8 Important Life Lessons Every College Girl Can Learn From Her Dog
Once you have a dog, you understand why pup parents are head-over-heels for their pet.
The unconditional love of a dog is something a person can never give, no matter how hard they try. There is not a thing you could do that would stop a dog from loving you.
Once you trade in everything you know and love for an entirely new college lifestyle, the change of scenery may be scary without your best furry friend by your side. Especially if you moved away for college, you'll notice a lot of little things that you miss terribly about your pet.
Small things you see will often remind you of your dog, and before you know it, you'll realize just what your pup has been trying to show you all of these years.
Here are eight important life lessons every college girl can learn from her dog.
1. Don't Underestimate The Power Of A Nap
According to Dr. Becker, dogs spend around 50 percent of their time sleeping, and another 30 percent awake, but resting.
Dogs sleep this much to meet the physical and mental demands of the remaining part of their day, which could include activities where they exude a ton of energy.
Humans need to sleep to refresh the body and mind as well. It's normal to lose a lot of sleep in college due to homework, stress, or a social life, but make sure to catch up on some rest as soon as you can.
2. Love Is Greater Than Fear, Hate, Or Anger
When you accidentally step on your dog's tail, they'll yelp. A moment later, however, everything is back to normal.
Dogs don't hold grudges, or take revenge on those they dislike; they love and forgive unconditionally. We should, too.
It takes up so much unnecessary mental power to stay angry or afraid. Not only is it time consuming, but it can have an effect on your physical health as well.
3. Be Loyal
There's no question that dogs are loyal. They're considered "man's best friend" after all.
Even though we do need to take care of ourselves (and may think of ourselves before others at times), it's important to honor our morals, and respect those who are important to us.
Keep an eye on your pup next time you're at home, and you'll understand.
4. Drink Lots Of Water
Hydration is super important for all mammals, but people tend not to make it a priority.
Dogs, on the other hand, get water whenever their body tells them to. This is most often after being active, as burning energy heats up the body and requires more water for temperature regulation.
Take notes, girl. Water is important.
5. Enjoy The Moment
By observing your dog's behavior, you can tell that they don't worry about the future like people do.
Dogs get a toy when they want to play, not in case they want to play later. They eat when they are hungry, nap when they are tired, and cuddle up to their people when they want some attention.
Of course it's smart to think ahead in certain situations, but living your entire life one step ahead could cause you to miss what's already right in front of your face.
6. Spend Time With Those You Love
My favorite thing about coming home from college is the way my dog greets me when I arrive.
Even if I'm asleep on the couch, or barely paying attention to him, he's so happy I'm there. If people acted that way, we'd spend a lot less time wondering who our true friends are.
Pups love to be with their people, no matter what they're doing. Unlike people, they never pass up an opportunity to spend time with those they love.
7. Don't Forget To Stretch
Younger people, especially college students, tend to overlook stretching, even before and after a workout. Everyone needs to stretch, though, and it's something you can easily learn from your pup.
Getting up? Stretch.
Going for a walk? Stretch.
Going to sleep? Stretch.
8. Give New Things A Chance
Dogs follow their noses, which is probably why they are so curious and adventurous.
They investigate new smells, new people, and any new dogs they meet, whereas people tend to stick with what's comfortable. Being around what you know isn't a bad thing, but it often limits your opportunities to expand your horizons.
