Ernie Day Three

A Good Sleep

Last night Ernie had the best sleep since he came to live with us. He only woke up once, sleeping peacefully through the rest of the night. He slept until 7 am, I think he may have slept longer, but my husband woke him up. 

Always Walks

After breakfast, Ernie and I headed out the door for our morning walk. An hour and a half later, we are back home. Ernie could have walked further, trying to make up for twelve years of no walking. One day at a time.

Can We Be Friends

When we arrived home, Sally was waiting by the door. Giving Ernie to Gary, Gary tried a meet and greet, but Sally is not ready to be friends yet. We have a muzzle for her, so if she attacks Ernie, we put that on her. Sally needs to learn that attacking others is not the answer. 

In time we hope she gets adjusted to him being here, knowing he isn’t going anywhere, he is here to stay.  She needs to accept him. 

The Veterinary Clinic hasn’t gotten back to us with Ernie’s test results. So we are still in the dark; the pain pill the vet gave us for Ernie doesn’t begin until she gives the ok. Hoping she gets a hold of us today.

Is He Undernourished?

Ernie had a breakfast of hamburger, tiny pieces mixed in with his soft food. He loved it. Today will be a hamburger and rice mix if the vet approves this. Ernie needs to put on a little bit of weight. He is a small dog, but we believe he is undernourished. My husband and I can fix that.

Repetition Helps

Ernie goes outside to the bathroom on a leash. It’s winter, so we do not want to risk him jumping our fence and getting away. The snow is high in places; we are afraid he could jump over. My husband tells me he loves us now and doesn’t want to go elsewhere. He follows me around the house and always sleeps next to us in bed. Maybe sometime next week, outside with no leash; again, I’m thinking this week is too soon. He’s only been here three days. This week is all about Ernie and him getting adjusted to living with us. He does seem to be settling in; repetition daily helps. He knows in the morning; we will head out for a walk. He gets breakfast before we go with his medication. Routine is essential to dogs. We don’t want to upset the apple cart with change. He’s already been through enough. 

Staying Strong

Day 3 is ending; one more day, and he goes to the clinic at 8 am—no more sore mouth or yipping in pain when he opens his mouth. Ernie’s future looks bright. My husband, Sally, and I are with him all the way.

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Stay tuned for updates on Ernie.

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