It isn't the world I imagined but we have tried to build a world that works for us.
The world I imagined when I would finally be able to realise my dream of getting a dog was a world filled with forest, bush and beach adventures, group walks, cafe and pub visits, lots of friends and visitors hanging out at my house.
Pretty much none of that is possible. If an adapted version is possible it needs careful planning and being on high alert.
It has been a slow adjustment. It is a genuine grief for the life you envisaged that you have to work through. And acceptance of where you are. Loving the dog you have, not the one you expected to have.
I got a digital photo frame recently. I thought it might make me a bit sad seeing all the freedom and wonderful travels I experienced pre-George, or because I won't have many photos of George outside of the house.
But it made me realise that we are very lucky, despite George's challenges.
I have so many beautiful photos of him on adventures, even though many are at Sniffspots. I have fantastic photos of him at daycare, on Forest Adventures and at his countryside retreat.
I have photos of George cuddling up to my family and friends.
Admittedly the photos of my travel adventures are from a good few years ago now! But I'm reminded of how many fantastic opportunities I've had. It's OK if that's paused for now.
Through a bit of trial and error and a lot of research, we have a wonderful vet, groomer and daycares.
I was interested to read an AI (Claude) summary recently which stated that my world, by my own admission, has become very small whereas George's world is comparatively rich.
That made me happy. I am doing my best to give George a rich, enjoyable life, whilst respecting his boundaries and need for a sense of safety.
We have our routine. His exercise and mental enrichment needs are met as much as we can.
It is not the world I imagined but it can be an adventurous and fun world nonetheless. And most of all, as safe-feeling as possible with lots of calm and rest.
I've just had to figure out how to do that as best I can. And the photos make me feel that we've done pretty well under the circumstances.