Day 1191

Today was “Spa Day” for the Golden Boys. First Sam, then Gus and finally Ranger braved the “treatment”. Special medicated shampoo and conditioner, a Waterpik water wand, a mountain of fluffy towels and our salon-quality fur blower were our tools of attack. Once we got them into position, they loved it!

The reason for this particular “Spa Day” was to calm their spirits and treat their hot spots and rashes. It would seem, according to the veterinarian, that losing Lilly has caused some of these physical ailments. All three now have had allergy shots and medication to soothe their skin reactions…possibly due to stress. Poor boys.

We all react to loss, stress and anxiety in our own way. Whether we become ill, have insomnia, change our eating habits or a host of other reactions, it seems to be a way to deal with our emotions. I, for one, tend to react with gusto! Eventually, everything settles down, but in the meantime, it helps to focus on the issue at hand. It is hard to not lay blame at the feet of the cause when you react in a big way.

Instead of pushing forward and blocking emotions, we should acknowledge them, embrace them and give in to our natural reactions. They eventually subside, but it seems they help us to face reality… not always a desired response, but a necessary one.

So, our three clean, adorable and calm pups will be watched closely as we weather their storm. Sometimes, you just need to let go of the reins for a bit and allow life take the lead as you slow down and heal. Ranger might just agree with that philosophy AND also would recommend a Spa Day for all!