They from the Planet Them say you can't teach an old dog new tricks, but mine did something completely new today. More on that in a moment.
Sherman is a vastly creative Pekingese. Like his owners, he regularly gets passionate about new hobbies, only to discard them later. He's been obsessed with pig's ears, went through a doorway sleeping phase and had a bout with bulimia. Lately he's become agoraphobic. We can't figure out why. He simply refuses to go outside. It's clearly behavioral because he barks to get let in.
This wouldn't be a problem, of course, except he really wants to use the dining room floor as his own personal potty, which means I'm now decorating with wee-pads. Sherman's ninety-one in dog years. One adjusts.
What got me worried, however, was when I picked him up to discover he'd soiled himself. This is never pleasant for any ninety-one year old, but it's particularly difficult with a long-haired dog. Suffice it to say today's New Thing gave new meaning to the phrase "cut the shit."
As luck would have it, I was picking him up to go to the vet anyway to deal with his heart murmur, which provided a second New Thing as I got to listen to his heartbeat.
It sounded like sneakers in a dryer.
Poor puppy. He's lost weight and eyesight, which can only mean that our much-loved dog is entering another new phase. Which makes him all the more precious to me.
5 comments:
Sherman was the best store mascot I have EVER worked with. He was the best dog. Hope he gets over this bad health.
Do everything you can to keep Sherman happy and comfortable. Look for and pay attention to the nuanced changes in behavior and routine.
Read the book "Dog Years" by Mark Doty. When I read it earlier this year, it, unbeknownst to me helped me appreciate and cherish the end of my time with Euckie the Wonder Dog. Thank Sherman everyday for his years of loyal and faithful companionship. He man let you know when he's ready to say good-bye. As hard as it is, listen to him and honor that. Good thoughts are sent to you, Lloyd, and Sherman.
I refuse to get weepy reading this post.
The waiting game for elderly pets is always the worst thing.
~sigh~
I agree with thomas - Sherman was the reason I worked with you guys. I mean you are both cute, but nothing can beat Sherman's charm.
My thoguhts are with you both.
David was stronger than me, I'm already crying reading this.
I'm on dog three, went through this twice. It's hell.
I have nice memories of Sherman too.
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