And no, I’m not talking about the Republican party.
While we are all aging, we still have to take care of those older than us.
My friends are taking care of two aging kittehs. I’m dealing with an aging Dora.
Tonight, Dora seemed to have a little leg that went to sleep. It wouldn’t be a big deal with any other dog, except Dora only has three to start with. She was distressed, but between Caroline and I we got her back up on the bed and happy. Caroline is watching over Dora now — quite a change, since Dora has always been Caroline’s protector and cleaner — as it were.
Watching Dora calm as she ages is something I rejoice, but also dread. I love the gentler calmer Dora, but I also know that caring for her will involve risks. I deal with her delicately. I know she loves me, but her instinct is to defend herself no matter what. I can only hope that she remembers I have never hurt her. Even after all these years, she trusts Caroline more than me — because of what idiot hunters did to her.
I’m thinking that in addition to play time with Dora, I’ll add a little massage. She’s been a wonderful dog always. She makes me feel safe — especially since the fire. She was the one who saved us all that night.
Here’s to taking care of the olds. They mean so much to us and end up being such babies, which makes us love them all the more.
calle viena 