Dudley might not be able to hear much any longer, but thunderstorms still frighten him. He woke me up to let me know that it was thundering and lightning outside and he needed a carrot to calm his nerves. You would be correct to assume Dudley has trained me well; carrots are his treat of choice and he just walks around the bedroom making noise to wake me.

Dudley has always been nervous during thunderstorms, but a year or so ago he started to become terrified during storms. He would pant and pace until the storm passed. He would even get in and out of the bathtub –I guess he paid attention those National Weather Service PSAs. The vet prescribed tranquilizers and while he would sleep for a little bit (quite fitfully) I don’t think they helped him feel less fearful. He was just afraid and stoned.

One blessing that comes from Dudley losing his hearing is that he usually doesn’t hear thunder or fireworks any longer. Last Fourth of July, Dudley could hear the fireworks from the fairgrounds and went into nervous mode, but by the time the State Fair rolled around in October, he did not hear the fireworks they set off at closing time every night. Life goes on.

Dudley is a panter, always has been. He is such a heavy breather I’ve thought about recording him, but I don’t think there is much of a market for pre-recorded obscene phone calls. Dogs pant for a variety of reasons, I think Dudley pants because he’s hot. Since he blew out his knee, pain might be a factor, but since he has always panted heavily, I don’t let it worry me too much. He still has a hearty appetite and shows no signs of lethargy, so while he might be a little less comfortable than before, I don’t think he’s in any severe pain.  Dr. Brian Lapham from Southpoint Animal Hospital, posted this article about why dogs pant. Always discuss excessive panting with your dog’s vet.

Dudley might have stymied his knee recovery this morning. Sir Grace slipped and belly flopped on the hardwood floor this morning before we went for our walk. We still walked, but I could tell he was favoring that right rear leg more so than yesterday. I guess I need to get a couple more throw rugs so that he doesn’t go more than a step or two on the hardwood.

Dogs have given us their absolute all.  We are the center of their universe.  We are the focus of their love and faith and trust.  They serve us in return for scraps.  It is without a doubt the best deal man has ever made.  ~Roger Caras