As I sat in a chair with my dog, Buck, at my parents’ house during a Labor Day picnic, I glanced over at Finn, their dog, struggling to climb out of the pool. Age has begun to slow him down, and in that quiet moment, watching him, a wave of reflection came over me. It’s funny how the smallest moments — simple moments— can spark the deepest thoughts about time, change, and the bonds we share.

Having a pet is one of the greatest joys we get to experience on this earth. Whether it’s a dog, cat, bird, or any other animal, they bring love, comfort, and companionship in ways nothing else can.

To someone on the fence about making the commitment to a furry friend, it might seem like just another responsibility. But the truth is, the more care and attention you give them, the more joy and unconditional love they give back. Somehow, without ever saying a word, they make life brighter, calmer, and more meaningful.

“I wish good dogs never got gray and old.” – Riley Green

Man, isn’t that the truth? If you’ve ever loved a dog, you know exactly what he means.

My childhood dog, Buddy, wasn’t just a pet — he was my brother. Wherever I went, he went. Exploring the woods, lying in the grass, running through the yard — Buddy was always by my side. He taught me loyalty, responsibility, and what it means to love unconditionally, all without ever speaking a word.

After Buddy, Finn — or Finjamo Johnson, as my brother likes to call him — became the family dog. He came into our lives when my parents became empty nesters, and he wasn’t just their dog. He was the glue that kept the house lively and our family connected. For me, he was a grounding presence, always greeting me with that wild tail wag no matter how long I’d been away.

Then came Buck. My guy. He’s been with me through adulthood — from my first apartment to my first house, through milestones, adventures, and quiet nights on the couch. We’ve grown together, and yes, we both have a little more gray than when we first met — his from chasing squirrels, mine from trying to keep him from eating things he shouldn’t.

The beauty of a good dog lies in how they show up differently at every stage of life. Buddy shaped my childhood. Finn kept our family close during transitions. Buck has been my steady companion through adulthood. Their love is unconditional, their loyalty unmatched, and their presence makes life richer in ways nothing else can.

Riley Green’s words hit harder than ever: “I wish good dogs never got gray and old.” But maybe that’s the point. They remind us to savor every moment, to be present, and to cherish the kind of love that lingers long after their paws leave the floor.

Be intentional when choosing a companion. Adopt an animal that feels right for you. It’s hard to explain, but you’ll just know. My nanny recently had to say goodbye to her best friend, Karlos — a black cat who seemed to have nine lives and then some. She didn’t even choose him; he found her, and they loved each other until the very end. Afterward, my mom reminded her that somewhere, there’s another animal who needs her just as much as she needs them — and she’s right. There’s always another soul waiting to be loved.

I guess my whole point is this: animals need us just as much as we need them. They’re there for the good, the bad, and all the in-between moments. To them, you are a superhero. So, if you’re ready, adopt — don’t shop — and find yourself a best friend.

Because once you do, life will never be the same.

“But ask the animals, and they will teach you, or the birds in the sky, and they will tell you; or speak to the earth, and it will teach you, or let the fish in the sea inform you. Which of all these does not know that the hand of the Lord has done this? In his hand is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. ~ Job 12:7-10