Dogs and children

My sweet Lucky boy almost died last week. We had just left for vacation and he was in the front yard on his leash. This has been his home for the past few week since he got all tangled up in the zip line in the back yard, almost hanging himself on the porch. Anyway, we had been gone for about 6 hours when Kim called to say she had found him in the front yard, tangled up in the line and almost lifeless. He had been in the hot sun, unable to reach shade or water, for some time apparently. He walked sideways (appearing drunk) and was panting. He couldn't really stand on his own. She got him inside, called us and needed direction. Within a few hours, many calls had been made between us, different vets, other friends, etc...all trying to figure out what to do with this friend of so many years. Our daughter, K'Lynn, was the one left to care for and deal with this very sick dog. Totally out of her comfort zone, but she did an amazing job.

Daily, I spoke to the vet. Lucky was in "ICU" for almost a week. Day by day, the question was 'when do we have to decide if he is going to make it through this or that we allow him to rest?'. I was prepared to make the decision to have him put to sleep, if necessary. He has had a great life, and a long life by most standards. He is 8 and has been a part of so many of our family's milestones. He has lived in 7 different yards, 4 different cities and 2 different states. He has traveled with us, protected us, and put up with us for many years now. He is loyal, faithful, loving, and as much an actor as K'Lynn is an actress. He has perfected the 'shiver'...he can begin to shiver and look so pitiful ("Hey, it's cold out here...can I just come inside?") even when it is only 75* outside. He is social and loves us. He is a part of the family.

On Friday evening, I got the call saying that he would make it and that he should come home on Saturday. Arrangements were made and when I got home Saturday night from vacation, there he was. His progress since then (one week ago) is amazing. He is finally trying to eat. His energy is much improved. He now wags his short, stumpy little tail again. Last night, he played with Lucy, biting her playfully on her legs as she did him. He isn't complete yet, but he is going to live.

I am thankful that God has allowed me the honor of raising both dogs and children. I have learned lessons from each of them. I am loved by both groups, and love them in return. As I type this, Lucy (little sister, as I refer to her), just jumped up beside me in the big red chair. It is dark and she is softly barking at unseen threats...pretty sure we're safe, but at least I've been warned!