Creatures of Habits

We like to think that we know what our dogs and cats prefer. We forget that they are not humans. We can't put ourselves in their place and presume to know what they are thinking or feeling. Of course, with experience, some of us can learn to read the telltale signs and are able to come close to understanding their needs. For most of us though, we delude ourselves into believing we know what they want.

We buy new leashes and collars to make up for neglecting to spend time with them. We get a new fancy diet as a celebration of some milestone. We take them to a strange fun place as a treat.

Then we wonder why they seem quiet after the new adventures. Or why they are vomiting when the tasteful fancy treats are such better quality than their regular everyday kibbles.

We forget that some pets prefer the old and mundane. That their system (or stomach) can't handle sudden changes. That they find safety and security in the familiars.

So don't ask if we would like something if we were in their place. Ask if they would like it. And hopefully, we know them well enough to know the answers.