News stories often contain stories portraying heroic animals, mostly dogs but I've also seen cats, parrots, horses, pigs, and I wouldn't put it past a goldfish or two. Normally these stories detail fires gone bad, where the pet rescued their owners, or some other dire circumstance. But, heroism isn't restricted to tragedy. I've worked in a medical setting where pets are brought in as comfort for the patients. It's incredible to see the impact of a purring cat on someone's lap, or a gentle dog sitting beside someone. Animals can be heroes simply by being around! Incredible.
And then there are animals who bend belief to the snapping point. Dogs and cats who travel hundreds of miles to find their owners, cherished pets who remain at their dying owner's sides until help arrives. I once read a news story about a cat who dialed 911 and meowed to the operator, who somehow got an ambulance out and saved the life of the woman inside the house. It's spooky and heartwarming.
There are many reasons why people form such miraculous connections with animals, and I think the main one is because animals don't judge us. Sure, animals don't talk, but they certainly understand us. Besides, we rapidly learn to rely on each other. Our pets become part of the family, and we mourn their loss. In light of this, why is it any surprise when animals become heroes and rescue us? It seems only natural when there's such strong connections between us. That, in itself, is miraculous.
- M
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