September 2, 2021

White Dog receives subcutaneous fluids every other afternoon to make sure she stays hydrated. Not a single session takes place without the White Dog Army assembling to offer moral support and calming encouragement. All respectfully surround the bed and quietly watch not just until I (watching the fluid level) give the word and Steve removes the line from her back but until she is softly brushed out and returned to fluffy White Dog splendor. 

Zsofia always takes the point man position settled next to her sister so that White Dog can rest her head on Zso's leg and tail. They together take the long deep breaths needed to pull the solution into WD's body painlessly. If White Dog startles or moves uncomfortably, Zsofia's head lifts and she gives Steve a pointed look; this is a signal for ALL of the WDA to shift to readiness, just in case an intervention would be needed. 

I look around the room and rest my hand on the Little White Dog of My Heart, who like me, is facing the challenges of old age with the most grace she can muster. I am awed by the gentle compassion shown by the rest of the Army; it is based in every day kindnesses and respect, not just for White Dog but for themselves and each other. 

I bear witness to the wisdom of my "animals" and think, "what happened in evolution to make humans forget these essential keys to living together?"