I can’t decide if comparing my husband/care-receiver to a dog is funny or pathetic.  However, the similarities between pets’ care and behavior and my guy are hard to dismiss.  Here are some:

• He shadows me everywhere, wanting to be by my side.
• He gets anxious when he doesn’t know where I am.
• He loves to go for car rides.
• He sneaks food if I’m not watching.
• He makes messes that I clean up.
• He barks at other dogs (true).
• He’s loving and loyal.
• He’s grateful for my attention.

Many other caregivers, on reading this, will deem me fortunate.  Dementia patients can be cantankerous and ungrateful.  As yet, my dementia dog-man is agreeable and appreciative, which makes the caregiving easier.

When we’re out walking and we see someone with a dog, he says, “I’m glad we don’t have a dog.  They’re so much work.”

I say a silent, “Amen to that!”