Dogs are always on the lookout for other animals that possess the qualities that we dogs place the highest value on.  We feel a natural kinship with these creatures. My fellow canine citizens  are considered to be some of the most empathetic creatures on earth; we are attuned to our owners emotions, and seek to comfort those afflicted souls we encounter.  As a highly evolved dog, I seek out those humans who exhibit the highest degree of wisdom and compassion; in order  to enlighten my own mind, and also to share their learning with my fellow dogs, who might gain from the example of their spiritual progress.  Hello Dalai, Lama.  

     The Dalai Lama of Tibet is a human who has displayed and promoted the best aspects of human nature, in the opinion of learned dogs.  His assertion that an organism's happiness, and the avoidance of suffering, is the purpose of its life, is shared by all of the other animals that I have been in contact with.  For many of us "lower" animals, this is a truth that is known on a purely instinctual level.  For humans, and certain highly evolved dogs, the need to meld the ego's drive towards its own happiness, with the realities of other humans desires, often leads to conflict.  The Dalai Lama describes an approach of love, compassion and tolerance;  in a system that allows for the happiness of the "other" while it seeks to alleviate the suffering of the afflicted.  We dogs see this displayed in our families everyday, as parents act for the benefit and well being of their offspring, and often for their pets.  It's too bad that it's such a stretch to consider all beings to be part of one's extended family and worthy of love and compassion.  The Dalai Lama, and certain highly evolved dogs, are trying to promote the attainment and practice of this type of enlightenment.  

     The Dalai Lama is thought to be a reincarnation of the Bodisattva of Compassion.  The Bodisattva are enlightened beings who have postponed their own nirvana to serve humanity.  The Dalai Lama describes himself as a simple Buddhist monk.  I wonder if dogs can sign up for such service?  We dogs are engaged in our own ministry dedicated to love and compassion.  Like you, we have trouble extending the umbrella of our love over all of Nature's other creatures.  We often lack the wisdom or the will to see the benefit of it.
If we attempt to follow through on such a calling we might be called silly or naive.  Still, maybe I'll try snuggling up to that Golden Retriever tomorrow instead of barking at him as I usually do.  Who knows what might happen?

Buffy
Not Your Standard Poodle