210/365: Scavengers


Although it gets a little old reminding the dogs not to jump up while Isaac is eating, I know I would definitely miss their vacuuming services if they weren't around after mealtime!
The puppy with the brown face had another large vet bill for his epilepsy today. We've been struggling with what to do with him. Having a dog with epilepsy dictates a lot of how we live our lives, due to his need for meds on an every 12 hour schedule. It's been an ongoing dialogue about how he really, really takes a lot of effort and due to his condition oftentimes the benefits traditionally associated with having a dog aren't realized in day to day life with him. It is incredibly easy to focus on the annoyances of his behaviors and the hindrance he puts on activities. However, I spent a good couple hours today researching what options we have. Apart from some magical perfect family with older children showing up on our doorstep and wanting to take him home, I couldn't come up with an option that didn't leave me feeling guilty. Most always, though there are exceptions, I feel that when you take on a pet you are accepting them into your family, and I just can't reconcile myself to any options that could result in a less than happy life for him.
So, I'm determined to spend more time petting him and enjoying him. Isaac absolutely adores the dog, and Owen loves him right back. He is one of the sweetest dogs you'll ever find, there isn't a mean bone in his body. If I focus on the positives I'm hoping that my attitude about him will change. Here's hoping :)

3 comments:

Courtney said...

Stay positive!! I love Owen and would take him if I could :O)

Shannon Joy said...

Sounds like you have the perfect attitude!

Alison said...

You sound like the perfect dog mama. I can't imagine how difficult that is. He's lucky to have you and your family.