It's a gorgeous day here in TN...deceptively so with the sun shining so brightly. Makes one think that it's a warm Spring day, but the wind is chill, and I'm huddled up next to the woodstove. :)
I've had some queries as to how Badger is doing. He's still hanging in there. The past few days he's been a bit worse in his disorientation, and I think his hearing is getting worse. He has a hard time following my voice and finding me now. In light of his not being able to 'find' me, I'm virtually tied to his small area of sensibility. His voice has changed so much, and when he can't 'find' me, he just sits and makes the saddest sound you've ever heard. I am more and more confined at home unless Randy is here. If he's home, I grab that opportunity to run out for groceries, meds, etc. However, nothing lasts for ever, and this won't either.
His appetite, however, has not diminished one whit! He's a whopping 21 lbs. now, which presents another set of problems. His weight gain, and Dewey's serious walking issues, have me carrying BOTH of them in and out. Hence, my lower back issues have revved up into high gear. This is definitely not the 'fun' part of having pets, but I am grateful that they are small enough that I CAN pick them up. What would I do if they were larger dogs?
Badger had adjusted quite well to his blindness, but he seems to be losing the ability to 'sense' that he's about to walk into furniture or corners that he's been able to avoid up until about three days ago. He breaks my heart by getting 'caught' in corners and he can't find his way out.
He and Dewey both are having a hard time letting me know that they need to go out, so unless I pay constant attention and take them out every 2-3 hours, I'm washing floors.
It's not an easy situation, but Badger still has too much life left for me to be able to make a decision to put him to sleep. If and when his pain level gets worse, then that would be the time for me to consider that. Until then, until I KNOW that he's ready to go, I will continue to take care of him and love him.
The Bluebirds are beginning to nest, and the Swallows are trying to decide which rental house they want. I've picked up needle and thread again, and have been doing some applique. My niece, Glorie, was here last weekend for the annual Pigeon Forge Quilt Show, which we attended on Friday, and we each made an apron over the weekend. :) Lots of fun.
For the last week, I've been spending several hours a day volunteering at my local vet clinic helping introduce those adorable Beagle puppies to collars and leash. What better therapy could a dog lover have?? :)
