Our Black Dog has had his sister by his side for every step of his recovery. This was only about a week post-surgery.
Since we've been home, the Duo have been so sweet - they are inseparable. Their attitudes have helped make the recovery period easier for us. Neither Shyla nor R seem notice that anything has changed. And, in reality, R is the same exuberant and loving dog as he always was.
We've been taking care of another black dog over the past week. Her name is CeCe. The bond between our Duo has been so apparent, as they cling to each other while CeCe remains nearby. They all get along wonderfully but they are a Duo and One, rather than a trio.
Shyla is so bonded to R (as you can see in the photo) that we really worry about how she'll get by when he's no longer around. Shyla is four years younger so the likelihood is that she'll outlive R. Over Shyla's whole life as a fearful dog, R has been her rock. He gives her courage and confidence when they're out in the world together. We've thought about getting a young dog now to ease that transition when it comes but we're not sure that a younger dog can play that same role. I'd love to hear any thoughts that you might have about this. I'm betting that some of you have had similar situations.
 |
| Shyla doesn't like people to look straight at her. One solution is to hide behind her brother literally and figuratively. |
For now, we'll celebrate our Black Dog. He has lots of life ahead of him, and we're planning to enjoy it!
Happy Black Dog Sunday!
They are so sweet together and I hope they have each other for a long, long time.
ReplyDeleteMom has never had 2 dogs that are as closely bonded as the two of you are. We just love the two of you♥
ReplyDeleteI always read every post. I seldom comment. but please know there are many of us out here that value every single thing you share. your photography is breathtaking. and it all warms my heart. and if ever we all needed your natural wisdom and love for life ~ it's now! thank you for being you.
ReplyDeleteThank you so very much. Your comment means the world to me!
DeleteOMDs R and Shyla you are making my heart melt...your Mom captured a beautiful photo.
ReplyDeleteDid I miss something? You have a new Family member CeCe....OMDs or perhaps did I speed read over her arrival. She is quite beautiful too. R sure does have a spring in his step and Shyla's eyes are all aglow with brotherly love
Hugs Cecilia
That sweet visitor has just gone home. We were taking care of her while her family was out of town. We miss her already.
DeleteHari om
ReplyDeleteSimply gorgeous... afraid am not able to offer advice re the younger dog choice as was never faced with that choice. It is something that is likely to be veru individual, though I can say that couple I knew in Sydney twice went thru the intro of next gen dogs quite successfully (Siberians). YAM xx
It is so lovely to hear how well the Black Dog is doing!
ReplyDeleteIn this family, the situation is a little different because we have inter-species bonding. My cats all adore my dog, Tommy. He is their shield and their comfort. He is also older than them and I too worry.
No....we've always added a younger dog to the pack, so no one is ever left alone. Scotties tend to be cat-like and don't seem to have the closeness of other breeds.
ReplyDeletethese photos just touched me to the bottom of my heart, Shyla's head on R's back just melts my heart.. so sweet. it is good to have the 3rd dog around, for her to get used to having another dog. she will need one someday I think.
ReplyDeleteThe two of them touch my heart. Samson was Errol's dog and he missed his dad terribly. Faith was a good distraction for him, helping him heal. She's five years younger than him, but would be fine without him. I think it depends on their personality, she's a tough dog, looking out for number one at all times. None of our other dogs seemed to have any problems with losing one of the pack. I think Shyla, being insecure and relying on R so much would probably really miss him. As with Samson and Faith, a younger dog may serve as a good distraction and a playful companion. But I'm sure that's way in the future.
ReplyDeleteThey are gorgeous together and love each other so much. I don't know if adding a third dog would ease the transition. It would change a perfect dynamic. Just my opinion.
ReplyDeleteWe're glad to hear R is doing so well after his surgery.
ReplyDeleteCeCe is beautiful. We bet the Duo enjoyed having her there. Ciara was lost without Thunder when we lost him so suddenly. We already had Lightning but their bond was different. We have three now. Lightning is 7, Misty is 2 and Timber is 1. The two young ones are very closely bonded but they are so close in age that is to be expected. Not sure what to suggest in your case. But we are always in favor of a trio.:) If you added a new one, you would probably want to have a dog with a great temperament to make it easier for Shyla to connect. Confident but sweet. Strong but super friendly.
ReplyDeleteCelebrating that bond is what it's all about, and I love the connection that Shyla and R have. I totally understand the thinking ahead that you're doing, I would be doing it too. I say to trust your instincts and follow your heart as far as adding another dog. You will know when it's right, and if the new addition will be the companion that Shyla may need.
ReplyDeleteI've got to say, R looks really good! I am so glads it went well, and he is a-okay! Gosh, I have nothing of value to add abouts another puppers ~ butts I thinks you will know what to do. every relationship is unique, I don't think Shyla will have the same connection with another dog that she has with R, butts maybe she'll surprise you at becoming a leader with a new pup. You will know in your gut what is the right move.
ReplyDeleteKisses,
Ruby ♥
Your photos show there is much to celebrate. 😍
ReplyDeleteYou know your dogs best but ... maybe a young dog would give Shyla a chance to be the big sister and that way make her stronger and more confident?
ReplyDeletetheir bond is so beautiful.
ReplyDeletehugs
Hazel & Mabel
I think that R has taught Shyla confidence, and that she will retain what she has gained while he is here. If they are so bonded, I wonder if another dog would end up being left out kind of like CeCe when she was there. When we had three dogs, I always felt like one often got left out. But maybe when R has slowed down more might be the right time. Right now it is so great to see them both doing so well!! ♥
ReplyDelete