Animal Addiction
Lately, a new addiction has formed. I am hooked on the Doggy Day Care videos from Australia. The doggie camp does the same thing every day, in terms of activities and routines, but the dogs are different. Talk about joy during a time of great stress. Nothing beats it, for me. Each pooper has his own personality and energy. It’s a blast!
The farm is 10-acres of fun. The animals are picked up by bus, arrive at the farm, and then allowed to be what they are. Dogs. They get to roll in stinky stuff, search for treats in the bush, play until their tongues are hanging out to the ground, and basically just be a pack. Then they get to swim in a heated magnesium bath, which is good for their joints and muscles.
The owners genuinely love these furry creatures. Every one of them, no matter the size or shape. There are small dog days, for the little poopers that have short legs and can’t run with the big dogs. There are birthday parties, where the birthday pooper gets a chicken and cheese cake. These folks have thought out every detail to make this a place where your pet can be themselves without a leash or concrete under their paws.
What I find fascinating is that not once have I witnessed a squabble between pack members. They play hard but there is no bad behavior. Granted, I doubt that would be videoed but Luke, the owner, doesn’t allow bad behavior and corrects it immediately. What’s great about that, is the way he does it. You can just tell he is most comfortable and in love with all the animals.
Wonder if I could start an Adult Day Care farm? Each acre would be where people could be human. No judgement. No bias. No bad behavior. Nah! Must be delusional. It would never work. Someone would be corrected for bad behavior and then sue the farm and kill the dream for everyone else.
Sorry. Lost my mind for a moment. Back to animals.
Quite frankly, in my wildest dreams, I could not think of a better job in the whole of the Universe. During my younger years, I tried to open a day care (before they were a thing) and could not find anyone who would fund me. People thought I was crazy and that no one would pay to have someone watch their dog every day. I was young, broke and afraid to take the risk as a single parent.
This family did it right. They got all the permits, did all the research, provide every kind of experience for pooper’s senses to use. Most importantly, they provide unconditional love. It was a long, tough road for them, but they stuck it out and I couldn’t be happier for their success.
This new addiction brings me great joy without negative physical side-effects, like my chocolate does.
Bonus!
