memories of ducks?The seasons are in that awkward stage: too cool to be summer; too warm to be fall. And the sun playing tag with the clouds makes the day almost menopausal.
This was the Saturday I was going to take Jiggs to the beach -- his favorite place in Oregon. A little back story is in order.
This past week was really rough for The Professor. In the course of two days, he had lost almost all the strength in his back legs. He would struggle to his feet only after minutes of trying. But, proud dog that he is, if I would try to help him, he would throw himself on the lawn and not try again until I went away. Even his eyes were losing their love of life.
I decided to take him to the vet on Wednesday and to ask the vet for his advice on whether it was time to put Jiggs down or whether the hospice effects of another steroid shot would be effective. I appreciate his opinion because his dog is going through the exact issues. He suggested trying out another steroid shot, because Jiggs is exhibiting no pain symptoms; his legs simply are not working very well.
I am glad I did. By Friday, Jiggs was back to his usual pattern of wanting to go for walks -- and he is getting up with only a little problem.
But not well enough to traverse the beach. I remember our last walk. Even then, he was having trouble walking through the sand. I decided if I took him to the beach, he would simply be frustrated that he could not spend time in the surf.
So, we have stayed here to enjoy a walk in Jiggs's park on this cusp of summer-fall.
I was thinking yesterday about the lasts that I am experiencing -- My last public speech. My last Fourth of July. My last house payment. -- before I move to Mexico. I then realized that Jiggs is going through the same thing. He just does not realize it. Because he knows how to live in Mexico time -- enjoying the now.
We can learn from our pets on this path.
