Cassidy Roo reminds me every day that I’m not alone, that I’m loved just as I am, and that no matter what life throws my way, I have her by my side.
Dog lovers like me don’t just consider our pets “part of the family” – they are our family. And when you live with a dog like Cassidy, you learn that communication goes far beyond words. There’s a whole world of unspoken understanding that builds over time, just by being together, sharing space, sharing routines, sharing life.
Cassidy has this way of tuning into me so deeply that it’s like she can hear my thoughts. If I’m feeling overwhelmed or drained, she doesn’t make a sound. She just rests her head on my leg, or curls up beside me like, “I’ve got you.” On the flip side, if I’m in a silly mood or need a laugh, she’s the first one spinning in circles, wagging her whole body and inviting joy back into the moment.
One of the hardest times in my life was going through my divorce. It was a whirlwind of emotions – relief and heartbreak all rolled into one. There were days when I felt strong and hopeful, and others when I questioned whether I could really do it on my own or if I wanted to be alone. But the truth is, I was never alone. Cassidy Roo was there through every tear, every sleepless night, every breath I had to remind myself to take, and every time I was so happy knowing I had made the right decision. She never left my side. She didn’t need to say a word – just her being there was enough. She comforted me in ways no human could. Just her being her was the kind of support I didn’t even know I needed until I had it.
That’s the thing about dogs – they don’t speak our language, but they understand us better than most people do. Cassidy reads my face like a book. She knows the difference between a real smile and the one I put on when I’m just trying to get through the day. She picks up on my posture, the tone in my voice, even the way I walk through the house. If I’m anxious, she stays calm. If I’m joyful, she celebrates with me. If I’m hurting, she becomes a soft, silent shadow that never leaves my side.
People often say that dogs only understand a handful of words, but I think they understand more words and our hearts more than we give them credit for. Communication is so much more than what we say out loud – it’s the way we move, the energy we give off, the look in our eyes. Cassidy Roo knows all of it. And she responds with love, always.
If you’ve ever looked into your dog’s eyes and felt seen – truly seen – you know what I’m talking about. There’s this deep, soulful connection that goes far beyond our pets and us. It’s companionship. It’s love. It’s a kind of silent loyalty that doesn’t waver, even when everything else feels so unsure.
Sometimes I catch myself just staring at her, wondering how I got so lucky. How this four-legged little beautiful soul came into my life and became the calm in my chaos, the laughter in my quiet moments, the anchor that helped me through so much over the last nine years. She doesn’t just live in my house; she lives in my heart.
So, do dogs recognize our smiles and body language? Without a doubt. But it’s more than recognition – it’s a bond built on trust, empathy, and unconditional love. Cassidy Roo reminds me every day that I’m not alone, that I’m loved just as I am, and that no matter what life throws my way, I have her by my side.
And really, what more could we ever need? QCBN
By Loree Walden
Loree Walden is the marketing manager for Yavapai Humane Society.
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