dealing with the Psychosis since I got sick is a near daily occurrence despite the medication. I've had very good family support and a few understanding friends, both old and new and, of course, I have had my dogs. Until May 1, 2006, there was Autumn, a fawn, female Boxer, Cooper, a brindle, male Boxer and Riis, a male Boykin Spaniel. We had to put Autumn down due to spleen cancer in May, 2006. Since then, the 2 boys have been companions. At 10 and 11, they are old guys, but they still have plenty of personality in them. Cooper spends most of his days holding down the couch, while Riis wanders from one spot to the next looking for the most comfortable place to stretch out. Bring out the food and these boys jump into action. Their favorite junk foods are Cheetos and Marshmallows. For healthier snacks, they like yogurt, bananas and frozen broccoli florets. Cooper stands at attention while he begs; he's a former show dog and still remember how to strike a pose. Riis sidles up as close as possible and will put his nose in our food, if given half a chance. when it is meal time they become very animated. I don't have to look at the clock to know that it is getting close, Cooper will pick up a tennis ball and start prancing around the house to inform me of the approaching meal. Riis attaches himself to my heels and follows my every move.
It's not just food, sometimes it is joy or goofiness or the presence of a dog out front that motivates them. Riis loves to run around with a tennis ball in his mouth, "happy growling" and wagging his butt. Cooper loves to rest his chin on the front windowsill and gaze out at the world or go out on the back patio and Sunbathe until his coat gets hot, then he goes and rolls in the grass and snorts. More on the boys later; they are good for my heart and my mind.
