Today, I want to share one of the biggest reasons I’m able to function as well as I do despite my neurodivergence: my dog. Aside from my parents, my incredible labradoodle, Fred, has been my greatest source of comfort and companionship. He’ll turn 15 this July, and he’s been part of our family since he was just a 10-week-old puppy. That means he came into my life when I was ten years old.
There are numerous studies that show that petting a dog can relieve stress, and I know from personal experience how true this is. When I am having a bad day, my sweet Fred will sit beside me, and I will pet him and forget about my troubles. When I was eleven, I had a painful operation. While recovering, my dog Fred laid beside me whether I was on the couch, my bed or just sitting in a chair. I really believe his presence led to a faster recovery.
Besides being loyal, Fred is also a lot of fun. We have run together on the beach. I’ve watched him chase squirrels up a tree at the park. I’ve played numerous games of tug-of-war and fetch with him. He just brings me so much joy!!
I once read a study that said that humans have had a special bond with canines that dates back more than 30,000 years. In fact, some scientists speculate that Homo sapiens survived whereas other hominids, such as the Neanderthal, went extinct, because of their domestication of wolves as companions. Dogs helped warn our ancestors before dangerous predators got too close; dogs helped with hunting; and, dogs kept people warm on cold nights. We just have a special relationship with our canine friends. For this reason, I get so angry when I hear of any dog that is mistreated or abandoned. I love my Fred, and he will always be family.
Wired with Love 
I would love to hear your thoughts