Paris Hilton And What We Can Learn From Our Pets

How amazing are the dogs that save their owner's lives by sounding the alarm or even calling 911? There are so many extraordinary stories about pets, like dogs that guide the blind, provide comfort to the sick, protect us, or help us go for walks. Then there is the cat who lived in a nursing home we volunteered in. It would always go to lie with someone shortly before they died. The cat knew before the doctors did.

Our friend Gina told us how her husband, Joseph, had a heart attack and died in their living room. When she returned from the hospital, Blackie, their dog, had taken one of Joseph's dirty shirts from the laundry basket and was lying on it in exactly the same place where Joseph had died.

Paris Hilton has 13 dogs that live in their own mansion; we see many celebrities who parade around with their dogs in designer bags; or we hear of heiresses leaving millions of dollars for their pets' upkeep. What is it that bonds people so deeply with their animals? Why do some say that they love their pets more than they do humans? Is it the unconditional love that animals appear to have for their owners?

The communication with humans runs deep. Friend Biologist Rupert Sheldrake has been featured in a documentary and written extensively on how, for instance, many dogs know the moment when their owner has left the office and the dog is waiting, ready to greet them at the front door when they return, often as much as an hour later.

We don't think our two cats would be as tuned in as they are far too self-absorbed, but they do keep us very entertained. This morning, Rani (little queen) apparently told Ed that she wanted to go swimming at the reservoir and so she needed us to get her a bikini, and would it be alright if she went with a friend or did she have to go with us the first time? Meanwhile Raji (little king) apparently wants to train as a pilot and needs us to pay for him to go to Aviation School. They have taught us not to take ourselves too seriously!

Due to a past history of not having an easy time with cats, Ed had told Deb that he was allergic to them. Then, a few years ago, we were keynote workshop leaders in Sweden at the No Mind Festival, and the program ended with firewalking. After Ed walked on the hot coals all his fears dissolved and, astonishingly, his first thought was to get a kitten. We came home and Raji was waiting for us at the Humane Society. A few months later Rani found her way to us, and we all, including Raji, immediately fell in love with her.

We have learned how dogs need masters and cats needs slaves, or dogs look up while cats look down. But what do our pets teach us? As animals are immediate, present, unconditional, forgiving, and can bring tremendous healing, so the lessons are endless.

Waylon Lewis, publisher of ElephantJournal.com and a fellow HuffPo blogger, told us about his mutt, Redford. "I have an issue with temper tantrums and just being a real jerk. For generations my family has had problems with anger and inappropriate behavior with younger family members. When Redford does something wrong or inappropriate there is no way I can blame him as he is entirely innocent and doesn't understand my upsetness. In this way he is a perfect mirror for my aggression and makes me realize it is my issue and not his. Whatever he goes through it passes very quickly; he is very patient with me and immediately forgiving. So he is really taming and training me!"

Guillermo Romero agreed with how healing a pet can be when he told us: "Our dog came to us from the streets in Mexico and decided to stay with us. It has been over five years now. He became a profoundly healing asset when we lived with young people with special needs. It was as if his own background enabled him to understand these beings even more deeply than we did."

Animals give us companionship: Deb's cat Ziggy used to accompany her on walks up the hill behind their house and would sit with her at the top gazing over the valley below. And they give without judgment or discrimination. This can teach us to become both more trusting and more loving ourselves.

Roberto Arjona, Chief Executive of the Rancho La Puerta Fitness Resort and Spa, told us how: "When I met my future wife she already had Samson, who slept each night on her bed. This was a very different scenario than I was used to! But I was surprised to find that, after a few months, I not only came to love Samson but that he was more than welcome on the bed. I have learnt from him that I can fearlessly accept new situations. In the process he has taught me to trust myself and others more deeply."

Animals live in the present moment; they do not cling to the past or to hidden grudges. Filmmaker Ken Green's beautiful lovebird Monet has no self-consciousnesses. "He is totally himself with a purity and directness, living in the moment and clearly expecting that from me as well. He is a teaching of nowness and brings that to anyone who is willing to join him in the present moment."

