

Woof of wisdom: Live like a dog – find joy in the small things, stay loyal to your pack, and never underestimate the healing power of a good nap!

Tail wags and puppy kisses, Barnaby

Keywords: dog perspective, canine wisdom, family pet, miniature schnauzer, Barnaby and Boo's, community support, recovery journey, teenage milestones, gratitude practice, family bonds, NHS support, church community, pet therapy, celebrating life, overcoming challenges, community resilience

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