This is a place to talk about dogs, our connection to them, and how we can use this connection to help foster the relationship with them we desire. Why is it so important to talk about our relationship with dogs to understand how to work with them? Because when we talk about dogs, we're really talking about ourselves.

Saturday, September 17, 2011

Blog Has Moved!

Just want to let you know, that I've moved this blog here:


So to keep up to date on what's going on, come on by and visit.

See you there!

Thursday, September 8, 2011

Protecting That Which Matters Most



In The Matrix Reloaded, there is a scene when Neo, the story's main protagonist, meets Seraph, the protector and guardian of the Oracle. The scene unfolds like this:

Seraph: You seek the Oracle.

Neo: Who are you?

Seraph: I am Seraph. I can take you to her. But first, I must apologize.

Neo: For what?

Seraph: For this.

At this point Seraph attacks Neo and a fight ensues between them. And just as quickly as it had begun, it stops, and the conversation continues:

Seraph: The Oracle has many enemies, I had to be sure.

Neo: Of what?

Seraph: That you were The One.

Neo: You could've just asked.

Seraph: You do not truly know someone until you fight them.

So what does this scene and dialogue from a movie have to do with dogs? A lot.

Let me start by saying that NDT isn't for the weak of heart. To fully commit to the process requires strength of heart and character, and a readiness to explore the uncharted regions of the emotional landscape of both your dog and yourself. Because once you open up the Pandora's Box of unresolved emotion that lives in the heart of your dog, there is no going back.

This process isn't about dog training, or even relationship building. It's about truth. Finding and uncovering the deep hidden truths that are cloaked under the surface of our personalities. Personality is a lie. It's a well-intended lie, but it is still a lie. And no one can see through that lie as easily as your dog. The truth, YOUR truth, lies inside him, ready and waiting to be discovered. But you have to be ready to fight for it.

After the fight is over, Seraph takes Neo to the Oracle, and Neo asks him:

Neo: Are you a programmer? (Seraph shakes his head no)

Neo: Then what are you?

Seraph: (pauses then faces Neo) I protect that which matters most.

Your dog is your Seraph. He protects and keeps safe that which matters most. That is his role, and as all dogs do, he takes on that role with relentless passion and commitment. The problem is that we often misread and misunderstand his passion, believing that he is the one who needs to change. But it is us who need to change. It is us who need to embrace and embody his passion and fire. His commitment and determination to protect that which is sacred. To protect that which matters most. Your heart.