A dog whisperer told Waylon that almost any problem with an animal means that it needs more exercise, more discipline, and then more affection. Which sounds pretty similar to how to deal with our own problems. Whether we are Paris Hilton or not, we all feel better after working out, when we address our addictions, and when we are loved!

What have you learned from your pet? We would love to hear your stories. Leave a comment below. You can receive notice of our blogs every Thursday by checking Become a Fan at the top.

Ed and Deb Shapiro's new book, BE THE CHANGE, How Meditation Can Transform You And The World, forewords by the Dalai Lama and Robert Thurman, with contributors such as Marianne Williamson, astronaut Edgar Mitchell, Byron Katie, Michael Beckwith, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Jane Fonda, Jack Kornfield, Ellen Burstyn, Ed Begley, Dean Ornish, Gangaji, Russell Bishop, Andrew Cohen and others, will be published November 3rd 2009 by Sterling Ethos.

Deb is the author of the award-winning book YOUR BODY SPEAKS YOUR MIND. Ed and Deb are the authors of over 15 books, and lead meditation retreats and workshops. They are corporate consultants, and the creators of Chillout daily inspirational text messages on Sprint cell phones. See: www.EdandDebShapiro.com

Follow Ed and Deb Shapiro on Twitter: www.twitter.com/raniraji

Comments

[JeanRR]

My dogs have always been part of my life. My son grew up with dogs, learning to walk while holding on to our AmStaffs's collar. But it looks as if my grandchildren will not have the same benefits. The radical Animals Rights groups like PETA and HSUS are becoming more and more successful in their drive to eliminate pets from our society and our lives. This year, they managed to get mandatory spay/neuter bills introduced into nearly every state legislature. When bills like this pass, where is the next generation of pets going to come from? If there is a next generation at all, it will come from puppy mills in places like Eastern Europe because the responsible, caring, hobby breeders in this country are all gone. Public education has led to widespread spay/neuter of pets and education combined with low cost clinics will continue to have success. The only reason for mandatory spay/neuter laws to eliminate pets. As Wayne Pacelle of HSUS said "One generation then out."

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Jean Thanks for your comment and your story

Education is the best means to deal with all this

Treasure yourself,

Ed

[Waylon Lewis - Huffpost Blogger]

For any new pet owners (I suggest you rescue, America puts to "sleep" 8 million cats and dogs each year, 'cause to many of us buy from pet stores instead of going to local Humane Society)...I suggest you rent The Dog Whisperer on Netflix or from local video store. Or you can watch him on youtube...he taught be everything about how to be patient, gentle, firm, a good master and a good friend...to my best friend. http://www.elephantjournal.com/2008/09/aggressive-dog-watch-this-dog-whisperer-taught-me-how-to-raise-my-pup/

Ed, Deb, you're the best! I love this article, it's a treasure and a great reminder that the greatest "gurus" on the spiritual path that is our daily life may be our humble, furry friends!

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hey Way - Great to hear from you and thanks for sharing your important and compassionate views

I do have to repeat what you just said

For any new pet owners (I suggest you rescue, America puts to "sleep" 8 million cats and dogs each year, 'cause to many of us buy from pet stores instead of going to local Humane Society)...I suggest you rent The Dog Whisperer on Netflix or from local video store. Or you can watch him on youtube...he taught be everything about how to be patient, gentle, firm, a good master and a good friend...to my best friend. http://www.elephantjournal.com/2008/09/aggressive-dog-watch-this-dog-whisperer-taught-me-how-to-raise-my-pup/

It was great to interview for this blog about Redford you super dog

Big Love,

Ed

[OKSunny]

I am an avid believer in rescuing animals from the streets. Both my cat (found at 12 weeks old) & dog (found at 5-6months old) were found roaming around OKC, OK. They were both underweight, sickly, and the dog has lasting behavior issues due to neglect/abuse?

What they have taught me is that when you do something nice for someone (animal or human) you will get paid back hundredfold. It took about a year for my dog (she's 2.5 now) to completely trust me and now I have NO DOUBT she would give her life for me. The cat, not so sure. Lol!

People always talk about how amazing the animals that commit some heroic feat for their masters' are; I guarantee you that it is usually always the dog/cat that was rescued and loved unconditionally. They know it when you save their lives, they REALLY do and they appreciate you and the life you provide for them so much.

Please rescue an animal from the street. They will probably have behavioral/physical issues but it's worth it and an added benefit of a "street walker" is that it shows your human kids how to be compassionate for another living creature--hard to do when bought

To see pictures of my "kids"

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc227/devony30/January2008142.jpg
http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc227/devony30/August2007012-1.jpg

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

OKSunny - Thanks for your comment and for sharing I love what you say...first I need to say...Love the * couch potato kids * great photo.

I would like to repeat what you wrote it is soooo spot on!

I am an avid believer in rescuing animals from the streets. Both my cat (found at 12 weeks old) & dog (found at 5-6months old) were found roaming around OKC, OK. They were both underweight, sickly, and the dog has lasting behavior issues due to neglect/abuse?

What they have taught me is that when you do something nice for someone (animal or human) you will get paid back hundredfold. It took about a year for my dog (she's 2.5 now) to completely trust me and now I have NO DOUBT she would give her life for me. The cat, not so sure. Lol!
Please rescue an animal from the street. They will probably have behavioral/physical issues but it's worth it and an added benefit of a "street walker" is that it shows your human kids how to be compassionate for another living creature--hard to do when bought

To see pictures of my "kids"

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc227/devony30/January2008142.jpg

[DangTang]

It is so nice to hear other people and their animal stories. I've had many animals throughout my life and I know I'll have many more.

My boyfriend doesn't understand but to me, my pets are my family and my friends. My cats growing up were two brothers, each with their own personality. My Tigger passed away a few years ago at Christmas after having diabetes for many years. It was seen by many as a hassle to care for him but it was all worth it to me. I had moved away and on my way home for Christmas my dad called in between flights to let me know that Tigger wasn't looking good and probably wouldn't make it until I got home hours later. I still feel in my heart that he knew I would be home because he hung on until I made it and I was able to say my goodbyes. I'm sad that he's gone and even now it tears me up but I wouldn't trade it for anything.

My cat now, Casanova or Nova for short, is full of life and wonder. I've had him since he was 8 weeks old and we have grown and experienced much together. It was fun for me to see how he was when my boyfriend first moved in but how he's welcomed another man in the house and, oddly, it has made me happier to know that.

Thank you for sharing your memories!

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

DangTang- Thanks for your comment and sharing your story of Tigger ... and now Nova

Tears rolled down my cheeks as I rea about Tigger and you...how he waited for you to come home. Sometimes I think I am so wise and understand the teachings of attachement etc. and then I feel that I couldn't bear anything happening to Raji and Rani our to kttycats. But it is ok to feel..to ffel pain and loss and to hold it all in your heart.

Give Nova a hug for me.

Treasure yourself,

Ed

[Sunshine85]

My dogs Scarlet ( a 90 pound lab / pitbull mix) and Diamond ( 15 pound Pug ), showed me that everyone is different but that we all deserver to be loved the same. They are so cool together. Diamond is the boss! Scarlet is the buddy! They are best friends!

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi Sushine - Hi Scarlet - Hi Diamond - Thanks for your comment

If everyone understood this we would have a peaceful world

Treasure yourself,

Ed

[LLisaLL]

Well said – thank you!

Our family got a kitten from the local shelter after our Bouvier de Flanders passed away. Mr Waffle hadn't been with us 24 hours when we knew he was sick. He had an upper respiratory infection. We nursed him for a couple of weeks before he improved and we could see he would survive. (It's a real talent to put drops in a cat's nose.) Never having owned a cat before, we were intrigued by his cat-like behaviors and regularly googled what they might mean. We're very fond of his tail. It exhibits all sorts of feelings while the rest of him lies motionless. He eats from the middle of his bowl and will never completely empty it before deciding it needs to be refilled. He pushes it around, then looks up with his angel face and makes you feel incredibly guilty that you’re depriving him. I'm told that when I leave the house, he loudly protests my departure. And he's a first-rate greeter, especially when he wakes up. He'll go from person to person to say hi as if he’s just returned from a long journey. And, boy does he have the market cornered on sleep. What our family has found with the additional of Mr Waffle goes back to your post. He’s taught us to relate to him with a different tempo. The tune is just as delightful, but it’s got its own unique arrangement.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi LLisaLL - much appreciate you comment and wonderful writing

