A gray tabby named Raphael lived in a house during the winter polar vortex. He was a creature of habit, and his most pressing winter habit was finding the precise location of warmth.
One particularly frigid afternoon, Raph discovered a new kitty perch: the top of the heat unit. It wasn’t just warm; it was the warmest spot. As he curled up, a moment occurred: a face-warming trend. To any observer, his face glowed with blissful heat. The external heat source created feline contentment.
His human, James, noticed the trend. He knew this warmth was normal, a sign of comfort and security. But being a diligent cat owner, he also kept a watchful eye.
One evening, James observed a subtle shift. The warmth was present, yet quiet stillness, uncharacteristic of Raph, also existed. He declined his favorite salmon snack and moved with a lethargy that sent a small chill down James’s spine, colder than the winter air outside.
A quick trip to the vet confirmed his suspicions. The face-warming trend, when coupled with a loss of appetite and unusual listlessness, was not just about seeking comfort; it was a fever.
Raph, via medicine plus rest, recovered again, mastering thermal comfort. The face-warming trend returned, but this time, it was a healthy glow of a happy, warm, and well-monitored cat, who knew the difference between a cozy sunbeam and a call for his human’s gentle attention.
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Category: Paws to That!
Bea
A Senior Dog’s Transformation
Arthur, an older dog with a mysterious history from downstate Illinois, was once a bundle of nerves in the bustling city. The urban landscape overwhelmed him, making him scared and reactive to every noise and sudden movement. His owner, seeking a change for her beloved companion, found a lifeline in Dog Training Now (DTN). She would later recall that location with intense gratitude; Arthur discovered existence need not induce fear there.
The 12-day board-and-train program was transformative. DTN wasn’t just a business; it was a community of people who genuinely cared about the dogs’ success. They welcomed Arthur with open arms, understanding his anxieties and working patiently to build his confidence. Under the dedicated guidance of the trainers, especially one named JJ, Arthur unfurled.
Each day brought new lessons. He gained trust, followed instructions, and, above all, the realization that the surrounding wasn’t hostile. JJ fostered a special bond with Arthur, treating him with a love that mirrored his owner’s own affection. Even after returning home, the lessons stuck. Arthur continued to practice his new skills, his progress a testament to the comprehensive and caring approach of the DTN team.
His owner watched proudly as the once-timid, reactive dog blossomed into a confident, happier companion. The transformation was remarkable. “I highly recommend DTN,” she often enthused, “no matter what their age, they can help your pup be a better dog!” Arthur’s story shows that, with support and affection, dogs of any age or background can find happiness and confidently embrace life.
A Beautiful Walk
The scent of fishing bait and the cool fall air are the first things that greet me as I get to the reservoir across the street from my home. I quickly direct my human to the walking path along the lake. My ears flap as I trot, the gentle breeze and smells moving me along to the wildflowers growing amongst the tall grass. Ohhhh, the human holding my leash is moving at a good pace, but my nose wants to linger, to follow the grassy mud trails left by the folks fishing, sailing, and rowing.
Wildflowers win! I see the first burst of color. Dotted across the green bank, a field of wildflowers sways in the breeze. There are fresh smells, the scent of mildew, the muddy roots, and a flirty butterfly I chase. I pull on my leash, my tail thumping with excitement, and my human lets us wander farther down the path.
I bury my nose in a clump of yellow petals, barking for fun and smelling it all. The scent tells an entire story: of the sun, the soil, and the other creatures that have passed by. Beyond the flowers, the reservoir shimmers, its surface a vast reflecting mirror. The scent of fish and cool water mixes with the wildflowers, creating a perfect scent just for me. I pause, looking up at the wide sky, and then let my beagle nose lead the way once more. There are so many stories to sniff out, and I have all the time in the world to read them to you again soon.
The Anipal Times 