When I had my first Lab, Cassie Jo I remember how my husband John would not allow her in the living room. One evening I was not feeling well, and was lying on the sofa. Little by little Cassie Jo crept into the living room, eventually ending up next to me and lying on the floor. That was it– dogs were now allowed in the living room.
Though the new rule was that she could not be on the furniture. When she was sick with cancer she decided the big red chair was the most comfortable place to be. Who was I to deny her that comfort? And I realized that first day I found her on the chair that it is only furniture. It can be replaced. But the love of an animal can never ever be replaced and how lucky I was to have her in my life.
Frankie and I spent many times together on the sofa. I love to read, so she was always my snuggle buddy, curled up next to me. She was also the best weekend napping partner a girl could ask for. It still feels odd not having her next to me as I read each night or take a nap.
About two weeks ago, Kylie started to come in the living room and lying on the floor. This is interesting, because she has never done this before. I certainly can’t speak for her and say why she has now taken up coming in the living room to lie on the floor, but I must say it is rather comforting to me. Does she sense I am missing Frankie? Is she trying to comfort me? I’ll never really know, but it makes me feel good when she does this.
Last night I sat next to her on the floor, and pet her chest. I love her strong, soft chest. I also smooched the sides of her snout, which she is not always open to having done. It was a wonderfully, warm 15 minutes of quality, bonding time with her. Whatever her reasons for being in the living room, I am enjoying her company and thankful for all that she is. Good dog, Kylie. Good dog.