While everyone thinks "me time" is for humans only, think again. Pets, especially dogs, who have been loyally giving their time to us deserve me time" too. Why? Your reasons for needing your own pretty much is the same for them.
Dogs are social creatures. They enjoy attention. They love to be cuddled and adored. Their social cognitive skills have become parallel to that of humans due to their long term association with them.
This weekend, we took Chase - our one year old French Bulldog to an event nearby. It was his first time to go to such gathering. We always had him at home. While everyone were bringing their dogs along with them to their trips to malls, Chase was just at home.
The event was sponsored by Dueños de Perros en Ciudad de Cavite (Dog Owners of Cavite City) along with top dog food brands and respective veterinary clinics. It was also Kiero and Kiera's first time to attend to a dog show and boy, were they so excited to see just too many dogs in one place. We got there just a few minutes after registration started. The line was really long. Thus, just coming a few minutes late, Chase's number is 83. There were a total of 136 dogs that participated. All from different shapes and sizes.
Perros de Mayo (May dogs) was the name of the event. We didn't knew. We were just told it was an event for dogs. When we got there, some dog owners were in their gowns and tuxedos and anything you could wear on a Flores de Mayo (May flower) parade. Although majority were in their most comfortable clothes, it would have been fun if we dressed up a little. Maybe next time. After all, the humidity was on all sorts crazy, we would have been soaked in perspiration if we were.
The dogs sure had fun walking up on stage, showing off along with their fur moms their best dresses. Kiero, in his most comfortable house clothes didn't mind going up the stage too. He was very proud of Chase. Mind you, he's gotten thunderous claps because his and Chase's charms worked.
As a fur-parent, the event led me to realize they do need their time to socialize with other people - and dogs too! Chase, as we thought was hyper. He's got so much energy when he gets off his cage, knocking down whatever comes his way. We never brought him away from home because we feared he'd get angry at other dogs. This is the same reason our morning walks are too short. We were scared he will not behave as we like him to be infront of other humans.
We were wrong. As soon as we got there, and everyone kept showing him praises and nodding his head, he seemed a different dog. He was at his most behaved state. Laying down, when someone touches his chin, giving them high 5 when they extend their hands to him. He's never done that to me. The thing I was mostly scared of felt like I just made up. He was so nice dealing with other dogs. Never heard any bark. Never attempted to run. He was still full of energy but I felt he was happy. While we were walking towards our seats and with dogs and other fur parents looking at us, it felt as if he had his head high and telling everyone, "Nice to meet you, buddy!"
Events like these are benefits for both dogs and owners. And I'm not just saying that because I got ton loads of freebies! This is their time to get used to seeing other dogs and not be angry and defensive when they see one. It also makes them at ease to be around other people. Events like these gives owners free information about their pets as well. Free checkups were given, and more information about responsible dog ownership.
It was a fun way to cap the week with this kind of #beautifulSunday. Furbaby got too tired, he never left Mommy's lap after walking up the stage.
Thanks for reading!
Love,
Jonah (and Jay)