DORA-DOG'S ROLE AS CAREGIVER

 POST # 542

During the early days after Mary's hip replacement, Dora-dog was looking as exhausted as The Thoughtful Wanderer.  But through it all, she always remained focused on Mary.   Of course, it's impossible to know what thoughts were going through her head each day, but I could tell by her actions, that Mary was at the top of the list of Dora-dog's priorities.  She was perplexed by the walker that Mary had to use, just to get around the house. Eventually the walker was replaced by a cane, but through it all, Dora-dog has always been by Mary's side, wanting to be of any assistance possible.  Through many sleepless nights, Dora-dog is there to stand guard.  She is always there to protect Mary in any way that she can.  

Over time, the situation has become easier than it was when I arrived back on February 20th, and all three of us are very grateful for that fact.

Another way in which Dora-dog has been a great support for the two humans in the house is as a welcome distraction for us.  The daily ritual of play time has now come back onto the agenda, and Dora-dog certainly doesn't disappoint in this area.  We both appreciate the exuberance and happiness that she displays when some of her favourite toys are brought out to have fun with.  At times, it can almost seem like things are back to normal.  But we're not there just yet.  In the meantime, it has been great to have our four-legged friend offer her version of support.  It means a lot to the both of us.

I even had time the other day to go for a long walk with Dora-dog.  You most certainly can tell by the expression on her face, that she is enjoying her day out in the sun.  For a short while at least, she didn't seem to have a care in the world.  But as soon as we returned home, she quickly hurried over to Mary to make sure that she was OK.  

So yes, things are beginning to improve for Mary, and a big part of that improvement in my opinion has been Dora-dog's role as caregiver.  As my time winds down here, and I get ready to move on to my next house/pet sit, I am comforted by the fact that Dora-dog will remain here by Mary's side, ready to offer up whatever assistance that she is able, in order to help Mary make as quick a recovery as possible.  What more could you ask for, from such a faithful, four-legged friend?

grateful for every breath,

Paul

The Thoughtful Wanderer