ABSTRACT
Human-animal bonds are instinctive and underscore the basics of attachment theories. Beauty unfolds in witnessing the presence of a therapy dog comforting the client when death is imminent. Therapy dogs are at the utmost a calming agent and known to mitigate the anxiety surrounding death and dying. Death, lonely as a train whistle, is hauntingly seductive, like a 13th-century Japanese koan full of mystery and paradox. Animals do not carry the fear of mortality like humans. Animals thrive in presence and therefore do not exhibit this fear. Animals have an uncanny way of reaching us in a way that humans do not. Their playful engagement inspires us to love and trust again. Animals are true advisors if only we allow them to assist us in everyday living. They help us not only to survive but also thrive. Animals are the honored guests in this remarkable world and increase the beauty of everyday living.
