Stay home, stay safe

Mummy likes to read when she stays home, and fortunately there's a great new book out by a fellow dog and companion animal blogger, Dr. Zazie Todd. I have been enjoying her blog, Companion Animal Psychology for many years now, because it helps you keep up to date on the latest scientifically researched understandings of dogs and helps me think how it applies to my own experience with rescued setters. I'm glad I got Wag to enjoy during the covid pandemic, as the university classes have been bumped another two weeks. 
She has chapters separated by topics related to the whole spectrum of a dog's life, each time offering clear facts and relevant data to help you understand what science tells us about what dogs need, experience and want. Food for thought and a font of wisdom, so refreshing in these times. Way to go, Zazie!
With my beloved Nobunaga an ageing boy,  I'm particularly interested in the chapter "Seniors and dog with special needs".

Aging affects all of the dog's systems. Some of the changes are visible to us: a coat that's less bright than it used to be, less muscle, some changes to sleep patterns, and changes in how often they come to interact with us....It's important to help elderly dogs remain part of the family and continue to have the kinds of experiences they enjoy..." (pp.216-17)

For sure Nobu doesn't go on such long walks because he stumbles and his bones ache, and he knows if he goes too far afield I can't carry him home, so in his wisdom he makes loops around the house, doing a longer loop or a couple of shorter loops if he has the stamina, or just one short loop if he doesn't feel up to it. 

 And he still likes to play, with a shorter attention span and less bumptious enthusiasm...but a wee chew on some cherry twigs is a great game, Mum, thanks. Staying home is just right for Nobunaga and us as a family, with Sherlock getting an extra walkies in the morning just for himself. Stay at home, knit, read, cook (ooh yes mum, more of those chicken cartilage and cabbage stir-fries) and play with your setter babies, all will be well. Blessings be.