I feel you have a talent with words

Mr. Waffle sounds like Raji/Rani they must have been family in a past life (hahaha)

Thank you for sharing your story,

Joyfully,

Ed

[soundheals]

Pets. Pets. Pets! All pets are special, but usually a only few are REALLY special. As though they have somehow incarnated from the other side at your special time of need. And we who receive them as a friends and guides during this time know they are something else besides the four footed (or whatever) beings they have manifested as on this planet. The stories I could tell you about my dog Spirit, who materialized in the middle of the night when I returned from my mother's funeral many years ago......

Blessings!

Jonathan

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi Jonathan G - Grammy nominated Sound Master-

Great story and true about pets

Deb and I were just out on our back deck and suddenly in a tree was Rani high up (very high) chasing bluebirds.. it was freaky as it was really too high to imagine.. we waited patiently as she eventually climbed down.
This was my first such encounter

Love,

Ed

[allcreaturesareone]

Ed and Deb:
Thank you for this beautiful post that speaks to my heart. The animal companions who share my life are my most precious gift; I love them with everything that I am. Won't you join me in changing the language we use when we talk about our friends; it's a subtle difference, but it sets a completely different tone for how we view them, and thus how we treat them:

"Rather than refer to ourselves or others as "owners" of animals we share our lives with, we now refer to ourselves and others as "guardians" of our animal friends and to animals as "he" or "she" rather than "it."

http://www.idausa.org/

Thank you for your big hearts.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

allcreaturesareone --Thank you! WONDERFUL ...YESSSSSSSS ..this is so special

Most precious gift Yeesss my * animal companions * Raji & Rani are just that...I repeat s this is a joy:

Won't you join me in changing the language we use when we talk about our friends; it's a subtle difference, but it sets a completely different tone for how we view them, and thus how we treat them

:"Rather than refer to ourselves or others as "owners" of animals we share our lives with, we now refer to ourselves and others as "guardians" of our animal friends and to animals as "he" or "she" rather than "it."

http://www.idausa.org/

You are welcome...de nada

Thank you for your big heart!

Ed & Deb

[Pema]

to me there my kids...and i love the way you put things...they are my joy. love isnt bound by the amount of legs the one you love has.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

ditto!

[Eli Davidson - Huffpost Blogger]

OMG! (I had to get a bit of Paris Hilton in there.)

My life is made so much better because of my precious cat, Cleopatra Jones. She is one of the most eloquent animals on the planet. We often have lengthy discussions about love, life and the value of catnip.

Thank you once again for sharing in your magnificent way!
Eli

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi gorgeous Eli - Catnip Raji and Rani LOVE catnip... they are so cute how they roll in it

You are one of the most loving people in the HP community.

I feel lucky to have you in my life.

You are my soul sister,

Ed

[MsMandy]

Love this post! I am a teacher, and there is nothing better after a long day than coming home to my 7, yes 7, animals. We have 4 cats, all of whom have wonderfully different personalities, and 3 dogs, 2 were rescues and a new addition, a white German Shepherd puppy for my son. I have been an animal person my whole life. They are truly the best friends possible; animals give no judgement, only love and fun. I am proud to be that "crazy pet lady"! Thank you, again, for writing this piece.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

MsMandy - Thank you for your comment -- it's people like you that maes blogging wonderful

WOW 7 pets..it's a lucky #

We just visited in England and stayed on a farm with our agent who has 4 dogs.. it was so cool..I felt like I was in another world...an animal world..I loved it!

Blessings,

Ed

PS I could easily live with many pets

[AndiG]

The uncontitional love from our pets is truly a gift and a treasure...it seems as though they are totally non- judgemental and hold us in the highest of light with a purity of spirit unmatched...I've often heard the words something like "I wish I could be the person my dog thinks I am!!"
Love to you both!

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Sweet andiG- It is so wondrful to hear from you and lucky you live in the next house from us- cause you take care of Raji and Rani ..your love is so pure

Rani came home the other day and told us how she loves peeking in your garden door and seeing you.

I love that statement: "I wish I could be the person my dog thinks I am!!"

