Anyone missing me or my posts? I took a few days off. I would like to say that I have been busy with happy Christmas decorating, but there is something else that has kept me from my laptop. I have been on a perpetual puppy post-op perch. The last post I wrote was on the day after their surgeries, Koda had regained his energy and Summer was emerging from her lethargic fog. That sluggish period ended by sundown on Friday. Nobody told these two dogs that their bodies were opened up and some important parts removed. Aside from Summer’s completely shaved belly and Koda’s missing jingle bells replaced by a small line of stitches, you’d never be able to tell that they were recuperating from surgery.

My instructions from the vet were clearly stated, “Do not allow the dogs to jump up and down off sofas or beds, and no rough play with one another.” The kicker was that somehow I was supposed to keep this environment calm for 10 to 15 days. Ha! I’ve tried everything. We started taking only one dog outside at a time, then switching it up (the dog left inside goes nuts barking). Then I attempted to put them on leashes and go into the yard. They moment they hit the grass their instincts are to dart off in a big game of chase. I quickly corralled them back inside and went back to the turn taking.

If you have ever heard the saying, “Walking a dog solves all problems,” well I have a different one, “Active dogs not walked and kept inside can become very problematic.” It seemed to happen in cycles. They’d rest awhile, then get up and stretch, grab a drink, and then give that “look” at the other dog. It is the frozen stare that dares the other to be the first to move, then a leaping pursuit ensues. The furniture posing no barrier, but rather a jumping off spot or higher ground to escape. Meanwhile I am in the room shouting at them to stop, and calm down. “Summer, no jumping! Koda, lay down! Summer, Koda!” Like a referee in a wrestling ring I wedge myself between them and attempt to settle hold Koda, just as Summer keeps nipping at his tail and any part she can grab with her mouth. “Summer, stop!” This goes on for awhile, as I work to distract with chewies, brushing them, unsuccessfully settle-holding them, and finally grabbing the rubbery treat filled toys to keep them occupied separately.

Just in case you’re wondering if I’ve done the obvious solution of crating them, I have. They are great inside their individual crates, only for so long.My other important directive from the vet was, “try not to let the dogs lick their stitches.” For Koda, this is a tough one, he’s always licked there and is now a bit puzzled at the change in scenery. Plus as their wounds are healing they are probably becoming increasingly irritating. They say day 4 or 5 is the worst. That’s why they both walked around the house in their inflatable donuts yesterday and today. It works for Summer, as she cannot really reach her abdominal area, but Koda’s still found a way.

It comes down to supervision. I am here to keep them busy and “calm” when they are awake, take them on short walks, let one out at a time in the yard, and keep them from fussing at their healing areas. I AM HALF WAY THERE, ONLY SIX MORE DAYS TO GO. At least I am able to be around the house to put up decorations. I’m just hoping these energy-filled cooped-up dogs don’t go crazy on all of the attractive small ornaments hanging within reach.