[yorkietalkjilly]

Often those people who use the phrase "just dogs" are the ones who see dogs as situational companions and their continued existence in the family is based solely on convenience. Once the dog needs extra care, money spent on it for a health problem or develops a behavioral problem of any kind, just turn it out or drop it by the shelter and move on. That is the attitude of so many dog owners who are not true dog lovers and those same type of people are largely responsible for the disgrace of the millions of stray/abused and neglected dogs in this country. Dogs are on just about equal par with goldfish in their minds and they will usually never advance much in their attitudes throughout their lives. Most of them are just missing the "dog gene" that dog lovers have and have no clue what dogs can be really like as friends, companions and true family members. And if you try to explain your relationship with your dog to them or why he is so important in your life, they look at you as if you just sprouted an eggplant from your forehead. They don't and will never get it.

So, try not to let those people concern you and love and enjoy your dog to the hilt. You, a true dog lover, are the fortunate one - your life enriched beyond measure by the treasure of feelings and experiences your dog and you share now and forever.