Big Hugs,

Ed

[AndiG]

Oh... I was so hoping that Rani was enjoying our garden!!! One of these days she will just have to come in for tea!!! LOVE YOU

[CaveatMagnusFrater]

Hie AndiG

I love your quote, it's a worthy goal. Thanks for putting it out there for everyone to read.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

ditto the quote is great

"I wish I could be the person my dog thinks I am!!"

wondeful

[AsaOne]

All animals have something to teach us if we open to the process. I had just moved into the woods, a purposeful life-changing decision. I didn't know how to "be" in the natural setting and had been meditating on this. One day I was driving my pick-up truck home when out of the thick brush along the side of the road a big, broad, black head emerged. I had to stop the truck and it was inches from the front bumper. As it slowly began to cross the road, I was transfixed! I went along with it. It owned it's space, never looked around or showed any signs of my presence. However, I realized it was keenly aware of everything. It taught me how to "be" not only in the woods but in my daily life as well. This was a big, long, beautiful panther. The lesson is this: I learned how to create my own space and walk fearlessly within it. I will always be grateful.

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

AsaOne- WOW great story

Thanks for your comment.. I love living in seclusion

We live away from the maddening crowd as well ... one day we looked out of the window and a big nose pointed out from the trees ..deb thought what a big nose for a dog

it was a bear

Enjoy the journey,

Ed

[Kari Henley - Huffpost Blogger]

With the sad news of Farrah and MIchael, I am sure many instinctively grab their pets for some much needed comfort!
I waited a long time to get a family dog- sure the hassle was going to be too much. Of course, she is a light of love and a groundstone for all the kids.
I agree the connection with animals is profound, and a blessing!
Thanks for another great one!
kari

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi luv sweet Kari - It's been a shocking 24 hours with Farrah and then Michael Jackson who was deeply invollved with animals.

I love our cats Raji & Rani and know someday Debs and I will have a doggy.

Love your contribution to the HP/living section

YOU SHINE,

Big Love,

Ed

[Pema]

yes micheals neverland ranch had let the animals get into such a horrible condition that the county had to come out. after the last trial, animals were not getting fed or water , some were very sick. it was in the news in so cali. i was spo upset he did that, just left neverland with no care set up for them... he was crusing comfortably in la jolla at ron burkles house on the shore. while the cries of hungry animals were ignored by him and his family.
i am really surprised you didnt know this.

[RoadCrossingChicken]

Our dog, Boo Radley, come to our home from a rescue shelter. He is just a sweetie pie! He weighs about 11 pounds and I swear 10 pounds of that is love!

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi RCC - Great to hear from you

Hi Boo Radley could you come over to our house

All You Need Is Love

The Beattles got it right,

Big Love,

Ed

[Dr. Judith Rich - Huffpost Blogger]

My all time favorite pet was a St. Bernard named "Madam". She was my constant companion and such a comfort to me at a difficult time in my life, when I was going through a divorce.

Just as my whole life was turning upside down, Madam, who didn't like other dogs, got out of the yard, attacked and almost killed a Great Dane who lived in the neighborhood. We were advised by our vet that she had to be put down. It was an even bigger heart break for me than the ending of the marriage!

I think Madam "knew" it was time for me to let her go and get on with a new life. At least, that's what I make up about this event in my life.

When Madam died, I put her in charge of sunsets. That night was the most beautiful sunset I'd ever seen. That was 20 years ago. To this day, when I see a beautiful sunset, I send a prayer of love and thanks to my sweet girl.

The death of Michael Jackson, reported just now, reminds me of how fragile life is. Also Farrah Fawcett. May their souls rest in peace.

Love to you,
Judith

[Ed and Deb Shapiro - Huffpost Blogger]

Hi Judith wow wow ...Michael Jackson's dead...I too feel the impact on how fragile life is... it is a quickie.. we really have to treasure each moment an appreciate this world as a gift.

Madam really must have loved you... because we all love our Judith.. you open my heart and it is a joy

to know you the way I do is sooooo interesting it is the knew world of friendship .. inter-friends ..that's what I will call the new way people connect. You are my first inter-friend

Big Love, dear inter-friend

Ed