Day 458

My first attempt at posting "Walking With Goldens" was lost in the atmosphere during a posting mishap! "Little boys, rocks and rivers" will reappear down the road at some point, but I decided there must have been a reason that post disappeared. Tonight, as I prepared dinner and medicine for these hooligans, I began to feel the real story that was to be told.

These precious pups dictate our life. In the past, children, occupations and other important events were the focus. Although we still have involvements with family and friends, these Goldens guide every move we make.

*Who needs to go out?

*Where do we sequester the younger two when leaving for a bit?

*Did everyone get their medicine?

*What kind of vehicle can carry four Goldens and everything else?

*Are they warm enough? Are they too warm?

*Did they get their heartworm and tick medication?

*Is the pavement too hot for puppy feet?

*Is it time for another allergy shot?

*Are there any more snarls in that fur?

*Do I smell an ear infection?

*What classes do the young ones need to become Therapy Dogs?

*Can we travel? Who will stay with them?

*Do they get enough individual time with us?

*Are there enough doggy beds? Toys? Water bowls?

The list of questions goes on, but the important thing is the fact that we constantly ask those questions. Our pets are family, but our Goldens are family with a job. Therapy Dog work is a passion and a gift. We all love the encounters, but we must safeguard their health and happiness so that they may pass the love on to others.

There are people who probably shake their heads and say, "Those people are a little too obsessed with their dogs!" We worry that we are not obsessed enough.

We will continue to do whatever we can to keep them happy, healthy and dishing out loving therapy right and left. It seems they are making this world a better place simply by sharing their furry affection. If someone had told me, ten years ago, that I would be spending a huge portion of my retirement at the end of a leash, I would have questioned their sanity. Now, although I sometimes question my own, I wouldn't have it any other way.