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June is for Best Friends

Especially the Ones with Four Paws

“A dog is the only thing on earth that loves you more than he loves himself.” – Josh Billings

Best Friends
Best Friends

June 8th is National Best Friends Day — a time to honor the people (and pets!) who bring unconditional love, support, and joy into our lives. And for many of us, that best friend has four legs, a wagging tail, and a heart full of loyalty.


Dogs have held the title of “man’s best friend” for centuries — and for good reason. Their devotion, protective instincts, and ability to love without limits make them more than just pets — they’re family. Whether they’re curled at your feet, bouncing with excitement when you walk through the door, or simply resting their head on your lap after a tough day, dogs have an incredible way of making life better.


A Bond That Goes Way Back

Did you know the friendship between humans and dogs goes back thousands of years? As far back as 15,000 years ago, humans began domesticating wolves, gradually forming a bond based on cooperation, trust, and mutual survival. Over time, dogs became hunters, herders, protectors, and eventually beloved companions.


Today, our dogs may not be helping us hunt dinner, but they still fulfill an important role — they’re there for us, no matter what. Through heartbreak and joy, celebration and sorrow, our pups remain by our side with gentle eyes and a lot of love.


I’ve often said, “Oh, the hugs my dog(s) received from me and the tears their fur has caught over the years.”


Adoption is a Commitment — Not a Whim

While the idea of rescuing a dog — and gaining a new best friend — is awesome, it’s important to remember that adoption is a commitment, not a spontaneous decision. Dogs depend on us for their entire lives, and giving them the love and care they deserve means thinking ahead and being ready.


Here’s what that commitment looks like:

  • Financial Responsibility: Dogs require vet visits, food, grooming, and sometimes medications or emergency care. Be sure you're ready for the ongoing investment.

  • Emotional Availability: Dogs need love, structure, and attention. They form deep bonds and rely on us to provide safety and affection.

  • Physical Commitment: Dogs need consistent engagement, whether it's daily walks, exercise, or training. Be honest about what you can handle, especially with certain breeds.

  • Lifelong Love: Dogs can be with us for 10–15 years or more. Be ready to be their forever home.

  • The Right Fit: Take the time to find a dog whose energy and personality match your lifestyle and your family.


When you adopt, you’re making a promise to a soul who may have never known stability or kindness. That promise should be made with thought, intention, and love.


Why Rescue Matters

Rescuing a dog is more than an act of kindness — it's a life-changing choice for both of you. Thousands of dogs nationwide are waiting in shelters and foster homes, hoping for someone to see their worth.


They may have been discarded, misunderstood, or left behind, but they still have so much love to give. With patience and care, rescue dogs often become the most devoted companions. They know what it means to be saved and show their gratitude in the most beautiful ways.


Rescuing a dog doesn’t just save their life—it often transforms yours.


Two of the four dogs I’ve had have been rescues. I’ve been blessed over and over by them both. My beautiful boy Digger was with me for 14 years, and my current buddy, Dexter, has been with me for 6 years so far. Both brought and bring such joy, love, and companionship.


Through all the ups and downs, the critters chased, the nights of being sprayed by a skunk, rolling in whatever dead thing found in the field, the miles and miles of walks, even the sicknesses, and yes, the inevitable goodbye, I wouldn’t change a thing except maybe that their lives could be a bit longer.


Over the years, I’ve come to realize that they are here for exactly as long as they are meant to be. They are doing their job of loving and protecting, and they do it so well, don’t they?


“You can’t buy love, but you can rescue it.” – Unknown


Celebrate Best Friends Day All Month Long

June might mark National Best Friends Day, but if you ask any dog lover, every day is best friend day when you have a pup by your side.


This month, take a moment to celebrate the dog in your life — or consider opening your heart and home to a dog still waiting for a forever friend. Whether you donate, foster, volunteer, or adopt, your act of love can change everything.


To the dogs who love us without conditions—thank you for being the best kind of best friend.


WHAT'S NEW in the Realm?

Weekly episodes of Let Fear Bounce Podcast! That’s what’s new!

Have you tuned in yet?

Join me each Wednesday on Let Fear Bounce Podcast for lively chats with some cool people worldwide!

Tune in on your favorite listening platform and YouTube. Be sure to like and Subscribe while you are there! Over 85% of folks who listen or tune in are NOT subscribed. What? Be sure to hit that Subscribe button, folks.


What else is new?

Not so new now, but there is a new Playlist on the Let Fear Bounce YouTube Channel called Soothing Sounds. These are short videos with beautiful scenery and relaxing music. Take 5, 10, or 20 minutes to relax, unwind, and breathe. I hope you enjoy them and are able to find a few minutes of peace in a busy day.


Nuggets of Hope, released last November, is available on Amazon. This book invites you to embark on a journey of kindness for others and yourself.

And for all you animal lovers, don't forget about the Paw Print books! They're also available on Amazon: Paw Prints on the Couch and Paw Prints on the Kitchen Floor.


What are you all up to this summer?


Until next month,


Be well, stay well, and be blessed,

Kim Lengling

 


What I use to schedule my social media:

Publer.io has been my go-to for a scheduling app!

 
 
 

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©2024 by Kim Lengling Author

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