Following the road trip, we had another week before my parents’ departure.
As soon as we got home, I noticed George’s anxiety levels (and probably mine too!) start to reduce. He rested a lot more.
Given the number of triggers George had faced, our first day back was spent at a familiar local Sniffspot. George had a blast splashing around in the stream.
It was still very hot, so we did early-ish morning walks. My parents explored in the afternoons while George rested and I caught up on life admin.
Of course, we couldn’t go out for a meal, but we made some lovely food at home.
One evening, a friend who George adores came to visit, which was really nice.
We also went for a walk in the forest with another friend and her dog. We avoided all triggers, and George had another great time in the stream. He loves the water.
Things were calming down. Like last time, George’s separation anxiety from my parents disappeared once he was back in a familiar space. Although, he was still incredibly excited to see them when they returned each day, and he did watch the door a little.
George’s vigilance decreased, and he continued to do well with settling calmly at home.
A walk on the local peninsula went okay… we only had one reaction to a dog...although we only saw one.
George returned to his normal daycare schedule, which allowed us to do some “normal people” things on a few days and explore what my beautiful city and surrounds have to offer.
I must admit, it was a nice break. I don’t get to do normal people things very often 😆
I think George was pleased to be back in a familiar routine too. He was very excited to see his friends at daycare and didn’t look back once at drop-off.
Sadly, all too soon, the day of my parents’ departure arrived. Being the sole carer of an anxious dog isn’t easy, and I’d loved having the family support. While they always support me from afar, having them here was amazing. It was extra special having them here over Christmas.
George knew something was afoot that day. I’d been a little worried he would endlessly watch the door after they left, but he seemed to understand that they weren’t coming back soon this time. I think he was a little sad too. Our house feels quite empty now.
I am so grateful that they travel all this way to visit, knowing it won’t be a “normal” trip and that we’re restricted in what we can do.
Despite the challenges, George and I had a lovely time — and I sincerely hope they did too.
It was lovely to see how much George adores them. He would bound up the stairs to see them in the mornings, and he squealed with joy when they returned home after even a brief trip out.
So it’s back to George and me. We will manage, as we always do, even if we’re a little sad for a while. But although George is great company, he's pretty rubbish at making me a cup of tea in the mornings 😆
Until next time, to my wonderful parents, thank you 💜