My Journey With Health And Fitness – The Wonderful Power Of Animals

I woke up this morning and realized for the first time since Thursday I didn’t cry yesterday. I think a large part of that had to do with the fact our friends here in Playa who all knew my brother did a blowout pool party send off for him on Sunday. We had thought it was just going to be a quite send off but nope, tons of food (ok, and booze) and so much laughter. I really think that party was very cathartic for me.

Another thing happened on Sunday. I’ve mentioned before that I feed all the cats in our complex. Many of them are feral but there are several that are obviously pets because they want human contact. My favourite is an orange and white friendly kitty that I have fed pretty much every day since I have been here. I missed him on Saturday because I did a walk far later than usual. But Sunday at the usual time he was waiting for me. I gave him his food and started walking a street that always loops me back to him for his 2nd helping. Occasionally he will walk with me which he did but this time was different. Normally he would just trot along behind me chatting away but Sunday he kept rubbing at my legs and crossing in front of me nearly tripping me.

I decided to stop and at that point that cat put his front paws on my knee and kept crying at me. I realized he wanted me to pick him up. Never had he done that with me before. So I scooped him up and he started purring and rubbing my cheeks. We did that for several minutes until he indicated he wanted down which I obliged. He then continued to walk with me back to his house but he walked beside me constantly looking up to check on me. I am certain he knew something was wrong and he wanted to comfort me. I saw him both yesterday and today but he is back to his normal routine of asking for his treats.

On top of that at the send off on Sunday 2 of the guests brought their dogs (after being encouraged to do so by the party organizer). The first was a golden retriever who is actually trained as a therapy dog. She was just so comforting to pet. The 2nd was this dachshund/chihuahua mix who is just full of energy. She is probably one of my favourite dogs that I have met down here and watching her antics just put a big smile on my face.

To me the comforting power of animals is amazing. Combined with enjoying the send off (ok, and the tequila) I think my kitty friend asking for cuddles and spending time with the dogs was exactly what I need to start moving forward.