The fact that they live such short lives is very difficult. I had to say goodby to my 15 year old Shih Tzu a couple of years ago. It's so hard and while Gracie is still young I know how fast the time can seem to go.
I never felt fear when walking a dog in public until I had Gracie. A child or large dog approaching at a rapid pace is frightening. You don't know their intent and I usually pick her up with a racing heart when that happens.
Leaving her for long periods is difficult. I don't do it very often but when I do she is shaking when I get home. It makes me feel awful. It has to be done and she gets over it after a short time. My daughter has told me how Gracie pouts while I'm gone for short periods of time. She lays with her head on her paws and watches the door. She's a good little silly dog and there is nothing that is really bad about having her. |