Gimpy Girl
I hurt so much...but I love my bandage
My writing buddy, the one who lies by my feet while I work in my office, hurt herself this week.
I don’t know how, but a hunk of the soft black pad on the underside of her right front paw was gouged out along with a portion of the toe nail on the outer edge.
This happened in less than 90 seconds during a quick, late night potty break last Wednesday. She bled all night long though I iced it and wrapped it in a towel. Nothing bit her as I was outside with her and literally carried her to her favorite patch of grass, now dry and brittle from the lack of rain and searing heat of the past two weeks.
So a trip to the vet early Thursday morning. Another on Saturday morning and yet another one tomorrow morning. Oreo’s no longer scurrying around the house nor doing her acrobatic jumps.
She hobbles. Whines. Limps like she’s in great pain despite the pain meds the vet gave me.
I wish I could do more for her. I hurt with her when I see her huge brown sugar eyes begging me to make her feel better. But other than petting her and offering soothing, nonsensical words, I can offer no more. These past few days have reminded me of the times I was a mother of young sons. When they got sick, they didn’t understand why I couldn’t make them all better—now.
It’s frustrating. Sad. Tiring.
But she will get better, just as my young sons did, and will once again be the energetic, cute, loveable companion we call Oreo. From her photo you can see why.
This week has been a very difficult week on many different levels. Oreo’s injury was just one of the major difficulties we faced. I’m very glad to see a new week begin today. But I leave you with one bright spot.
Next book's cover art
You know I received a contract for a second book several months ago. While I don’t have the release date, on Friday I did get the cover art for my book. What do you think?
Explore posts in the same categories: Pets, WritingTags: pet injuries, pets, postaweek2011
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Casey Comments 
July 24, 2011 at 1:41 pm
Mary Jo, so sorry about your dog. We have an 18-year-old beagle who limps because of arthritis. On our way back from our walk today, I carried her part of the way. The mind is willing, but not the body.
I hate to admit it, but I know just how she feels.
July 24, 2011 at 2:02 pm
So sorry for Oreo and you feeling bad about not being able to fix it. I hope your week gets better.
As for your other question… LOVE IT!!! Such a beautiful cover!
July 24, 2011 at 2:02 pm
Of all things, Mary Jo, to have this happen to Oreo now. You are dealing with so much, you don’t need to be up at night with an injured dog. I know how much you love her.
Wow, what a cover. Fantastic. Love that sky!
July 24, 2011 at 4:09 pm
Poor Oreo! I sure hope she’s recovers as quickly as possible. And I’m sending hugs & kisses to help with everything else that’s going on.
LOVE the cover, it’s gorgeous, absolutely gorgeous!
July 24, 2011 at 4:28 pm
Edie,
While Oreo’s in her prime, I’ve been carrying her a lot this week, but she’s not heavy and she’s my puppy always. 🙂 When I had her at the vet on Saturday, she was becoming quite interested in a beagle. You’re very lucky to have your dog reach age 18! The oldest dog we’ve ever had got to 17 1/2 years old.
July 24, 2011 at 4:31 pm
Stacey,
Don’t know about the week getting any better, it didn’t. But today starts a new week–all fresh and promising.
As for the cover? TWRP has the most amazing art department. The one glorious beacon in the week. 🙂
July 24, 2011 at 4:32 pm
Virginia,
I love my new cover also. I’ve been very fortunate with covers.
Thanks for your ever abiding support. 🙂
July 24, 2011 at 4:35 pm
Donna,
I’m so glad you like the cover. It really fits the book. I always appreciate your hugs, too. Sending some north to you.
July 24, 2011 at 5:58 pm
Feel better, Oreo! Being injured stinks. Especially in the summertime!
Awesome cover!! You must be ecstatic!
July 24, 2011 at 8:18 pm
Gracie loves the picture of Oreo. I hope Oreo feels better soon. I know how hard it is to watch out little four-legged babies and not be able to help them.
The cover art is awesome! I can’t wait to read it!
July 25, 2011 at 6:56 am
stunning cover! carol gianforte
July 25, 2011 at 8:51 am
Elle,
This morning Oreo is walking with less limp and hobble. 🙂 She considers herself my inspiration for all my writing so both of us thank you for loving “our” cover.
July 25, 2011 at 8:53 am
Anne,
So glad little Gracie loves Oreo’s photo. Her nature and petite stature (10 pounds) attract little ones. Oreo agrees with you about the cover. 🙂
July 25, 2011 at 8:54 am
Carol,
Thanks for the cover comment and stopping by.
July 26, 2011 at 11:37 am
I Like the cover. It’s mysterious looking. Cute picture of Oreo!
July 27, 2011 at 3:19 pm
Oh…poor Oreo. Something quite sharp had to have been out in the yard. Poor little thing. She sure is a cutie! And, I love you bandage, too:)
The book cover is very enticing. I can’t wait.
You take care and I will be calling you!
July 27, 2011 at 6:39 pm
Brenda,
Right now I’m editing galleys which is very time-consuming. Good to hear from you. Thanks for stopping by. 🙂
July 31, 2011 at 4:31 pm
Just realized I didn’t leave a response here and I wanted to. FIRST, I so hope Oreo is improving. You’re right about the comparisons to our sons when they were babes…when they hurt and you can’t do much your heart aches. Feel better Oreo…heal quickly!
SECOND, I Love your cover. Beautiful. So “you”!