Red is almost totally blind, and he can’t run far.
He has lost much of his drive and authority.
The sheep pay some attention to him, but not much.
It is important to me that Red keep his dignity and sense of purpose, he very much wants to come out into the pasture and do what he can do. I don’t ask him to do much.
Today was a good example of his pride and also his limits. He wanted to move the sheep back from the Pole Barn, as he always did.
Liam and the sheep lay in front of him, and didn’t move. Red never let the sheep get this close to him, and they would have been up and on their feet in a flash if he got this close.
There was a standoff, and Red and Liam just stared at each other for the longest time. Red wouldn’t back off or quit, Liam wouldn’t get up. I told Red to “walk up” and he did.
Liam got up and he sheep left the pole barn. I was proud of Red, and yes, troubled too.
But I want him to work as much as he can, every day if he can. I know that’s what he wants, and I know that’s what is good for him. He is now having trouble going up and down stairs, and I think he will soon have to sleep downstairs at night.
Given Red’s spinal condition, there is always some risk in having him work near the sheep. Some people are not happy with me for doing this. I’m good with it. I never let other people make important decisions for me.
My motto in life is I do the best I can for as long as I can.
good for Red, and for you! He does what he can…..and what he needs to do……until he can no longer do it. It makes me happy to see that you are allowing him to *access* his spirit and purpose. I have always found the aging dog to be a great challenge (for me). Do you shelter and over protect, which is normally my first inclination…… or do you allow them to pretty much pace/self limit themselves (within reason). For me, it has always been a fine line……I’m working on it still. I believe you are doing the right thing for your cherished companion. Please plant a kiss right on top of his head for me (although I know he won’t like it) LOL!
With each cat or dog that I have had to euthanize, I wanted them to be who they were. When the dignity and pride is nearly gone, I know it is time to let them go. Even one more day is probably for me, not for them and I love them more than that. Over the years, you have confirmed that with each dog we loved along with you. But the decision is yours alone because you do love them that much.
When our Chesapeake was 14 yrs, he barely could get around. We knew it was time but we took him on a final camping trip and fed him lots of good food. He was a very content dog and his passing, while hard, felt just a bit better for that trip. They need to still feel of use to us. My English Cocker will be 13 on Thursday and still hikes almost every day with me.