Hi Michelle, So much here that I can relate to.. Your husband's new reality.. it sounds so wonderful to be without appointments and expectation, but leaves one feeling rudderless. It is so tough to release oneself from the defining daily actions and the feeling of contributing, helping others and feeling valued. I get it ... directly. As you know dogs are a very, very important part of my life and also over 35 years we have have had 9 dogs, all of who I love and loved with all of my dog Mom heart. I don't think I will ever be without a dog to comfort, play and snuggle nest to me. As tough as it is to say goodbye, the love, the company, the funny antics enrich my life every day. You know I travel a lot, and I always feel a little guilty leaving them with a house sitter, but they are fine and I live my life and get a huge dose of welcome home when I get back. Everyone has to choose for themselves, but for me, being dogless is not an option. It is so tough watching the beloved elder dog and especially now in our sixties projecting our own aging process...but it is all real...as much as I try to deny it and hold the clock hands still. I get it.
It would not be a question in my mind if I were my younger self. I love dogs because they add so much to our lives and have a way of teaching and connecting us all. And I may change my mind when the time comes. Time will tell. Thanks for sharing your loving pet story.
My dog is nine and now has a white snout and white paws. She has trouble with the steps, and other issues that older dogs get. It is sad to see, and I too have considered whether it's worth getting another dog after this one. If only they lived longer, if only they didn't get sick, if only....a lot to consider.
Hi Michelle, So much here that I can relate to.. Your husband's new reality.. it sounds so wonderful to be without appointments and expectation, but leaves one feeling rudderless. It is so tough to release oneself from the defining daily actions and the feeling of contributing, helping others and feeling valued. I get it ... directly. As you know dogs are a very, very important part of my life and also over 35 years we have have had 9 dogs, all of who I love and loved with all of my dog Mom heart. I don't think I will ever be without a dog to comfort, play and snuggle nest to me. As tough as it is to say goodbye, the love, the company, the funny antics enrich my life every day. You know I travel a lot, and I always feel a little guilty leaving them with a house sitter, but they are fine and I live my life and get a huge dose of welcome home when I get back. Everyone has to choose for themselves, but for me, being dogless is not an option. It is so tough watching the beloved elder dog and especially now in our sixties projecting our own aging process...but it is all real...as much as I try to deny it and hold the clock hands still. I get it.
Ilona,
It would not be a question in my mind if I were my younger self. I love dogs because they add so much to our lives and have a way of teaching and connecting us all. And I may change my mind when the time comes. Time will tell. Thanks for sharing your loving pet story.
My dog is nine and now has a white snout and white paws. She has trouble with the steps, and other issues that older dogs get. It is sad to see, and I too have considered whether it's worth getting another dog after this one. If only they lived longer, if only they didn't get sick, if only....a lot to consider.