September 6, 2012

White Dog is feeling a tad bittersweet for the days when she was an only child. With an Army of six it seems there is always some need to meet or physical issue to care for. And everyone always wants to be together... where Steve and I are. But what happens when it all gets a little claustrophobic and you just want time to yourself without somepup coming looking for you?

WD has been spending lots of time this week behind the chairs, in "her" space hiding out from the world. Her pulled muscle has made her less inclined to jump up on the watching chair or to sit at my shoulder (she is not limping and is just sore). She has been rude to any of her siblings who peek back to say "hi" and seems uninterested in what is going on with the rest of the White Dog Army.

When everyone else is napping she will venture forth to visit me in the office but stays only long enough for a brief conversation and some gentle stroking. At dinner time, the Little White Dog of My Heart insists on sitting next to Steve on the sofa (he lifts her up) where he coaxes and hand feeds her.She has an appetite but seems to appreciate the extra attention.

She is not without personal time with Steve who takes her every morning for her own adventure in the neighborhood or walk or lets her loose to help wash the car (or share some other task). WD is the only White One who sleeps on the bed with us, pressed along my legs or resting on the pillows.

I do understand her need; I have five sisters whose mere presence drove me to distraction at many points of my life. Like me, I hope my girl is just going through a phase of needing some privacy. I try not to push her but there is a part of me that wants to use my command voice and make her come for come cuddling and love. But then I remember and repeat over and over to myself...Love is patient.

The hardest thing is explaining to the rest of the White Dog Army that White Dog is not mad at them and that she will be back to her old self soon. All they have ever known since coming here is the Army and it is almost impossible for them to imagine not being together.