Moseley’s Tips

Moseley (1996-2010) my beloved canine Guru and Sage to many, shared her tips for living:

Don't take yourself too seriously. You usually just create embarrassing drama.

Get plenty of rest and don't worry too much about things you can't control.

Rediscover your inner puppy. You are never too old for a wild run with a squeaky toy.

Some people look at it as the "same old walk", but to me it's all brand new every day.

Be sure to play and exercise, doing something you enjoy.

Don't assume everyone is as nice as you. Get to know someone before you run too far away with them.

Stop and smell the... well, I recommend you smell everything.

Turn around from time to time and look behind you. The progress is inspiring, and the view may surprise you. (And besides, there might be some other dogs following your lead.)

If you're ever in trouble, it's best to stay quiet and keep a low profile.

Discover the wonder and awe every day.

Be proactive. (Sit before you're told and you might get a treat!)

Anticipate the next fun thing you might get to do.

Practice every day, being the dog you want to be.

Don't jump on people. They hardly ever like it.

Crotch sniffing is best left to dogs.

Respect older dogs and dogs of other cultures.

Forgiveness is usually as good for you as it is for the other person.

It's ok to get mad but don't let it stay too long.

Strive to be good, but remember everydog makes mistakes, so don't be too hard on yourself. Remember: you're only canine!

Be thrilled about something every day.

The world is not necessarily fair, so don't set yourself up for unrealistic expectations.

But you can trust that the Universe provides what you need. My food bowl is constantly and miraculously replenished.

Dig it all.

Be grateful. My success comes from living in a state of gratitude.

Be loyal to your friends and those who feed you.

Focus on your dreams - not your nightmares.

Live in the present. You can have joy in the moment, or lose it by worrying about the past or future.

Take education seriously. I've been to two obedience schools, but I still have a lot to learn.

Respect cats and other creatures different from you.

Take time out for a nap whenever possible.

Same goes for stretching. Do it early and often.

Even though you might know lots of tricks, remember there is always great mystery and discovery still ahead.

Size and looks mean nothing compared to what's in your heart.

Share a frisbee with a dog who might be less fortunate.

Try to cope with problems in a way that doesn't get you in trouble. My personal vice is socks, but whatever it is, don't overdo it!

Appreciate the unexpected pleasures (like the cheese that falls on the floor when you-know-who is cooking.)

Drink plenty of water, but take my advice and don't chew the hose.

Similarly, it's ok to think big, but just say no to car chasing.

Practice impulse control.

First impressions are tricky. Everyone who comes to your door is not the mail carrier.

Perhaps we should consider: what is it about the mail carrier, and if s/he didn't deliver the mail, who would?

Take your heartworm medicine, but practice moderation in all drugs.

Visit the vet annually, and be sure he or she has education, common sense, and a cookie jar.

Take a bath at least once or twice a month, whether you need to or not.

Be open to new experiences, but take it from me: never, ever jump out of you-know-who's car when she's driving.

In my experience, if you focus on something long enough, it may eventually be yours. So choose your thoughts!

Know when to be humble and polite. Obnoxious dogs are rarely invited back.

Take your guard job seriously, but remember humans value peace and quiet, for some reason.

Surround yourself with a healthy pack.

Dig it all and have fun.

It's a mistake to assume everyone thinks like you do.

Here's an important one: "No" means "no".

Kindness will get you more friends than a loud bark.

Show your love every chance you get, including loving your self. Maybe there's something to this inner pup stuff.

Love unabashedly and appreciate the love you're offered. It is truly the answer.

You're beautiful just the way you are. Don't let anyone tell you differently.

Support the ASPCA

We all get old, so treat elders with respect and dignity.

Ask for what you need.

No need to fear death; dying is part of living.

Live life fully, love with all your heart, forgive daily, and let this be your legacy.

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