Our 14-year-old canine manages to test the limits of endurance and life. After injuring herself during a short marathon in snow, uphill, with her 5 year old human cousin, Sally required treatments to address the swelling, inflammation and other hidden issues. She could barely stand, walk or eat easily. A harness with its rear end attachment helped restore her strength, once again. She is a miracle in a retriever's guise. If I dare complain to her, she will simply ignore me. Good for her!
The snow has arrived in this winter location. She loves the outside walk and the challenge it presents. Though Sally has mobility issues, walking is a must nonetheless. I want to stay indoors myself but she needs what she needs. All dogs do! The rear end handle helps her outdoor 'play' have meaning. To those companies who make these contraptions so our pets can walk and heal, I salute and honour you.
Lifting 70 pounds of puppy is a mean feat for this old lady. But I must keep fit if her life has meaning. One cannot exist without the other.
When the snow falls, walking can be difficult so I use my special shovel to create fresh pathways. Each new snow fall buries the walkways created before. Every new pathway is akin to a maize or labyrinth making their brains work a bit harder at this new way home. Brains that are challenged retain the knowledge and spirit of the past. New ways of playing create new memories thus encouraging our seniors - both animal and human - to figure it out all over again in a new way.
It is my job to address her exercise regimen outdoors. The inside ones cannot be changed as walls are permanent. When she hears me chopping or slicing Sally gets up to 'look'. Movement is good in all its forms as is the interest she shows. Tumeric is an integral part of her diet, thus keeping her brain clear, ready for the next intrusion into her life. No time for pity here. I have work to do. And so does she, the darling in my life.
