Cant believe its been over a month since Ive posted a Bear Status. I didn’t intend to break from FB for so long, but realized my time was better spent actually caring for Bear (and my other dogs) than posting about it. Not gonna lie, its been overwhelming at times - having two seniors with similar issues, one senior with new issues and two younger dogs that needed and expected their routines to remain the same.The challenges I faced every day forced me into lowering my expectations of myself. I had to accept that I’m not superhuman, and that not everything had to be perfect all the time.The most important thing was in establishing a new routine that accommodated everyone’s needs, but wouldn’t confuse those who found comfort in the old routine. After some iterative adjustments, all dogs have settled nicely into their new schedules. I’ve always felt and known that every animal entering my life was sent to teach me something about myself; something I needed to work on in order to evolve as a person. I try to remind myself of this whenever my knowledge, skills, patience or emotions are put to the test. Caring for new old dogs is always a roller-coaster ride, and Bear is no exception. Hes had some really good days and a few really bad ones, but always rallies. Over the years I’ve come to learn that expecting and accepting the roller-coaster ride, and being fully present during a crisis lessens the chances of overreacting and/or burnout. Guess I’ve learned that lesson.The greater lessons tend to come from the quieter moments, and are easy to overlook, especially when in denial about the extent of personal shortcomings. Bear and I have developed a deep connection based on complete trust and immeasurable love, but it was a painfully slow process. I was slow in identifying the lesson he presented me with every day. I took care of him like I take care of everything in my life. I push through challenges with force and determination, but often create collateral damage. I have two speeds. Mach and Off. I give 110% and stop only when I feel collapse approaching. It’s not healthy, sensible or sustainable. Bear was telling me I had to slooow down and adjust my normal method of accomplishing things before making any progress with him. When he first arrived I nearly crawled out of my skin with frustration and impatience over not being able to give him the intensive marathon grooming session *I* enjoy so much. I can’t explain the joy it brings me to bring in a neglected dog and spend hours brushing, clipping, filing, swabbing and scrubbing. I’ll devote an entire day to grooming; only stopping when the dog tells me it’s time for a break. Bear needed a break after
Posted on: Tue, 23 Sep 2014 21:22:00 +0000
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