If you don't already know, VOMD and I recently took in a dog who has a number of health issues. He is settling into our home in Hamilton and is scheduled to see a specialist on Monday this coming week. We are very hopeful about his future, but it is difficult to see him feeling so unwell and knowing that his future is uncertain.
Last year I lost two of my animal friends due to old age and ongoing illnesses. Glenn the rabbit and Bobby Joe the guinea pig, were both getting up in years when I adopted them, but that didn't make their deaths easier to deal with. Losing Glenn especially, who was my cuddle friend, and such a sweet gentle girl, was very traumatizing. Losing a friend is always heartbreaking, but in the case of Toojoh, knowing that no matter what you do it is possible it will not be enough, is very hard to deal with. A very wise and kind friend told me last night, though, that I must remember to be present. Be joyful that he is with us and that he is happy. Don't get caught up thinking about possible futures. I'm going to try to take her advice.
I am lucky to have friends and family who are supportive of my decision to care for Toojoh, and who have always been supportive of my choices to care for animals in the past. We had some friends over for my birthday yesterday and it always feels nice to be around people who love and support you. Also, so far our campaign to raise money for Toojoh's vet bills and medication has had a few generous donors who have definitely given us more hope for this beautiful boy.
But I still cry a lot and try to steal myself away from him if I start to get sad. I want him to only be surrounded by joy and kindness. Animals, like small children, don't need to hear their caregiver cry about them. And animals are particularly receptive to emotions.
I'm trying not to be sad, and VOMD is making it easier for me to keep a smile on my face throughout this time.
If you would like to donate to Toojoh's campaign you can visit https://www.gofundme.com/Toojoh or if you prefer you can send an email money transfer to fraser.johanna (at) gmail.com
Happy Wednesday, folks.
-J
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