Man's Best Friend

In the Metropolitan section of the NY Times Feb 12th there was a section following David Frei's Sunday Routine. David is the co-host of the 136th Westminster Kennel club dog show at Madison Square Garden and owns two beautiful spaniels, Angel, a Cavalier King Charles and Grace, a Brittany. Honestly I am very new to how healing animals, especially dogs are to their owners.

My dear pal Jane has the most magnificent white haired, blue eyed dog called Puffy. She is madly in love with her "Puffer." True an absolutely sweet, smart and connected dog. After all Jane is a reknown psychotherapist.

My dear pals Robin and Robert got their first puppy the day after Thanksgiving. Spot, yes that's his name, is a beautiful rare colored brown Havanese, that is perky and so lovable. Robin said she can't believe she waited all these years. Spot has added a loving dimension to her and Roberts lives. Robin was so sweet with him. "Arden I have so much love to give, it's a win win all the way." Awwww.

As a Family Psychotherapist, I have had some patients, not too in touch with the depth of their feelings, struggling to express their softer side. Not with their dogs!!!! So much affection. It's absolutely healing and wonderful for me to share and observe.

My kids Samara and Todd always wanted a dog. I would say, when you have your own apartments in Manhattan then get yourself a dog. You know how I am. Achoo at the very thought!

So is there a change of heart? I know so when am I going to get a dog? At 61, very allergic, yes even to the hypoallergenic sweet pups, I am so satisfied to be an "Auntie" visit, revel and as they say in yiddish, I Qvelle!