Louie needs a pack. He needs other four-legged buddies, and
the more the merrier. He loves to play and frolic and just romp around because
he truly enjoys being with other dogs.
However, it wasn’t that long ago that he displayed signs of
fearfulness and timidity and wouldn’t engage in playful behavior with others. But
as he has become an emotionally healthy dog, it is clear that he loves being
part of a pack, which may consist of me, another dog, and maybe one or two other
humans. His relational skills have increased tremendously and he is thoroughly
enjoying life, not just surviving.
Why? Because he lets his need for others be known!
We’ve all heard the phrase, “We’re better together.” This is
true for canines as well as humans. Here are some of the benefits Louie gets
from being part of a pack:
• He’s learned to negotiate when is the right
time to take a chew toy from another.
• He watches, listens, and learns from others
what level of roughhousing is acceptable to them.
• He learns how to problem solve by pulling a toy from the pile when another
dog has his favorite.
• He shares—what’s not to love about the
communal water bowl?
• He’s learned to resolve some “differences.” When one of his buddies is done playing, they
let him know. He usually pays attention, though sometimes he’s like a bad
little brother who finds joy in annoying you!
• He’s committed and cooperates with others,
especially on walks. He’ll let his friends know if he’s picked up a particularly
interesting scent.
• He encourages others! This could be mistaken
as whining but by other’s reactions as he runs to greet them, I’ve believe this
is Louie’s way of singing…Because I’m HAPPY; wag along if you feel like happiness is the truth!
• He acknowledges and appreciates other's
strengths—we’re still working on this one.
• And finally—Louie loves Alpha Girls!
Louie
continues to show me what it takes to be a great leader. Teams and
relationships are necessary for our growth—we ARE better together. Appreciating
and valuing what others bring to the table regarding ideas, energy and connectedness
is invaluable. Shutting down creative ideas because they are out of our comfort
zone or because we didn’t think of them first will stagnate not only the team but
also our personal growth.
Ken
Blanchard says, “None of us is as smart as all of us!” We were created to be
together and we go further with other people. And who knows? When we are
intentional about being part of a team or a collective body of others and are open
to thier ideas, we may actually learn something.
