Dog Training: Lessons Learned from Othello

Our old doggie, Othello, departed from this life only a few days ago, but memories of him stay vivid as life goes on without him. We miss his quirky antics and his oh-so-sweet spirit.

We rescued him over ten years ago. He was bone thin, had been severely abused, and was fearful of everything and everyone. Gradually, though, he learned that supper was always available, no one was going to hurt him, and that he could relax. We even taught him how to growl and play.

He still had issues, though, like the continuing need to ‘nurse’ his security blanket, and he got unsettled when his routines were disrupted (like missing the daily walk). He ‘ministered’ out at ArtWalk with our dream team every month for seven years. He was sweet, gentle, and loved everyone. He especially liked to entice children to tug on his precious blanket or a rope toy to engage them in play.

His doggie legacy lives on. Othello’s mottos for living life:

• When an ‘enemy’ enters into your territory and you don’t know what to do, a good head-butt works

• Enjoy every single pillow that life presents—every soft spot and restful place needs to be fully appreciated

• Treat the tender little ones with the utmost care because they might get scared if you come on too strong

• Sometimes you just have to howl or sing a bit to let off a little steam

• Wag your tail when you eat so your mommy knows you appreciate the dinner she made

• Even the deepest wounds can be healed with a little time, love, hugs and kisses

• A warm bath and blanket snuggles are a great way to end the day

• Look cute and keep your people laughing. The more joy, the better

• Do your part in lawn care by weed whacking and watering the landscape

• Stay strong and keep on loving, even when you don’t feel too good

• When you mess up, acknowledgment and humility go a long way toward cleaning things up

• Greet everyone you meet with a wag and hearty excitement. Then they know they are loved

I’m missing my old dog. But we have so many good memories of him and are grateful for our time with him. He regularly appeared in my dreams—usually representing friends or people that I am responsible for. I imagine he will still show up in my dreams—I look forward to seeing him there again sometime soon!

Rest in peace, Othello.

What are some things you have learned from your beloved pets?