I don’t know about you, but the term “dog owner” has never felt right to me. Ownership is typically defined as “the act or right of possessing something”. The right of possessing something. First of all, we don’t possess dogs and they aren’t just something. They are more than that.
In Hawaiian, dog guardians are referred to as Kahu’s. Kahu has many meanings including honored or beloved attendent, guardian, protector, keeper, caretaker, or steward. It is a person who is entrusted with the safe keeping of something precious and something cherished. I love this because what are dogs if not precious and cherished? Exactly. You belong to each other. You are precious to each other. You cherish each other.
Dogs are also sentient beings. With thoughts, feelings, emotions, needs, and motivations all of their own. You can’t own another being and you shouldn’t try to dominate one either. You can share space. You can share hobbies. You can have a partnership based on respect, trust, and love. You can peacefully and happily co-exist with each other.
It’s a mutually beneficial relationships. Our dogs promise to be our best friends and life companions. In response, we promise to also be that to them; but to also take care of them and provide the most amazing and enriching life possible. It is not enough to provide the basic needs of food, water, shelter, and (some) exercise. We must exercise their brains in ways that are fulfilling and make sense to them. We must exercise their bodies in ways that are fulfilling and make sense to them. We must fairly and kindly guide them through a world that was not designed for them.
When you bring a dog into your life, you swear an oath to them. You swear to be their Kahu. So be their Kahu and go have an amazing life together!
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