Totally makes sense.
The last night with my Lab was one of the worst, if not THE worst night of my life. He was in so much pain from his hip and there was nothing I could do to help him. We were up all night together. I already had him so doped up with painkillers, natural valerian calming supplements, etc. I was just praying for the morning to come so the vet would get to my house. I had to carry him out to potty the last 2 days because he couldn't manage the stairs. That night his one remaining hind leg just couldn't hold him up anymore at all, so he wouldn't poop. After trying one more time and carrying him back in the house again (I knew he had to go, but wouldn't go while laying down in the grass), I laid him down on the carpet while I took off my coat. I heard a toot and thought "uh, oh" and he had pooped a little on the floor, but when I looked at him, he had such a horrified look in his eyes it broke my heart. I just told him "It's OK Bear. Go potty." and with my permission, he did. I can't explain the look in his eyes. Some would say he just couldn't hold it anymore and would have gone anyway, but if you would have seen the look in his eyes... trusting that it really was OK and then no sign of guilt for going on the floor (like would have normally happened), just relief. I don't know, it sounds stupid, but in that moment I felt like there was perfect understanding between us.
That dog knew so much, and loved us so much, and was so loyal. The smartest dog I'll probably ever have. No one will ever convince me that they don't love and understand way more than most people give them credit for.
Quote:
Originally Posted by
cecosugi
Not corny at all. I can't tell you how many times I've sat through traumatic animal experiences and seen that look in their eyes. Compassion and loyalty are the best traits in man AND beast. If there was more of that in the world, there would be far fewer rescues.
