Over the weekend, my friend and I took his puppies for a walk in the snow. We went to a local park and the puppies were rocking the snow for much of the trip – until the girl puppy dropped to the ground and began gnawing at her feet. The snow and ice had gotten between her toes and she was hurting. So, my friend picked her up and carried her for a bit and I took charge of the boy dog. Pretty soon, the boy dog was doing the same thing. So, I picked him up and carried him. The little ball of fur was warm, but heavy, and I set him down after a bit to see how he was doing. He was okay for a bit, but then got distressed again. I carried him the rest of the way to the car and I think he appreciated the effort. The pups didn’t have any side effects, but some booties may be appropriate for the next trip out.
Also that weekend I reached a new understanding with my cat. He loves me dearly – but sometimes that love must be expressed as pain. So, belly rub -> claws and teeth. Sitting on my lap -> back feet to my groin as he leaps off. Sleeping next to my head in bed -> sneezing on my head. (not really painful, but gross). Feeding time -> hand bitten. (isn’t there a rule about that?) Holding paws (my favorite thing he does) -> claws randomly extended.
We’re buddies and I love him right back. And I accept that his love comes at a cost. It’s all worth it when I can holler “Thunder Cat, hooooooooo!” and he comes running.
When he feels like it.