Chapter 05
In his famous work, An Essay on Man, 18th century English poet Alexander Pope penned the words, “Hope springs eternal”. Over the next three centuries, that phrase has been used in books, movies, music and other formats, but the sentiment never gets old, especially this time of year. The weather starts to warm, green leaves seem to magically appear on the trees while the chirps of baby ducks and chicks can be heard in feed stores across the nation. The signs of new life are everywhere.
I can’t help but feel a sense of new beginnings, as well. In sports, Major League baseball’s Opening Day is April 7th. No matter how bad a team was last season, hope springs eternal that this could be the year that they lift the World Series trophy. As a Christian, Easter also holds special meaning for me with its message of new life and resurrection.
Even though Spring is a time to celebrate new life, did you know that owning a pet is scientifically proven to increase life-expectancy? According to a study by researchers at the University of Virginia, people who own a dog or cat are forty percent less likely to develop heart disease. They also help reduce workplace stress, along with loneliness and depression. I know it’s hard for me to feel depressed when I share daily adventures with my puppy Gabe.
Every day, regardless of the season, Gabe seems to wake up full of boundless energy and a zest for life. Even at six months old, weighing nearly 50 lbs., every time I go outside, Gabe gets a running start and leaps in my lap. Putting his paws on my shoulders, he gives me the K-9 version of a hug and proceeds to give my face and ears a good licking. Male Chesapeake Bay Retrievers can reach up to 115 lbs. when fully grown, and I’m sure Gabe will still think he’s a lap dog as an adult. I would not have it any other way.
Spring is also associated with tasty treats. Whether you prefer Chocolate bunnies, marshmallow peeps, jellybeans, or some other traditional Easter delicacy in your Easter basket, it is something to look forward to. Thanks to Arin’s Good Girl Dog treats, your dog can now also look forward to an Easter treat. That’s because the popular Peanut Butter Pumpkin, along with the Cheese and Bacon flavors, are available in a special Spring Cookie package. Each package includes a six-inch bone-shaped treat, along with four smaller treats in the shape of chicks, ducks and bunnies. Think of them as Peeps for your pooch. Arin’s Good Girl Dog Treats is also offering special treats in their top-selling flavors in recognition of Autism Awareness Month in April.
So, in this time where we celebrate new life, new possibilities and new beginnings, remember to include man’s best friend. They are with you in the good times, and they are a loyal companion when times turn bad. With a dog, it’s easy to understand that Hope does indeed Spring Eternal.
