Coming to Terms with Aging
Dear Frankie,
I am a ten-year-old black lab. The other day, my mom and I looked at pictures of me from when I was a puppy until now. It never occurred to me how much I had changed. It seemed as we turned a page, my face and paws got grayer and grayer. I exaggerate saying every page, but that’s what it felt like to me. There was no denying that I was no longer that black and shiny-haired lab that I once was, back in the day.
I wondered if you thought it was a good idea for me to start using that stuff my mom puts on her hair to make it dark and shiny?
Worried, Finn
Dear Finn,
Dogs, like people, deal with aging in different ways. I’m assuming you understand that you don’t have a hair problem and that gray hair is the result of you getting on in years. If having a black muzzle and paws would make you feel better about yourself, then do it.
You might check with your vet to see if there is a hair dye specifically made for dogs. And, of course, you will need to get your mom’s permission. If she agrees, you might think of dyeing your hair together on the same night. It could be one of your special times together.
Before you forge ahead, though, I suggest you take some time to live with the new you — an older distinguished lab. I gather from your letter, the realization that your hair had turned gray came as a bit of a shock. If that’s the case, it’s best to hold off on making a hasty decision. It’s never wise to act when agitated or in doubt. I feel after careful consideration, whatever decision you make, it will be the right one.
Best, Frankie
© 2021, Geneva Woodruff
Frankie is an eight-year-old schnauzer poodle and a rescue. She is a certified emotional support animal for a single retired educator.
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