Being a veterinarian, Mr.Rao had been called to examine a ten-year-old Irish Wolfhound named Tiger. The dog's owners, Ravi, his wife Neeta, and their little boy Shakti, were all very attached to Tiger, and they were hoping for a miracle.
Mr Rao examined Tiger and found he was dying of cancer. Mr.Rao told the family that he couldn't do anything for Tigerr, and offered to perform the euthanasia procedure for the old dog in their home.
As they made arrangements, Ravi and Neeta told mr.Rao that they thought it would be good for six-year-old Shakti to observe the procedure. They felt as though Shakti might learn something from the experience.
The next day, Rao felt the familiar catch in his throat as Ravi's family surrounded him. Shakti seemed so calm, petting the old dog for the last time, that Mr.Rao wondered if he understood what was going on. Within a few minutes, Tiger slipped peacefully away.
The little boy seemed to accept Tiger's transition without any difficulty or confusion. We sat together for a while after Tiger's Death, wondering aloud about the sad fact that animal lives are shorter than human lives. Shakti, who had been listening quietly, piped up, 'I know why.'
Startled, we all turned to him. What came out of his mouth next stunned me
He said, 'People are born so that they can learn how to live a good Life -- like loving everybody all the time and being nice, right?' The Six-year-old continued, 'Well, dogs already know how to do that, so they don't have to stay as long.'
Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
Remember, if a dog was the teacher you would learn things like:
When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.
Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure Ecstasy.
Take naps.
Stretch before rising.
Run, romp, and play daily.
Thrive on attention and let people touch you.
Avoid biting when a simple growl will do.
On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.
On hot days, drink lots of water and lie under a shady tree.
When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.
Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.
Be loyal.
Never pretend to be something you're not.
If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.
When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by, and nuzzle them gently.
ENJOY EVERY MOMENT OF EVERY DAY!