I have always been a dog lover. I am crazy for dogs! Six months prior to being injured, I put a deposit down on a puppy in Calgary. The first few months after injury my life was unmanageable because of so many symptoms - headaches, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, poor short term memory just to name a few. I contacted the breeder and told her I would forfeit my deposit because I felt I couldn't properly care for a puppy.
Two months after my injury, one of my best friends, Lori, passed away from cancer. She had two Chihuahuas, Ebony and Ivory, who were her darling babies. I knew both dogs for their entire lives and loved them very much.
When I was asked to take them, I was very concerned about not being able to look after them as well as Lori did. What if I forgot to feed them? What if I left them outside, forgot about them and left the house? My neighbourhood has many natural predators like foxes and eagles. During this time period, I was doing things like leaving my wallet in the microwave and my lost keys were eventually found in the freezer. How could I possibly look after two traumatized, grieving little dogs when my head was so messed up?
My husband and I agreed to take them in. Rehoming two elderly dogs with medical issues would be impossible. I desperately wanted them to live with me but I was petrified that I would be a neglectful caregiver.
The first couple of months were trying because the dogs were confused and missing their human mama. I had notes all over the house to remind me to feed them, change their water, give them treats etc. I was so fatigued and dizzy that I spent hours on the couch cuddling and napping with them. I was lucky they are smart dogs and creatures of habit. If I forgot to feed them or let them outside, they would remind me by barking and jumping on me while I was sleeping. Thank goodness they are bossy little things and don't miss a beat.
As time went on, there were many trips to the vet. It strained my brain to remember which medication I had to give each dog, some had to be taken with food, some had to be given once a day or twice a day.
Ivory had to have one of her medications administered by a syringe. That was not fun having to chase her around, pin her down, and perfectly aim the syringe so the medicine would make it down her throat. My aim was not good so there were many times I sprayed her face and the floor with this sticky thick red solution. She looked like a bloodied, abused dog. And after each attempt I would have to lie down because I was so dizzy. Thankfully Ivory forgave me each and every time and would snuggle with me.
After the months went by, I realized these dogs were providing me with a routine and a sense of purpose. Every morning, Ebony runs into my room and barks until I get out of bed. It wasn't a big deal if I forgot something because they would let me know. Because of them, my self-confidence was restored and I felt strongly that "I can do this!"
Being intuitive dogs, Ebony and Ivory were sources of comfort for me during my darkest moments. They would sense I was struggling and would bark, jump into my lap and lick my face. They are two of my best friends and I can't imagine my life without them.
Now that my balance issues have decreased, I've been taking Ebony and Ivory for walks and enjoying the fresh air and sunshine. My grieving for the loss of my dear friend Lori, their human mama has become tolerable because her spirit lives through these precious little creatures. I was upset when I couldn't have the puppy I picked out in Calgary. Now I know and I'm grateful that I was meant to have Ebony and Ivory.
The healing qualities of pets is truly incredible.
