ays this week and left the house this morning around 4 AM and will get home after I do this evening. (I think Carl likes to leave early because he doesn't have to make the bed!) So before my day goes into high gear, I wanted to thank those of you who took a moment from your lives and shared your thoughts, experiences, and gave support as we wade into the unknown with Tanner. After reading your comments, and also a link provided by "Shelia and Bob" I do think that a bit of dementia has set in for him. Since he's due to have his eyes checked again, I made an appointment for him to see the vet on Thursday. Whenever there's a change in one of our dogs, I think it's a good idea for the vet to see them to make sure nothing is being overlooked.As you know, we have cared for several senior Goldens. But each one as they have reached this tender age and their years start to show, their path becomes unique and different from the one before. I can't help it, I always find myself a bit bewildered as we begin what we know is our final journey together. Of course I don't know how long it will be until it ends. However for now, I don't have to think about that; I firmly believe that despite these "senior moments" Tanner is happy and healthy. We will continue in the direction we've been taking with him and when he unknowingly veers off course we'll be his guide and his compass to help him get headed back in the right direction--Thank-goodness he doesn't drive or cook!
I know what you mean - each dog ages different. Some seem to take it in stride, and others seem to need a little help along the way. I remember a slogan that someone used to remind people to adopt older Goldens - "Old gold is the best" - and I truly believe it!
ReplyDeleteSam
Just getting around to your post on Tanner from yesterday and today. Our old boy Henry did that. I wonder if it just felt good to him to cool off? Yet, Henry did this before in the snow too and you'd think their old bones wouldn't want that.
ReplyDeleteDementia comes to mind..no pun intended.
Ah,bless him..and bless YOU for all that you do for these wonderful creatures!
ReplyDeleteBellaboo :o)
I guess animals get the same problems as us humans when age sets in. How wonderful that Tanner's golden years are filled with love and compassion rather than fear and confusion. He looks pretty happy in that photo ~ I see his smile! :)
ReplyDeletexo Catherine
Sounds like Tanner shall be okay with such loving people at his side.
ReplyDeleteAnd Tanner is very fortunate to have you and Carl.
ReplyDeleteHi Kim
ReplyDeleteHow true your words are about the final journey of each individual doggie - we don't know where the path will turn, but we'll be there for our beloved companions.
Best of luck with Mr Tanner. My senior Apples is giving him an extra lick, as is 2 year old Neeli.
Hugs,
Nadine Apples & Neeli
This is why I love to read your blog. Your love and concern for all living creatures show through every word. May your journey with Tanner be long and peaceful.
ReplyDeleteHe's certainly receiving the best care in the world with you as mum! Has Bubba been swimming again? xxx
ReplyDeleteYes, just keep him happy, healthy, well fed and well loved. You have been his friend.
ReplyDeleteLiz
Kim-that's exactly the attitude we adopted last year with our beloved MoJo. We knew we were in uncharted waters, but we let her tell us what the best path was. We loved her to tears, and because we were so tuned into how she felt we knew the exact moment when things started to go downhill. I will forever be grateful for the weeks I spent feeding her and carrying her outside for potty breaks, and for the weeks she spent by the fireplace, quietly absorbing the love we poured over her. oh, I am crying.
ReplyDeleteBut the point is, she let us know. None of us had ever had spent a lifetime with a dog, and were not prepared for all that we went through with MoJo. But I wouldn't trade it for the world. We are better humans because of the way she touched our lives with her life and in her death..and I know you know exactly what I mean.
Kim;
ReplyDeleteYou said so much with this statement
"I can't help it, I always find myself a bit bewildered as we begin what we know is our final journey together. Of course I don't know how long it will be until it ends. However for now, I don't have to think about that; I firmly believe that despite these "senior moments" Tanner is happy and healthy. We will continue in the direction we've been taking with him and when he unknowingly veers off course we'll be his guide and his compass to help him get headed back in the right direction".
We know Tanner is in the best possible hand and that your helping these senior Goldens is truly a gift from God.
Thank you for sharing and give Tanner a big Hug, and let him know how much he is loved.
Hamish & Rescue Sophie
Hi Kim!
ReplyDeleteGood for the vet to see him! I hope it's nothing except a little forgetfulness. Yes, it's a very good thing that he doesn't drive, cook, take his own pills, or have any responsibilities. He's such a sweet boy! Still think one of those key finders or some such might be a good idea.
XXX
What a tender heart you have to take in "senior" dogs. It takes a special person to do that. God has given you a gift.
ReplyDeleteWoof! Woof! My family is sure learning how to take care of a senior dog like me ... even though I don't act like one ... which they say its good. Thanks for sharing the link... its good to know. Tanner is sure looks good for a senior dog. My mom had tears reading your post ... Lots of Golden LOVE, Hugs n Woofs, Sugar
ReplyDeletenothing else to add
ReplyDeletexxxxx
Our first Springer Spaniel followed much the same path. Like you, we guided her back. She lived quite a while like that, although she had a few accidents because she didn't seem to remember how to know when she needed to go out. So we took her out often and sometimes she knew why and sometimes not.
ReplyDeleteAs time went on, she finally told us it was time. God bless your family and Tanner. Thank goodness he has you to guide him on this journey.
You guys are a very special family for taking in dogs. Thank You for doing what you do.
ReplyDeleteYou are a wonderful compass and we are so glad Tanner has you. Hug that boy for me, okay?
ReplyDeleteOh Kim
ReplyDeleteYou are the guide for Tanner and all of the seniors that you have walked beside.
Sometimes the path
is crooked
and bumpy
and sometimes the storms
fall down on you
yet you find shelter
from those storms
and your heart crys
when you try to listen
to the unspoken words
that can only be seen
in their eyes.
You are the guide
and as you walk
side by side,,,,,,
all that matters is
the love and trust
that is felt by those
big brown eyes.
we cry with you
love
tweedles
Yes - it sounds just like Sam with a bit of dementia - bless him.
ReplyDeleteI'm a bit like that myself but I'm assuming that at 47, it isn't dementia but the dreaded M .... I left Dillon tied up outside a shop & went home without him !!!
Sending lotsaluv to you Kim!
ReplyDeleteI am always thinking of you and you difficult journeys. All I can say is "Thank goodness for people like you!"
MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA
Sending lotsaluv to you Kim!
ReplyDeleteI am always thinking of you and you difficult journeys. All I can say is "Thank goodness for people like you!"
MAXMOM IN SOUTH AFRICA
Thoughts on Tanner - hmm.
ReplyDeleteLove him and he will tell you when it is time. One of our boys began to do the wander and became disorientated he soon let us know it was all a bit much for him.