My Black Dog By Cara Aiken
‘My Black Dog’ came to exist from a Last summer, I happened to story I would like to share with you. stumble across this forlorn looking puppy. I feel incredibly honoured Once upon a time, a long time ago, that she ‘chose’ me to become her Winston Churchill coined the phrase owner. This was most certainly not a ‘Black Dog’ to describe the planned purchase, but she gave me debilitating bouts of depression he absolutely no choice in the matter. experienced for much of his life. I do not k now how or why this happened, but it did. Twelve years ago, I owned a dog called Yanni. She was my very best She has no particular breed, she is friend and confidante. We went one on her own, but I refer to her as everywhere together, she knew all a ‘Daisy Doodle’ who has most my secrets and dreams, we loved certainly been sent from heaven. each other unconditionally and to be perfectly honest, she was the only And this is where it all begins. ‘person’ I trusted to remain by my side through thick and thin. She lost her life in front of my very own eyes, at the hands of an unprovoked attack by two other dogs during one of our many pleasurable walks together. Simultaneously, I too died that day as my whole world came crashing down. ‘Black Dog’ entered my life with great force, and to this day, continues to lurk in the sidelines, jumping out on me when least expected.
Meet Daisy.
The finest breed in the world.
When Black Dog depletes my energy and the ability to leave the safety of my home ...
Daisy is always there looking longingly at her lead, dressed in her pink ugg boots, gently encouraging me to challenge my obstacles and to walk her.
Daisy will not allow the weather to interfere with her exercise.
She’ll look pleadingly at me and offer the encouragement I need to brave the harsh elements.
When Black Dog leaves me feeling worn to a frazzle but restless and unsettled ‌.
Daisy has taught me to put my feet up and take some time out.
When Black Dog is lurking, and I feel as though no one is listening to me ...
Daisy is all ears.
Black dog can give me tunnel vision – I am stuck in a rut with no escape from persistent negative thoughts ...
Daisy has taught me how to think outside of the box.
Black Dog can steal my appetite and take away the enjoyment of a meal.
Daisy has become my perfect dinner date.
Daisy has completely turned my life around. She has brought me so much pleasure. She has filled my life with laughter. I now understand why Daisy Doodles chose me to become her owner ... To prove to me that what I was actually lacking in my life was ... ‘My Black Dog.’