Growing up with a pet is one of the most valuable experiences for a child. Just sharing a bit of tender loving care with a dog or cat can change your life forever and teach you important lessons about love and responsibility. My dog, Bruno, enriched my life in so many ways. He served as my “brother,” watching out for me and keeping me entertained when I was young, and as I grew up, chores of feeding and walking him taught me responsibility.
Bruno was a mixed-breed dog (or mutt, as we affectionately teased him). He had the coloring of a golden retriever, a beautiful blonde coat streaked with white; the nose of a collie, a long, rounded muzzle; and ears that resembled a husky’s, pointing straight into the air.
He was a rescue from the North Shore Animal League on Long Island. We spoiled him with love and attention, although we couldn’t afford velvet beds or gourmet food. It didn’t take long for our four-legged friend to make his way into our hearts and become an unforgettable addition to our family.
Ever since I was born, Bruno was a big part of my life. He stood by my crib and was always on “baby patrol.” Whenever I cried, he’d run to find my parents, much like an older sibling. Never once did I think of him as just a dog. Without siblings of my own, Bruno was a big source of my entertainment. I would line up my toys by his side and make my dolls ride on his back. I also used to play hide-and-seek with him — a modified version in which he would run around the kitchen looking for the treat I hid. What a great brother to put up with my games!
As I grew older, I started to learn more about raising my dog. I took on greater responsibilities, including feeding Bruno. It started as a weekend chore and grew to be a daily task, which I enjoyed. Maybe it was the fact that I got to use the super-fun can opener or perhaps, it was just the feeling of importance. His dinner time was 6 pm, and if I was late, there were consequences: Bruno would glance at me disapprovingly, and I would feel guilty for neglecting my “brother” and friend. These tasks reminded me that I was growing up. I helped to raise Bruno, but Bruno also helped raise me, contributing to my development and growth.
Still, it takes an entire family to care for a dog. My parents and I were all dedicated to caring for Bruno. He was a member of our family and helped bring us together. We would walk Bruno through our neighborhood at sunset, and when we watched movies, he would curl up at our feet. I still recall those peaceful evenings when my parents would be reading, I would be messing around with the guitar, and Bruno would be sleeping in the corner. Those simple memories still remind us today that family trumps all.
Eventually, Bruno succumbed to old age. He lived to be 18 years old (around 88 in human years)! It was an incredible feat for a medium-sized dog from the shelter to live that long. We were completely devastated, but coming to terms with his death brought us closer together as a family. Bruno left such a huge impact on our lives, and he’ll continue to live on in spirit and memory.
Every child should have the opportunity to grow up with a pet. Big or small, they provide us with joy and excitement, as well as important lessons. They are patient teachers and have the capability of fostering maturity and respect. They are also our best psychologists, understanding our emotions and alleviating our distress. If you’re looking for that special companion, consider adopting your new friend from an animal shelter. You’ll be surprised by all the animals you’ll find there.
Aglaia Ho is a 16-year-old student from Queens who enjoys writing. Her work has been published in Creative Kids, Skipping Stones, Daily News/Children’s Pressline, and The State of the Wild.
