The Man And The Dog

Written By: Zach Miller

“In an unforgiving world where passion often takes a backseat to practicality and life itself, there are those rare individuals who refuse to let their dreams fade away into nothing. They are the unsung heroes, the ones who quietly go about their work, making a difference in the lives of others when no one is looking. Among these remarkable individuals is the dog trainer who gets the job done because it is their passion… but is it who you think?”

Ah, but who is this person you may ask? Behind the scenes, away from the spotlight, this dog trainer pours their heart and soul into their craft. They wake up every morning with an unwavering determination to make a positive impact on the lives of both dogs and their owners. It is not just a job for them; it is a calling, a purpose that drives them forward. They go through battles every sunup and sun down only to relish in the fact that one day their moment will come, even if it is only a glimmer.

When no one is looking, they spend countless hours researching, studying, and honing their skills. They immerse themselves in the world of canine behavior, constantly seeking new techniques and methods to better understand and communicate with those who do not speak out language. They attend seminars, workshops, and conferences, always striving to stay at the forefront of their field, oftentimes spending money they do not have. They understand that life hasn’t been fair to them, nor have they been handed anything on a silver platter. Their training session consists of a pack of beat up bumpers and a whistle held together with duct tape. They would give up an hour of their morning to train because they know this is the way, this is the path… this is peace. 

When no one is looking, this dog trainer is not motivated by money or fame. Their reward comes from the creature waiting anxiously at the heel beside them. Their payment comes not from money, but from showing up to a test, sweeping the floor of the competition and not saying a word, just a smile to be shared between the two of them on the drive home. Their reward comes from the journey, the fact that a few years ago they held this animal in their palm and now they are turning old and gray. The feeling when they look into a dog's eyes and unbeknownst to them, they see their entire future ahead of them.

It’s not just the dogs who benefit from this dog trainer's passion. They also touch the lives of countless owners, helping them build a stronger bond with their well-trained dogs. They patiently guide owners through the ups and downs of training, offering support and encouragement and occasionally brutal realizations every step of the way. They understand that a well-trained dog is not just a joy to be around, but also a direct reflection of the love and care and discipline they receive from their human companions from non-stop attention to detail. 

When no one is looking, this dog trainer's passion shines through in every interaction. Every little part of the day feels like an eternity, they understand that “just one more rep” or “just one more” something will possibly get them closer to their moment. What they tend to not understand is they're living that moment. They see beyond the surface and want to rush to the end game but forget that the journey goes all too quick and we find ourselves old and gray wishing we took a second to enjoy those moments and those dogs a little more. Their genuine love for dogs is palpable, and it is this love that sets them apart, and is something no one can ever touch. In a world that often values instant gratification and quick fixes, this dog trainer reminds us of the power of patience, dedication, and genuine passion. They remind us that the most meaningful work is often done when no one is looking, driven solely by the desire to make a difference.

So, who is this person? It’s everyone who reads this and makes it a purpose to reach the end. It’s everyone who would take a day in the swamp with just their dog over a crowded blind. It’s everyone who chooses to treat others right vs using them for personal gain. It’s everyone who finds peace in a service-less phone and an open field. It’s everyone who does a good deed and doesn’t need to be thanked and it’s everyone who gets the job done when no one is looking… 

I just hope I meet them...



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