The Canine Connection: How Dogs Unleash the Magic Inside Us!

Have you ever paid close attention to that moment when your dog first notices the sights, smells, and sandy shores of the beach? If you have, I’m sure you’ve delighted in the unbridled enthusiasm and joie de vivre that oozes from every butt wiggle and helicopter tail. Before I unclip the leash, I ask for a wait, or a moment of calm from my Poodinois (Standard Poodle and Belgian Malinois mix), Belly. Amid this upper echelon of challenging environments, I will even settle for brief eye contact before I release her. Let’s be realistic, this is not the moment to train that behavior, the shaping of a “wait” cue has been developed in much less distracting and lower arousal settings throughout our lives together. Once you get over the fact that you are not the most interesting thing to your dog right now, you can truly indulge in the eruption of joy that soon manifests into sand-gremlin-zoomies and exaggerated play bows. A dog’s ability to relish in the present moment and fully experience the vigor of nature’s gifts is inspiring. And if we’re paying close enough attention, we are lucky enough to catch a spark of their lust for life.

In today’s modernized and fast-paced world, it’s easy to get lost in the grind of superfluous appointments, congested commutes, and endless background noise. For me and many of my clients, making time for our dogs amongst all the life responsibilities can prove incredibly challenging. What if I told you that even as an active dog guardian and professional, I too, experience the guilt of feeling like I’m not doing enough to meet my dog’s needs? The good news is, it doesn’t mean that our human needs must take a back seat. Miraculously, our dog’s needs happen to be aligned with what we truly require. I’m convinced that the magic of a mindful presence and a do-less attitude is what’s missing from our daily routine. Being able to tap into our bodies and child-like souls strengthens our bond with our canine companions and our essential selves. That’s why my mission is to empower guardians to create every opportunity to slow down and connect with the natural world. I am certain that you, your dog, and your community will thank you for it.

When we operate from this grounded space, authenticity and curiosity can thrive. My dogs have been some of my greatest teachers in this life’s education. They’ve taught me to stay in the present and honor the journey in all its painful and sublime growth. They’ve taught me to be courageous in times of turmoil. But most importantly, they’ve taught me to practice radical acceptance and self-love. I can never repay the gifts dogs have bestowed upon me, but I can surely try to share them with the beautifully complex humans in my orbit. I have faith that the ripple effect of this application of positive reinforcement is vast and regenerative. In these tumultuous times, we need to build each other up more than ever. It starts here and now, with daily choices to connect and create, feel the sun, share a powerful story, listen to the water flow, volunteer your time, dance for freedom, and see and be seen by your dog. When we establish a sense of personal and communal safety, our hearts remain open, and we can acknowledge our interconnectedness to all living beings. On a grander scale, we magnify our ability to show up for ourselves and others.

It is my hope and the Fluff Scouts mission to empower guardians and their dogs to forge a deep, authentic connection, where understanding flows freely and compassion leads the way. By creating a safe, nurturing space, we ignite curiosity and open the doors to learning, allowing both humans and dogs to grow, heal, and thrive together in harmony. Dogs are such a beautiful reminder that our fictitious boxes and the barriers we create to preserve an illusion of safety are futile and divisive. Now more than ever, community is an act of resistance, tenderness is an act of resistance, seeking education and being a savvy consumer of information is an act of resistance, and embracing positive reinforcement in dog training and our daily lives is an act of resistance. You and the love you must share are an act of resistance. I believe in you and your dog and the profound impact we all can have in the short time we get on this spinning rock. I look forward to connecting and learning with you on this beautiful journey!