Further Proof That I Think of My Dogs as Children with Fur

Jack has always been a sensitive sort of pup, but lately, I fear he has far surpassed what one can logically define as sensitivity. Prone to shaking that is actually more like a constant body vibration, he is literally set off by anything and everything, with no discernible pattern or theme. The heat kicks on in the house (which you know, only happens every now and then in the midst of a Chicago winter) and BAM he goes from happily chasing a toy to an immobile statue of trembling fur in the center of our couch. Look at him sternly for any reason? Earthquake worthy shaking. Place a bag of trash behind the gate that blocks his access to the stairs? He'll pace back and forth between the couch and the sight of the bag, nervously licking his lips, pausing intermittently to stare at us mid-shake. Dare to pick up his coat to allow him access to the outdoors to relieve himself? The shaking begins before you've taken a step in his direction.

It's odd, right? Nothing about his routine has changed much, his reality is essentially as pampered as it has been since the day we first introduced him to life as a cherished fur-babe. And he still exhibits behavior that we recognize as wholly HIM---he stands at the edge of his toy-filled basket and barks, looking at us as if to say, you don't think I'M going to reach in there MYSELF, do you?, brings us toys and happily fetches them for long stretches of time, wakes us in the morning by wedging himself happily between our sleeping forms, alternately licking us until we wake and play, taunting Cooper into games of chase and tug-of-war---but more and more, he makes us consider the benefits of doggie prozac.

I know there is such a thing; I've heard many stories of anxiety ridden pups lapping it up with peanut butter, calming down, returning once again to puppy bliss. But the thing is, it seems ridiculous even to consider such a thing. He isn't hyperactive or dangerous to himself or others. In truth, the whole thing is probably way more worrisome and disruptive to us than it is to him. But still, it is undeniable that his eccentric behavior is worsening, not improving. We're learning to take it in stride, not immediately rush over to him all "oh what's the matter bugger bear" like, but rather keep on keeping on, easy does it, normal is good and all that jazz.

And in case you were wondering, yes, I do in fact realize it is abnormal to have these sort of thoughts and wondering about ones dog, but it is no surprise to any who know me that Jack is much more than a "dog." He's our firstborn child with fur, our source of love and light and endless laughter, and I'd certainly do whatever I could to ensure his little fur encased world was free of fear and worry.

Excuse me while I go and give him another cookie and an enthusiastic belly rub.

Comments

[TheNextMartha]

I think it's sweet that your dog is your child.