In the morning, Red comes with me into my study while I work on my books and my blog. He usually sleeps behind me while I work. Gus has been coming in after our chores and daily walk, and he has been sleeping right next to my feet.
Red has completely ignored Gus since he came, it’s almost as if he hasn’t noticed him. But in the last few days, something changed. Red has been moving over to where Gus sleeps and putting his head down right next to the puppy.
It feels like acceptance and connection to me, Red seems to be offering himself to Gus for support and companionship. Gus loves it and doesn’t move. A nice thing for me to see when I work. Red has a big heart and soul, he is innately generous.
Dogs do things in their own way, with their own language, in their own time. I can’t say I know for sure what has happened, but it feels good to me.
I’ve always thought our dogs can sense what we their owners value – be it a newborn or a new puppy. Our actions, though, have a lot to do with how they respond – acceptance or jealousy. Whatever you and Maria have been communicating seems to be working just fine
The words of Wordsworth, instantly came in view as I read this amazing post…and for that reason, I must let them comment well. I’m almost too stirred by it. Thank you Jon, for such a lovely pondering.
My heart leaps up when I behold
A rainbow in the sky:
So was it when my life began;
So is it now I am a man;
So be it when I shall grow old,
Or let me die!
The Child is father of the Man;
And I could wish my days to be
Bound each to each by natural piety.
I find this so touching
Seems to me Red appreciates the fact that Gus respects him, leaves him alone, admires him from afar and doesn’t annoy him like pups sometimes do with older dogs. I’m really enjoying watching Gus grow and interact with all the other animals. He is a special pup and sure fits in so well with the Bedlam Farm crew. I love seeing him interact with the Mansion folks too. He is a special little guy.
Thanks, he has adapted rather quickly, he is winning the creates over one by one..Only Flo consistently rejects him..we’ll see. Red is getting easy with him but pays very little attention.
I love this picture, my favorite…..beautiful Red, friends at last with Gus.
I love your blog and look forward to it every day. The work and help you and Maria provide to the Mansion and the refugees is heartwarming and giving. I love the stories on the animals. Thank you for sharing your life.
I wonder if perhaps, Red is coming to terms with Gus. It might be that he has finally accepted Gus as a permanent presence that is getting loads of attention. Is he quietly jealous? That might be harder to determine because Red is such a stoic….but he might be closer to Gus to try and hold close to you!
they are all a credit to you and Maria, they are so lucky to have you as their guardians
A heart-wrenching, tear-jerking life story about the wood carver. I wept as I read it. So beautifully written.