Our Fur Baby Whom We Affectionately Named "Cookie"

 A Special Member of the Family 

It is a common misconception that dogs are just pets. A lot of individuals treat their dogs as if they were members of the family. Many individuals feel blessed to have such a loyal friend by their side, but there is more to it than meets the eye. Unconditional friendship from dogs helps people of all ages cope with life's ups and downs, from young children who struggle to make friends to the elderly who have lost a spouse or loved one.

In addition to being a member of our family, dogs play a vital function in society. For example, they assist people with disabilities and those who require aid with everyday tasks like walking or catching a bus. Spending time with dogs lowers our blood pressure and stress levels because they make us feel better about ourselves.

One of the many reasons dogs are regarded as family members is the unwavering devotion they provide.

And Then, Cookie Came...

Cookie was barely 3 months old when she came into our lives. I remember her as a little, disobedient puppy who liked to urinate and defecate anywhere. Well, she was still a puppy at the time, thus her behavior was uncontrollable. She also chewed a lot of objects around the house, including pillows, slippers, shoes, and other items. My husband potty-trained Cookie, and she gradually learned where to defecate and urinate. She unexpectedly quit chewing stuff.

Cookie’s Kidney Stones Operation and Spay Surgery

Due to the excitement of having a fur baby in the house for the first time, my husband was fond of feeding Cookie table food. Cookie appears to be a spoiled "child" and a picky eater, and whenever she refuses to eat, my husband always feeds her chicken.

In 2015, Cookie developed urinary issues, prompting my daughter to take her to a veterinary friend, who diagnosed Cookie with kidney stones. Urgent surgery was required because she was unable to urinate normally.

Despite the veterinarian's advice that Cookie not be fed table food, my husband insisted on feeding Cookie table food and chicken again. Four years later, Cookie required a second kidney stone procedure. 

And a month after her kidney stone operation, Cookie underwent spay surgery because we always noticed discharge on the floor where she usually sleeps, which the veterinarian identified as the beginning of a uterine infection that would progress to pyometra. And we were informed that spaying Cookie could also extend her lifespan.

After a series of operations, it seems as if nothing has changed; she lives a normal life and she is still the same stubborn yet lovable baby we had.

The Best Office Mate and Companion

When we woke up in the morning, I would generally start my day by walking to my computer table and getting to work. Cookie, on the other hand, will go underneath my chair and stay there for the duration of my sitting. She will patiently wait for me until I finish working. She is definitely the best and most supportive officemate and buddy I've ever had.

When I used to work in the office, she would patiently wait for me to come home at the entrance door, and when I entered the house, she would jump to me to get my attention, as if we hadn't seen each other in a very long time.

The Most Loved Breed of Dog

Here are some of the reasons why shih tzu dogs like Cookie, are the most loved breed of dogs:

1. Great companion. Shih tzus have a reputation for being excellent companion animals. This breed is family-oriented, affectionate, loyal, friendly, and protective. They make excellent guard dogs and protect their owners' homes. Due to their kind attitude and quiet disposition, Shih Tzus are generally recommended as therapy dogs.

2. Intelligent. These breeds' intelligence is not only obvious but also impressive. It has been demonstrated that these dogs are extremely trainable. Their intelligence allows them to quickly understand commands and respond positively to training. Shih Tzus show signs of intelligence from the time they are very young. If you train and teach them well, they will do what you say without question. Their minds work quickly, which makes it easier for them to understand what to do compared to other kinds of dogs.

3. Perfect with kids. There are many kinds of dogs, but the shih tzu is one of the best ones for kids to grow up with if you want them to be safe around other pets. Because they are small, they don't pose much of a threat to kids. Additionally, they are incredibly playful and joyful. Kids enjoy playing with them, and most of the time they don't even realize how attached they've become.

A Boy Holding a Shih Tzu Dog

4. Loyalty. Shih tzus are known for their extreme loyalty, which is one of the breed's prettiest characteristics. Whatever happens, they will never abandon you. Even if they are left home alone, they will wait patiently for their fur parents to come home.

5. Beautiful. A shih tzu is incredibly attractive. This puppy is just adorable! As they age, they develop into attractive adults. Therefore, if you've got this breed, you truly possess something exceptional.

Reasons Why You Need to Bring a Furry Friend Into Your Home

Dogs are remarkable animals who provide their owners nothing but love and devotion. The love of a dog is unconditional, unselfish, and forgiving, and it is always ready to protect its master. The fact that dogs can understand what people say gives man's best friend a whole new level. Dogs seem to be interested in what we say because they look up at us when we talk. Honestly, I think they can read our minds.

Companionship is something that dogs can offer. In times of solitude, the unconditional love and companionship of a dog can make all the difference. They have been shown to lessen the risk of heart disease, lower cholesterol, make individuals happier, make them feel better about themselves, help them avoid despair, make them feel less pain, and extend their lives.

Dogs love us no matter what, and they are loyal and look out for us. We feel safe, warm, and secure when we are with them. When they're around, we feel like we belong, and they help us get over a bad day.

People's moods tend to improve after interacting with dogs. When things are at their worst, you can still find solace in your dog's company. It's easy to forget the good sentiments that once existed under the heaviness of depression, anger, or other negative emotions. The joyful sound of your dog's bark can elevate your spirits and motivate you.

Dogs give us a purpose for living. There will always be challenges in life, and there will be times when it appears that everything is going wrong. The contrary is far from being true. Every day there are certainly negative incidents, but there are also millions of wonderful ones. Our dog appears on this list. They indicate that happiness is always close at hand. Even in the darkest of times, we can rest assured that they are always nearby to offer comfort.

Dogs make our life more enjoyable! Take a look at all the countless ways they brighten our days, from playing catch to cuddling in bed to simply being together. They teach us compassion, creativity, responsibility, and patience, among other things.

Dogs are good for our health. They help people get the exercise they need. Taking a dog for a walk is a good way to get in shape and burn calories. And if we take care of them, they will help us stay fit and healthy. A study shows that people who own dogs are twice as active as people who don't own dogs.

No matter what happens, a dog never surrenders. Despite the fact that a dog may not comprehend everything about the world, he/she continually endeavors to do so. Dog's perseverance teaches us to persevere and motivates us to pursue ambitious goals.

A dog is considered by many to be one of God's finest creations. Because in one day He bestowed upon them allegiance, defense, companionship, and a place to call home.

Cookie Teaches Me Life Lessons

Human tends to label people based on their looks and their status in life. But dogs do not judge anyone. Cookie did not care if we are wealthy or poor, tall or short, attractive or unattractive, nor did she actually care about any of these things. She views everyone with pure, loving eyes, and never abandons anyone. Despite her diminutive stature, she loves us unconditionally. She will do anything for us and is always concerned about our security, happiness, and love. She knows when I'm feeling down and will sit next to me till I feel better, never leaving my side.

I've learned a lot from Cookie. We've been through ups and downs together and have fought many battles. I wouldn't trade those moments for anything in the world.

Cookie is currently 10 years old, which corresponds to a human age of 62. I hate to think that she won't be with us for a very long time, but I hope and pray that God would give me enough strength to face the day when it’s time for her to cross the rainbow bridge.