Anyone who has followed my blog knows that we have had yellow labs for most of our lives. There was Sandy, Summer, Sally and Sadie. They have brought the whole family much joy and enrichment. When Sadie died last winter, my husband and I felt a tremendous void. After all, Sadie gave us 12 wonderful years and we were grateful that she did not suffer much at the end of her days. My husband and I agree that we should wait on getting another dog and to definitely go with an older one since we both had medical conditions and puppy hood seemed out of the question.
Well, it only took about two months before I was on the hunt for a lab to bring in the house and provide some entertainment and joy. Sophie joined our family last June, an eight-week old yellow lab, who has been a joy and a bundle of energy. She has kept us active, made us laugh and, yes, changed our lives.
If you are a pet lover, you get it. If not, I understand your confusion and dismay. After all, why would someone with a movement disorder who falls often bring home an active, very active, puppy? Well, there are only a few good reasons….she brings joy, purpose and fun to our lives.
Sophie, now 10 months old, has been a wonderful addition to our daily routine. With Parkinson’s, I am always cognizant of the risk of falling, but I have learned, through physical therapy, how to balance myself and how to fall without breaking bones. Having a puppy around, I have used my newly acquired fall-prevention skills. They work!!!!
Finally, it is important to remember that life goes on with or without a pet. However, it you have been a pet lover before your diagnosis, do not let your condition stop you from having one. After all, your pet provides unconditional love and you especially can use that now! Woof……
