Max seems to be settling into our routine. When he first came to us, he wasn’t thrilled with my early rising (around 530 or 6 am) and certainly didn’t want to eat when I normally fed Buck, around 6:50 or so. But the last couple of mornings he had his breakfast early, and was ready for the car ride to go pick up Pam from the train. He’s getting a handle on when we go for “a walk” and when we go to get his “business done.”
He still “speaks” to strangers, even when we are on walks. Not good at 7 am! I’m not sure how to go about getting him to NOT bark – might be a hopeless task – but I need some kind of command to stop it. It’s not like he’s yapping constantly, just barks once or twice to announce his presence. I’ve tried to make him sit (he does) then put my hand on his chest and give him a “quiet” or “no barking” command. Buck understood the “no barking” command, but it’s been years since he ever really spoke. I don’t think we was trained on a choke chain, because the normal tug on the leash doesn’t seem to faze him. (He’s not on a choke chain, but I might try using it for a couple weeks to see if I can do something about the barking.)
I think Pam is feeling a tad slighted because Max has really taken to me. He’s been a constant companion to me, and I’ve really needed it. When I’m emotional, he’s there for me. When I give him a hug, he returns it, snuggling into my arms, raising his paw to me, banging his head into my chest. It’s very heartwarming. He’s just a great guy.
I have had such a tough time dealing with Buck’s loss. I feel so guilty – and the guilt keeps changing. I hate myself for being the one that made the decision to end his life, even though his last few days were so obviously painful for him. What right do I have to be playing god with my best friend? And I’ve been doing so much reading lately, I realize that maybe Buck was in pain longer than I want to admit, and maybe I was being cruel by not doing something earlier. It’s easy to say I should just let it go, and believe me, I wish I could just “let it go” but I can’t – it torments me…
Anyway – Max is doing great! He’s a real playful guy and Pam and I had a game of catch with him today. He’s fun and energetic. Tomorrow we’re off to the big off leash park, to see how he does. He’s recovered from his surgery, so I think a nice walk in the park with some other dogs will be good for him. We’ll keep an eye on him to make sure he doesn’t over do it!
Talk to you soon,
Maurice
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You are so right in most everything you say Linda! But I do want to make clear, Max HAS been a great consolation to me. I’m so lucky he came to us. He’s a swell dog, and terrific company, and he’s becoming so happy. I’m so glad we were able to give him something, since he’s given me so much in such a short time. I’ve seen that Dog whisperer dude, and i’ll give that upward pull a try. Usually i do a downward pull… – the shht thing sounds good too. it’s a sound that might “startle” him to attention! Thanks for the ideas!
if you get the National Geographic Channel on TV? check out the program called The Dog Whisperer. It comes on week days at 3:00 for us so 2:00 for you? and also is on Saturday or Sunday too at some time as well? This fellow has an AMAZING way with dogs and he shows you some great ways of managing the dog while on leash going for walks? He gives a very simple ‘command’….it’s a Shhht sound while jerking upwards on the lead? not in a mean way but just being ‘assertive’ and showing him that you are the Leader of the pack. I would suggest watching a few programs if you get the chance. I have really learned a lot.
As Humans? we aren’t accustomed to be being in such a position to sign off on any sort of Live or Death decision for family members.It’s such a tough decision to make.And if you are anything like I am? and I feel that you are? that is exactly what our pets are for us — ” family members”
When I went with my cat Keysha to hold him and say Goodbye at the end? it was so heartbreaking but the Vet’s assistant spoke to me afterward and helped me to see thru it. She said to be able to say Goodbye to our pets takes SUCH strength and Courage.
By doing so? we are putting our ‘buddies’ first and foremost rather than ‘ourselves’?
She went on to say that far too many people allow the pets to go on for far too long because they are wanting to keep holding onto them and not let them go. But once they are of that age? and/or ill health has taken over? it becomes so difficult for them to continue to stay with us……and it’s painful to see.
Your heart is broken Maurice……. and that will take time to heal…..I do hope that Max will help with that if possible. I’m sure Buck would want that too.
Thanks Jo, nice words. I appreciate them. I guess i’m just going to need more time. I do remember the good times, and how Buck made my life so much better. I just miss him so.
Hi Maurice, I know exactly the pain you are feeling about Buck. I went through it with my beloved cat Polly in April. Well the final decision was in April, but I also worry that I left it too long. She went downhill from I dont really know sitting here thinking about it. But it was the hardest decision I have ever made. But we both made the right ones for our babies 🙁 You cant dwell on it and let it torment you. But I did exactly the same. All I can say is it will pass. It’s only now 6 months later I can think of her with joy and just fond memories, and no pain. You will probably take longer, but the rawness will heal, I promise.
I’m so pleased you are enjoying Max and he is settling in. You and Pam are wonderful caring people and Max really seems to be a great comfort to you 🙂