Another Gotcha! day for Achilles
I adopted honourary Lab Achilles, aka Chili Dog, from a central Texas shelter. You can read the adoption backstory here.
Here we are, 12 years on. He's at least 14, possibly 18 (though we doubt that). His fur suit is a little whiter, he has left a few teeth at the doggy dentist, sleeps a little more, is less cold tolerant, needs Deramaxx for gradually advancing spondilosis[sp?]. And yet . . .
He still wants to eat, wants to go for rides, wants to go out, occasionally plays with Fitzi or a squeeky toy.
Every dog needs, should have, a job. A perceptive dog owner will figure out what that job is and to help him or her do that job. Chili's job has been to be a calming, restful presence.
He and I recently went to the States for several days to visit people going through a rough time. Achilles was a therapy dog, helping them decompress and let go of some of their stress.
A few photos.
His current favourite toy, a quacking duck Faye bought him.
https://uniim1.shutterfly.com/ng/ser...438832/enhance
Relaxing during our recent trip.
https://uniim1.shutterfly.com/ng/ser...078412/enhance
Sticking his tongue out at life.
https://uniim1.shutterfly.com/ng/ser...441274/enhance
God, fate, karma, what have you, brought him into our lives. It has been an honour and a privilege to be his owners. Our lives have been immeasurably enriched.