I have a client who recently told me that their 14 month old dog had NEVER laid down in the house - not even one time. Since acquiring this puppy and now over 1 year later - he has yet to lay down and just rest. I still can't believe it. When the family is sitting around watching TV and just relaxing - he won't, can't or doesn't know how to just be still. OK, I have a 5 year old son and we often marvel at his perpetual motion but he eventually does fall asleep. This particular dog is just conditioned to sleep in the kennel at night, otherwise he is on the go.

I mention this because I just absolutely love Darcy's ability to rest, be still and relax. She takes relaxation to a new level and will fall asleep in my arms like a dishrag. She curls up in the crook of my knee and will be dreaming in mere minutes. When she is so blissfully peaceful it's near impossible to be wound up. She melts and I can start to unwind. I think that ability to seize the moment and refresh is important. I am in the middle of a transition that could keep me awake and stressed. I know they say that petting a dog can lower blood pressure but petting Darcy can hypnotize.

My husband thinks that having a dog in the bed is annoying. I think her bedtime and wake up routines are endearing and comforting. She trusts in the safety and security of her home, doesn't sweat the small stuff and knows the importance of just being "near". Good advice if you ask me!