My dogs were quite accommodating during my convalescence this past week. Our routine, schedule and high level of activity was thrown completely off kilter. Walks were nonexistent for several days and then short and slow. Mealtimes were later. I couldn’t play with them much, nor even sit up between themon the sofa for mushing and cuddles.
When we walked, we had to go very slowly due to my back injury and pain. I shuffled along like an old man. Surprisingly, they seemed to understand I needed to take it easy and didn’t pull, lunge or try to race ahead (much).
As for laying around all day, they did pretty good. When they needed to get their ya-yas out, they chased each other around the house and yard and barked at people through the window.
Mostly they snuggled up against me when I laid in bed or on the couch. They really didn’t get antsy until about the 6th day, when I could tell that Wiggles really needed to burn off some energy. Fortunately, I was able to do longer walks with them today. We’ve been taking different routes because I can’t handle the brisk hill climbs we usually do. The dogs don’t mind at all. They are finding plenty to sniff and gobble up on our varied routes.
Being mostly bed-bound with only my dogs for companionship makes me realize how lucky I am to have two loving dogs as part of my family – in sickness and in health. We make a good little family.
Would it be better to have a loving wife, a group of close friends and an extended family around?
Of course it would. But those chapters in my life have closed. I doubt there will be new ones written that include an extended family, another wife and a large group of friends.
As I was laying in bed, wracked in pain while snuggling with my dogs a few days ago, I thought, “Why are the dogs being so sweet to me? How can they be so ready and willing to accommodate my needs?”
Then I thought, “It’s obvious. They love me. And I love them and do the same for them when they need it.”
Some people say you shouldn’t treat your pets like they are family. For me, my pets have always been family.