I was thinking about Bella's affinity for edges. She seeks the edge of the road and the edge of the yard, nervously clinging to the line that she perceives. Crossing the road is done rapidly, as she eagerly seeks the line to walk next to. I imagine her in her cage, the small box that she lived in for most of her life. It was a square or rectangle; defined by edges. Now, finding herself in the vast space of the world, she looks to see the edge again. First uncomfortable confinement, and now the terrifying freedom- this is my prayer for you, Bella: May you learn to move easily in the openness of your boundless world.
Yesterday the kindest of vets, Dr. Sarah, visited us in preparation for the use of anti-anxiety medication. Bella cooperated with Sarah despite her fear. I thought it best to bring Bella outside for the exam in order to reserve the sanctity of her room, and so that she would stand for the exam. Although she did not accept the chicken treat bribe, Bella tolerated Sarah's touch and even made some eye contact with her. Through out the gentle procedure, Bella tracked me, turning her head woefully after me if I stepped inside for a moment. Afterwards, I thought I would give Bella a walk, but when I opened the door to get my boots, she tore inside frantically. She knew enough to stop briefly in the foyer, allowing me to disconnect her leash, before retreating to her room, which she then did, in great haste. From the safety of her bed, Bella finally ate her chicken, and rested, panting. Since Dr. Sarah's visit, she has shortened her walk slightly, and tucked her tail a bit more.
Yesterday the kindest of vets, Dr. Sarah, visited us in preparation for the use of anti-anxiety medication. Bella cooperated with Sarah despite her fear. I thought it best to bring Bella outside for the exam in order to reserve the sanctity of her room, and so that she would stand for the exam. Although she did not accept the chicken treat bribe, Bella tolerated Sarah's touch and even made some eye contact with her. Through out the gentle procedure, Bella tracked me, turning her head woefully after me if I stepped inside for a moment. Afterwards, I thought I would give Bella a walk, but when I opened the door to get my boots, she tore inside frantically. She knew enough to stop briefly in the foyer, allowing me to disconnect her leash, before retreating to her room, which she then did, in great haste. From the safety of her bed, Bella finally ate her chicken, and rested, panting. Since Dr. Sarah's visit, she has shortened her walk slightly, and tucked her tail a bit more.
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