The Dog That Taught me so Much

Summary

The text recounts the author's experiences and bonding moments with a playful dog named Zak, whom they grew close to despite initial fears and without formal ownership.

Abstract

The author shares a personal story about their relationship with a dog named Zak, detailing how they overcame a fear of dogs and formed a deep connection. Zak, a well-trained and always excited dog, particularly enjoyed walks on the "beach," a word that would instantly perk him up. The author reflects on their time together, including walks, desert excursions, and even nursing hangovers, emphasizing that Zak taught them a great deal. The narrative is part of a series inspired by Mary Chang's writing prompt about "Pet People," which encourages others to share their own pet stories. The author invites readers to join their email list or Medium membership for more stories.

Opinions

The author initially had a fear of dogs but grew to appreciate and enjoy the company of Zak.
Zak is portrayed as a joyful, well-trained dog who did not need a leash and enjoyed the beach and desert excursions.
The author expresses a sense of loss and fondness, stating "Buddy, I miss you," indicating a strong emotional bond with Zak.
The author views Zak not just as a pet but as a companion who shared significant experiences, including getting over hangovers together.
The author is motivated to continue sharing stories about their experiences with pets they never owned, suggesting a therapeutic or reflective aspect to writing about these relationships.
There is an implicit endorsement of the Medium platform, as the author suggests readers sign up for a membership to access more stories, including their own.

Come with me. There’s something fun!

It was a process of getting to know this playful dog. Always happy. Always excited and for sure always up for a walk on the “beach”. I wasn’t allowed to use the word “beach” in conversations with my boss unless I would actually take Zak for a walk. He knew that word. All too well.

This well-trained dog didn’t have to be on a leash which made it easier for me to keep my distance from him while I was still afraid of dogs and skeptical of this creature.

He would make sure I’d follow him and turned his head every now and then.

This picture was taken with the ocean on my back facing the dunes in the background.

Buddy, I miss you.

Mary Chang asked us to share our pet stories in the March writing prompt. While this dog never really belonged to me, he and I grew together. We went on several excursions into the desert, cured out our hangovers together (this dog gets serious hangovers from partying all night), and became more than friends.

I decided to make a series out of this prompt because I got more stories to tell and experiences to share even though I never owned a pet.

This is the writing prompt if you would like to take part in it as well:

More of the series presenting my relationship with pets I never owned…

Join my email list here if you would like to read more photo essays or sign up for the Medium membership to receive unlimited access to my and other writer’s stories out here (I will receive a commission fee in return).

WRITING PROMPT RESPONSE

The Dog That Taught me so Much

March Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Pet People”

Come with me. There’s something fun!

Pet People: March Prompt

March Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Pet People”

“You’re Not Going Anywhere Without Me”

March Six Word Photo Story Challenge: “Pet People”