In a touching video that has resonated with many dog owners, a mother shares a gentle pep talk with her Goldendoodle, Gemma, who serves as her service dog. This charming moment highlights the unique bond between pets and their owners, emphasizing the role of dogs in our lives.
The Role of the Watchful Dog
Dogs are known for their keen observational skills, often taking on the role of vigilant sentinels in their homes. Many pet owners can relate to the experience of their dogs watching the world from a window, barking at every passerby as if it’s their duty to keep the household informed. This is certainly the case for one dog owner whose pup is particularly vigilant, barking at every Amazon delivery truck, school bus, and fellow dog walker that crosses their path.
A New Approach to Dog Behavior
However, this owner is considering a different strategy inspired by another dog mom’s recent video. On September 26, user @giulsandgemma shared a heartwarming clip of her addressing Gemma, helping her understand that other dogs are simply enjoying their walks just as they do. “Explaining to my dog that dogs are allowed to go for a walkie by our house like we go on walkies by their houses,” she captioned the video.
In the clip, Gemma and her mom sit by the window as Mom gently talks her through the scenario. “He just wants to go for a walkie. Do you think you can be okay with that?” she asks, prompting an adorable, silent response from Gemma, who either absorbs the information or quietly disagrees.
This relatable interaction struck a chord with other dog parents, with one commenting on the necessity of discussing neighborhood etiquette with their own pets. They humorously noted that their nieces had turned this lesson into a command, yelling “GOOD NEIGHBOR” whenever a dog was being overly sassy.
Gemma’s Important Role as a Service Dog
While Gemma may be a bit nosy, it’s essential to recognize that she has a significant responsibility beyond barking at passing dogs. In another video, her owner explains that Gemma is a POTS Alert Dog, providing vital support due to her mother’s condition known as Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). This condition causes her heart rate to spike and blood pressure to drop, sometimes leading to fainting spells.
Gemma is trained to detect changes in her mother’s heart rate and blood pressure before she feels them herself. This early warning system allows her to sit or lie down, preventing injuries from falls.
The Power of the Human-Dog Bond
The extraordinary capabilities of service dogs like Gemma highlight the invaluable bond between humans and their pets. These relationships not only provide companionship but also essential support for those with medical needs. It’s heartwarming to see how a simple conversation can embody the love and understanding shared between a dog and its owner, reminding us all of the special roles our furry friends play in our lives.
