I spent much of the week making sure the water bowl was full. Our son and his beloved drove down from Michigan for the week. They drove for 11 hours straight through below zero temps, rain, snow, and ice with two fur babies in the back. It was wonderful as we have not seen them in many months!
Turns out 3 dogs is like 300 dogs some days. The first 24 hours were rough as we navigated space around dog beds, treats, cuddles and pets. We had to separate the girls a few times (Roxy and Millie) and make sure Archer didn’t stir the pot too often. Territories were guarded, and we were careful to praise and pet everyone every time so that no one felt left out. We separated them during feedings and treats and always always always made sure there was enough water in the bowl.
Bob noticed that when they were outside – without human intervention – they got along fine. No one got territorial and the space was shared without drama. We decided to become less controlling and more invisible with them to see what would happen. Turns out, after that first LONG day they were able to, without much input from any of us, navigate their spaces and time with each other without too much fuss. They worked it out. We were there to ‘support’ as needed but they worked it out. Their tails were up and wagging!
I think Justice and Equity can be worked out better sometimes without the interference of so many pre-requisites, guidelines, rules, barriers, laws, and controls. If humanity could acknowledge and respect the differences within the community and find common space, perhaps around the water bowl, we might find we actually can get along.
~Lydia Patrick
The power of perception! You are so right. We back away and let those having the conflict manage it. If we could all be displaced, then find ourselves in a new space, an anonymous space, no signs of history, no designated boundary and a major sense of our personal instincts to guide us through. Send this “lesson” to our congressmen. They need all the help they can get !!!