Dogs vs Cars: The Unmatched Joy of Companionship
When it comes to companionship, choosing between a dog and a car can be a tough decision. Personally, I would choose a dog over a new car any day. While a car can provide transportation, it cannot offer the emotional bond and unconditional love that a dog can. In this article, I will explain why the choice of a dog over a car is a no-brainer for my household.
The Importance of Dogs in My Life
Growing up, I have always been an avid dog lover. My attachment to dogs goes back to a surprising origin - I even remember sleeping in my black lab’s legs as a baby! In 68 years, I have had a total of 10 dogs, most of which were rescues. Only two were pure breeds, but even they faced health issues requiring expensive treatments for their entire life.
Besides adopting and rescuing several dogs, I have also tried to get dogs from puppy mills. The key motivation behind this is to rescue dogs from the miserable and brutal cage lifestyle they often inherit. These dogs, who have spent at least 5 to 10 years in the system, express immense gratitude for the love and care they receive. It’s invaluable to see these furry beings appreciate the simple pleasures in life - walks, cuddle time, grooming, good food, vet visits, and the freedom to lead their best years.
While it may not be a tangible benefit, the love and affection a dog provides truly cannot be matched. A car, on the other hand, is nothing but a cold, impersonal machine. My dogs give me kisses, sweet looks, and the warmth of their company, something a car can never replicate.
Advantages of Having a Dog
While a car can be a reliable mode of transportation, it requires no daily attention or emotional investment. However, my current preference leans towards a dog for several reasons. A dog is a living, breathing, feeling creature who needs care, attention, and love on a daily basis. Ignoring a dog can constitute cruelty, and it’s a responsibility I take seriously.
Traveling with a dog, especially when I have plans to drive across the USA, has its own advantages. Boarding pets during travel can be costly and stressful. For instance, this year, I intend to travel a lot, yet I have concerns about our dogs being boarded. The usual vet calls during trips for medical emergencies can significantly increase costs. Our 13-year-old female dog is particularly anxious about being boarded and often gets diarrhea, requiring medication. This can add an extra financial burden to our travels.
For years, my husband and I have made it a point to own various pets. However, my husband has sometimes used their presence as an excuse to avoid traveling. I, on the other hand, have a strong desire to explore the USA and other places around the world. Having to leave our pets behind for extended periods can be emotionally challenging. The memories of our pets, such as the one mauled by a pit bull and the one who passed just over a year ago, fill my husband with grief, emphasizing the importance of having a reliable companion who stays by our side.
The Practical Benefits of a Car
Many might argue in favor of cars due to their practicality. Cars indeed offer the convenience of taking us where we need to go, particularly when it comes to long-distance travel. However, there are instances where a dog’s presence can add significant value. For example, if our car breaks down, we can either fix it or get a new one without too much hassle. But a similar situation with a dog might lead to emotional turmoil, as we invest time and resources in their well-being and happiness.
In conclusion, while cars are important for their transportation capabilities, dogs are essential for their companionship, emotional support, and their unwavering love. Both have their pros and cons, but for me, the joy and companionship that a dog provides cannot be beat.