Leash in right hand...check.
Treats in left hand...check.
It's time for another (and usually pleasant) walk. We've come a long way since last summer. Ten weeks spent in dog obedience classes benefited all.
"Chloe...With Me", I say cheerfully. She walks by my side and looks up. I praise and give her a treat.
There are three R's for a successful walk:
Relationship. Walking together requires time, and develops Chloe's confidence and trust in me as pack leader. Because we have a relationship, Chloe recognizes my voice. She knows my commands. When she follows instructions, I enjoy giving her treats.
Range. A leash and a training collar set limits on how far Chloe can move. Sometimes, she pulls ahead, attempting to determine the direction we should go. Often, she tries to set our pace as well. When Chloe forges ahead, I repeat the "With Me" command. She refocuses and returns to my side.
Many distractions lure Chloe away from me, such as chasing cats or squirrels - all very good things for dogs to do. But chasing after distractions can also be dangerous- she could get hit by a vehicle, or attacked by an off-leash dog. Her leash and training collar determine her range...all for her protection.
Reward. Chloe is praised and rewarded for swift compliance. A Purina brand "Moist & Meaty" morsel is her blessing for obedience.
To develop a relationship with God, I spend time getting to know Him. The Lord provided His Word, The Bible, to help me know and understand His will. His commands, or boundaries, are for my benefit, not my destruction. The psalmist wrote, "Sustain me according to Your word, that I may live..." Psalm 119:116 (NAS). God blesses my obedience.
The difference between me and Chloe is choice. Chloe is not in control. She is not allowed to go her own way. I, however, may or may not choose to hear and obey my Master's voice. I have the choice to walk with Him, or run away, chasing the temporary distractions of this world. I pray I will daily remain close and under His loving protection, enjoying the rewards of obedience.
What advice do you have for a "successful walk"?
Just a Closer Walk with Thee performed by Patsy Cline. I chose this song because it reminded me of my grandfather. He loved to sing songs of the church.
P.S. Chloe turned a year old on Jan 27.
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