May 8, 2014

Today was much better than yesterday. I am working at formulating an exercise routine that works well for both Chief and Susie. I am also reminding myself often to 'slow down' especially in terms of thinking about the various processes involved in caring for these two at this point in time. Because there are many other aspects of my life that I need and want to attend to it is always a temptation to 'skip' the focused type of thinking process that I am finding I absolutely need to do in order to 'handle well' the frustration, sadness, and irritability I sometimes experience due to the 'reality' of the situation with Chief and Susie.  I also remind myself often that 'patience' with me is of the utmost importance. Patience is the kind of 'thought process and/or action' that we think is a goal we should have towards others, while in fact it needs to be our own goal towards ourselves throughout each and every day. When I am patient with myself I see the others around me in an entirely different light. Rather than seeing entities as those who require my assistance in order to have the quality of life they so deserve, I view them as 'beings' with whom I desire, and choose to engage. I believe that it is also helping me that after yesterday's visit with the Veterinarian we decided that I should give Chief pain relief medication routinely. For the last two weeks I have been evaluating when and how much medication to give him. Each time I believed I had decided what the best dosage was in order to meet what I observed as him having great discomfort, his needs appeared to change. Since he has been on a regular dose I have seen him improve and I have felt as if a 'huge weight' has been lifted from my shoulders. For the past two days he has once again begun to give me eye contact and is definitely 'more present' to me. Yes, a good day, today.

Susie had her Veterinary appointment today. Her change in food, as recommended per the results of the blood test for allergies, is helping her. Won't know for another couple of weeks if she will need allergy shots.
You will see in one of the pictures that the two of them have decided to work at getting together while outside whatever the course. In time I will replace this fencing with 'horse type fencing' so that they can nuzzle together while outside.

Today's pictures: