DOGGIE MELTDOWN

Even well meaning family “enhancement” sometimes can end in utter disaster. Such was the case this past weekend.

Up ‘til now, all the pieces we’ve put in place to connect with each other and our larger families have worked extremely well – meeting and even far exceeding all of our expectations. But when it came to the second meeting with the (wonderful) dog trainer to help Keegan, our Cairn terrier, with his troubling fears, well, it ended with an emergency trip to the doggie doctor.

Picture two dogs, excited by a new person paying them lots of attention. Picture treats being given out right and left as rewards for positive behaviors. (New and tasty treats!) Picture one dog getting in the way of the other. Picture the testosterone flowing whenever two brothers play together excitedly. 

Picture a match to dry kindling.

It’s not like they’ve never fought before. Normally they get along well. In their more than a decade together they've only had a few serious spats. But never one like this one. This one ended with us rushing off to VCA to find the first available vet. Riley had some cuts around his eye and some serious bleeding. That’s not anything to mess around with, so off we went barreling down Powers Run Road, trying to arrive at the vet’s office before they closed for the weekend.

All turned out well. The damage was minimal. Riley and Keegan are getting along famously, with their usual love and affection. Lee and Deb are shaken, but resolute, even more aware than ever of how combustible families can be. 

!