In a previous post, I shared about caregiving. In the post, I outlined a possible class focusing on the different components of caregiving. I need to add another session and title it, ” Animal Caregiving Connections”.
The exciting arrival of our new granddaughter, Julia Penelope, means we are on dog duty for an undetermined amount of time. Our official duties began when the parents-to-be transferred the pets to our van at the hospital. Meowing and whining sounds filled the van. I am convinced that animals also get homesick.
Not pleased to be moved to a new location, the cat hissed at me upon its placement in the office. I decided to treat it like a sullen child and leave it alone. It often attempted little escapes throughout its stay to other parts of the house, but we would not allow it to freely roam.
While taking Juneau, the young Irish Setter, on frequent hikes in the forest, I thought about our pastor’s recent sermon on animals. Since a specific creature decided to tear up my notes, I asked him to resend them. One point was that God created animals to allow us to marvel at His creation. I do marvel at these pets and how God created them so differently. I find myself appreciating our own dog, mature and obedient, in different ways now. Juneau even talks back to me! I do not marvel at this at all!
While taking care of these animals, I found myself thinking about Noah. How in the world did he and his family take care of all those animals without becoming irritated and wanting to escape to an animal-free location? I reread Genesis 7 to see if there were any hints of irritation or annoyance. Nothing. I only have three animals and he had a plethora of all kinds!
As I continue to care for the animals, I also find myself thinking about caregiving for people and how it’s similar. First, you make many sacrifices. At around 9 PM, Juneau starts her “Wild Hour”. She runs around like crazy, makes grunting noises, and often whines. We decided to set the lawn chairs on our driveway and let her get the wildness out. We never set the lawn chairs on our driveway. In fact, I always think it’s strange when people do this. I also cannot get a lot of regular projects done because I am always thinking about the dog and cat. Glancing around, I see piles of unfinished projects waiting to be done. Without going into details, I had to use the carpet cleaner. Sigh. Two household items broke. Another sigh.
Second, consistency is important. After a forest hike, her paws are wet and muddy. I have quickly realized that a consistent pattern of wiping down her paws and fur helps my irritation with a messy house decrease. Along with consistency is a daily schedule. The schedule allows me to get things done. When I take the time for walks and playtime, the dog seems to nap more. Just like a mother of a toddler, I love nap-time!
Third, the power of rewards cannot be ignored. When I use treats, the dog listens better. I use them as a distraction when she is disobedient. I think back to my father’s recovery after my mother died. I constantly used distractions to help him focus and regain a positive perspective.
Last, caregivers need breaks. I am grateful that other family members come and take the dog on walks. The cat, Clover, went home, and the dog will soon leave as well. However, not everyone has the luxury of ending the caregiving role. Some take care of others on a daily basis. I think of those who care for young children or elderly parents. I wonder: what support systems help them? Who listens to times when they need to vent? Who reminds them of the wonderful and sacrificial act of caregiving?
As I anticipate my next caregiving role, taking care of Julia, I wonder: what new lessons will I learn? It will be a new journey but a great one!
A Journey Worth Remembering 