Chapter 1: The Care We Give Our Pets

When it comes to our furry companions, we often go above and beyond to ensure their happiness and health. But why don't we extend the same level of care to ourselves?

When you’re out and about, I bet you always think about your dog waiting for you at home. You make sure to walk your dog regularly and feed it only the best meals.

You’ve likely researched whether raw or cooked food is best for your pet, and you would never dream of serving your beloved dog a can of cheap dog food—even if you might be having a quick meal yourself.

But do you take the same time and effort to nourish yourself? Would you ever skip a meal for your dog or put it on a diet without breakfast? Most likely not. So, why do we often neglect our own needs?

Do you ever find yourself just pouring a bowl of cereal for your dog because you're too tired to prepare a proper dinner? I suspect the answer is no. So why not prioritize your own meals with the same dedication?

Think about it: you don’t give your dog unhealthy snacks like chips or chocolate. This isn’t just because you know it’s bad for them; it’s also a reminder that these foods aren't beneficial for you, either.

When you watch a movie, do you offer your dog treats? Probably not.

If your dog is looking a bit overweight, you wouldn’t scold it or ignore its dietary needs. Instead, you would adjust its food intake and monitor its health. Yet, how often do we allow ourselves to indulge without the same scrutiny?

Consider the story of Nanette Newman, an actress who once discovered a metal skewer in her dog after noticing something was off. The vet managed to remove the skewer, but the dog immediately devoured a loaf of bread, still in its wrapper, soon after the operation.

Chapter 2: Self-Care Practices

Do you groom your dog regularly? You might not have a high-maintenance breed, but your pet still deserves care. I know someone who meticulously cleans her dog’s ears and takes care of its grooming, yet she often neglects her own appearance.

When I mentioned this to her, she replied, “He can’t do it for himself.” True, but neither can you unless you choose to.

Treat yourself with the same care and attention you give your dog.

Chapter 3: Nurturing Relationships

Now, let’s talk about your partner. It might feel odd to compare your partner to your dog, but think about it: are you as affectionate with your partner as you are with your pet?

If you ceased to pet your dog or speak kindly to it, how long would it be before your dog stopped seeking affection from you? The same principle applies to your partner.

How often do you show physical affection to your partner, like a loving touch or a gentle kiss? Relationships, just like those with animals, require attention and care.

You might use a soft voice with your dog—why not do the same with your partner? Do you regularly check in with your partner to see how they’re feeling or if their needs are met?

Neglecting any relationship, whether with your dog, your partner, or yourself, can lead to unnecessary pain. So, be as attentive and loving to yourself and your partner as you are to your dog.

Watch the O2 "BE MORE DOG" advert, which beautifully captures the essence of treating ourselves with the same love and care we provide our pets.

The O2 Cat Advert "Be More Dog" humorously reminds us to embrace positivity in our lives, just as we do for our pets.