Tuesday, March 02, 2010


TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING

Flicka Link, Flicka Link, Flicka Link. Saying it three times never fails to make me smile, if not giggle out loud. She's a delight. She's well-behaved. She has no communication disorders whatsoever. When I ask her to do something, she never has a better idea., she simply does it. The closest thing she has to a need that is special is her diet, one for "sensitive stomachs." She is in all ways, a wonderful presence in our home.

We really talked to the person at Guide Dogs a lot before getting her, about how to make sure she knew she was not the family pet, but Rojo's companion, Rojo's buddy, Rojo's responsibility. We did little things like have him meet her first, while we three stayed back. He took the leash, he learned the commands, he fed her first (and remains the feeder), he, he, he, he, he.

And it has worked.

That dog knows to whom she belongs.

Never did we consider that Rojo spent 13 1/2 years dog-less, and then the next day had a 24/7 companion, and that might overwhelm his circuits. He loves her, don't get me wrong, he grins from ear-to-ear constantly, and he doesn't even have to say "Flicka Link" three times to get that effect. But he's taken his responsibilities very seriously, and keeps internal track of when she last peed, ate, pooped, got brushed, etc., etc., etc., and well, I don't have to tell you, that's a lot for anyone!

What has evolved is his occasional arrangement of care for Flicka, so he can arrange some personal time for himself. It's a good arrangement. Turns out the boy that never wanted to be alone and sought constant companionship from us, has a greater need for solitude than anyone would have guessed.

Flicka Link, Flicka Link, Flicka Link was worth getting just for that.

14 comments:

Me said...

She changed a lot of lives - hers, yours, and obviously most importantly Rojo. Amazing isn't it? What an animal can do without even knowing it?

Deb Shucka said...

Flicka Link, Flicka Link, Flicka Link is just at the beginning of her gifting to your family. Even though she's there for Rojo, the bigger miracle to me is the peace she brings to you.

fullsoulahead.com said...

Love it!

Wanda said...

Amazing. I love hearing the ongoing progress...for everyone.

Amber said...

Do you think in time he will be able to relax a little? He sounde like me when I had babies. lol!

I am happy he is good for him.

:) ox

Anonymous said...

I tried it, and it did make me smile!

Love this post. Love that she is working out so well! (and totally wishing I could skip the puppy stage and get to the part this dog would do what I said and not have any other ideas!!)

Suzy said...

I'm with Deb. A gift to Rojo, but a miracle to you.

Love you

Suzy

Cinda said...

Just caught up on your blog and loving every minute of my reading! I am excited to read about dog and boy and that it is not only working well but adding so many "life lessons" and learnings to your lives. I also was very interested in the posting on the re-eval and the whole IEP process (since I teach that stuff). Does your state start transition services at 14 or 16? Thank you and take care of YOU! Cinda

Anonymous said...

How cool. Really.



Flicka Link, Flicka Link, Licka Flink

Now try Toy Boat...

kario said...

Yeehaw! I love that there are ways in which this lovely creature will help Rojo that nobody could have anticipated! And you are the perfect mom because you will remain open to recognizing all of her gifts.

(BTW, my kids are convinced that saying "Walla Walla Washington" even once prompts a huge smile from anyone. Try it!)

Ask Me Anything said...

I love when I get to hear you tell a story, and then I get to read it, too! It's always even better the second time!

Alicia D said...

So cool!! We've been thinking about getting a companion dog for our daughter through canine companions... mb in the future. its good to hear this story :)

Tanya @ TeenAutism said...

She is wonderful in so many ways. Love.

Ms. TK said...

So inspiring. A miracle.