Mood:
amorousTopic: "Run Far, Run Fast"(7)
On Tuesday it will be two weeks since a stage 2 malignant tumor was removed from the hip of Mick, the Wonder Dog. While under anaesthesia at that time, 11 of his teeth were also removed. The veterinarian reported that the tissue samples from the area do not indicate the presence of any more cancer. He felt scientifically safe in his assessment that there is a 95% likelihood that the cancer will not return. His stitches, 15 in all, will be removed on Tuesday.
Mick, the Wonder Dog, turned 14 on Mother's Day. Since his surgery, he has borne a "soft collar" to prevent the canine tendency to lick and scratch at the offending stitches and scarring. He has attempted neither. It is as if, to Frodo, he has an awareness of the seriousness of the situation, and that he senses a personal responsiblity for regaining strength.
When Frodo returns daily from Mount Doom, Mick, the Wonder Dog, has regained enough agility to come down stairs on his own, and to greet Frodo by the gate to the gardens of the Shire. He cries, out of happiness, almost every time. When Frodo sits in front of the computer at night, he comes in and places his nose in Frodo's lap, and he lingers for gentle scratching on his ears and neck, and for the meeting of eyes that speak for both parties.
Tomorrow they travel to Lake Lovey, and it is brutally hot. Mick, the Wonder Dog, would normally be looking for opportunity to swim with Frodo, following in his wake to assure himself that Frodo will land safely ashore. With the stitches still in place, it is critical that the potential for infection receive utmost consideration. This means that there will be no swimming on this trip, and that walks along the shore will be short and closely escorted.
That's okay. It just means that two old dogs will read a couple of books, and play a few "reindeer games." Chances are there will be more than one instance of ear-rubbing between friends. We'll swim next time.
