Shauna Halstad has always known that her dog Flynn is a gentle giant with a heart full of apprehension. Despite his imposing size — a hefty 110-pound Bernese Mountain Dog/Newfoundland mix — Flynn is surprisingly timid when faced with everyday objects and situations. Boxes, bags, and even their harmless, toothless rescue cat all seem to evoke a sense of unease in him. “He’s pretty much afraid of his own shadow,” Shauna chuckles affectionately, recounting Flynn’s myriad fears to The Dodo.
However, amidst this catalog of anxieties, there exists a beacon of comfort and courage for Flynn — his beloved blankets. For over a year and a half now, Flynn’s fuzzy blankies have been his constant companions, accompanying him everywhere he goes. What began as a practical purchase from the dollar store, initially intended for cleaning his paws, unexpectedly transformed into Flynn’s cherished source of solace and security. “I picked one up at the dollar store — it was supposed to be for cleaning his paws,” Shauna recalls. “But he immediately decided it was his to cuddle. He started carrying it around nonstop and even wanted to take it on his walks.”
Recognizing the profound impact these blankets had on Flynn’s well-being, Shauna soon found herself returning to the store to buy more. “He grabs it as soon as he wakes up and drags it all over the house and backyard,” she explains with a mix of amusement and tenderness. To Flynn, these blankets aren’t just pieces of cloth; they are talismans of comfort that empower him to navigate his fears, whether it’s encountering backyard creatures or venturing into unfamiliar spaces.
“He protests having to walk without his blanket,” Shauna reveals. “He likes to hoard them into a pile.” This endearing habit not only showcases Flynn’s attachment but also underscores his need for reassurance in a world that often overwhelms him. Despite his size and the stoic appearance he may present to strangers, Flynn is, at heart, a gentle soul seeking comfort and security.
Beyond his affinity for blankets, Flynn’s role within the family extends far beyond mere companionship. Despite his own fears, he intuitively understands when his family or his canine sibling could use a little extra comfort. “He loves his family deeply and is always there to give cuddles when we need them,” Shauna remarks warmly. In many ways, Flynn becomes a soothing presence for his family, much like how his blankets provide him with a sense of calm and safety.
“Life with Flynn is never dull,” Shauna reflects with a smile. “He has this old soul wisdom in a puppy’s body, teaching us all to slow down and appreciate the simple joys, especially those warm puppy cuddles.” Flynn’s presence is a constant reminder to cherish the moments of peace and comfort that he brings, whether through his gentle demeanor or his unwavering attachment to his blankets.
In Flynn’s story, there’s a universal lesson about empathy and understanding for creatures big and small. His fears, though peculiar, remind us of the vulnerability that exists within every being, regardless of size or strength. Through Flynn’s journey, Shauna and her family have learned to embrace his quirks with love and patience, fostering a bond that transcends words.
As Flynn continues to navigate his world with a blend of caution and courage, his story serves as a testament to the transformative power of love and acceptance. His blankets may seem like ordinary items to an outsider, but to Flynn, they represent comfort, security, and the unwavering support of a loving family. And in return, Flynn enriches their lives with his gentle spirit and the profound lessons he teaches about resilience and the enduring power of love.