Molly & Milo
After Molly’s health problems popped up last week, both Brandon and I found ourselves under enormous anxiety and worry.
There are two camps of pet owners: the first sees their dog or cat as an accessory, maybe as another “toy” for their kids, and the second camp sees their pets as an essential part of the family unit: maybe they ARE the kids, for example.
We’re in the second camp.
I didn’t realize, until there was a possibility that Molly could live only another few months, how desperately sad, lonely and heart-broken I would be without these “fur children” of mine. Thinking about it has kept me up most nights, worrying about it during the day, snuggling with her while I’m typing away on my computer—I was truly scared.
And, although her situation has been downgraded somewhat by our amazing, competent and caring vet, the possibilities that remain by what we don’t know is still a scary thought.
These dogs, and Molly in particular, have been with me through everything. I’ve had Molly nearly as long as I’ve known Brandon. She’s been my friend, my car’s co-pilot, the one who spoons with me most nights (all night!), my exercise companion, my couch potato and the one I can cry to. The one I can talk to like a crazy person. The one I torture by putting uncomfortable dog clothing on. The one who tries to jump in the bathtub with me. The one, who when Brandon was leaving my parents house to go back to MD and I was leaving with my family to go on Christmas vacation two years ago, looked out the backseat and watched me with the saddest eyes until they turned the corner. These are not just my accessories. These are not just my pets. They are my family.
In my most cynical moment, waiting in the vet’s office, I thought to myself, “Why would anyone own a pet? Why would they put themselves through this? You have 10-15 years, if you’re lucky, and then they’re gone.”
Why indeed? Because until you know the unconditional, loyal, beautiful love that only an animal can have for you, you cannot fathom how those few years can change you, make you smile, make you happy.
I know, at least, that I have given my pets and will continue to give Molly and Milo the most excellent care I can, all the love I can give, give them a kiss each night on their ears before they fall asleep tucked in with Brandon and I in our—thank god—extra-large king size bed. There are so many pets who cannot enjoy what I hope Molly and Milo enjoy on a daily basis—and that is, the love and affection and kindness that Brandon and I try to provide to them.
If you have a pet, never take your time with him or her for granted. Each year is a gift and slips away faster than the last. Each night is a night for snuggles, each day is a day for playtime. I get asked often when Brandon and I are going to have children, but honestly? Molly and Milo are enough for now.
xo,
Jackie