(WO)MAN's Best Friend

Thorns may hurt you, men desert you, sunlight turn to fog;
but you're never friendless ever, if you have a dog.

Douglas Mallock

There is no doubt that horsemen and women naturally gravitate towards dogs. Hunting sports historically link canines and equines with humans, but I believe most of us that adore the equestrian lifestyle have an innate compassion for our "smaller" four legged companions. Our dogs are the most loyal of friends. They are always ecstatic when we arrive home, never leak our darkest confessions, wait and travel patiently with us, and have a never ending abundance of affection. They are members of our families.

I appreciate every day that I spend with Stella, my border collie. I don't like to use the word "my" to refer to Stella as I do not see her as a possession. I have had both working dogs and pure companion dogs in my life and in each case they have set an example of unconditional love. As I get older, I tend to be a bit more soft hearted and I probably spoil Stella with a few too many Starbuck's Puppaccinnos, amongst other things. These small gestures are the least I can extend in exchange for the number of smiles she provides me each day.

Salut!

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