The Makeover

My dog Belay (top photos) turns 11 next week and I worry quite a bit that 2011 might be her last year.  Her dog breed, the Bouvier de Flanders has a life expectancy of 9-12 years.  To her disadvantage, she is large for a typical female Bouvier, weighing in at 100 pounds.  Her arthritis is already limiting her mobility and the simplest task of jumping into the car or walking down stairs is an increasing ordeal.  It's morbid of me to already be thinking of her death, but I'm making a conscientious effort to ensure that whatever remaining time she has with us is filled with lots of love, treats, and adventure.   I specifically got Butters (bottom photos) last year because I heard that getting a puppy may have the potential to stretch an older dog's lifespan.  I fear, however, that Butters' spastic exuberance may be driving Belay bonkers.

Lately I've been photographing Belay as much as possible because I want to make sure I capture her personality, her expressions, her joys, and everything I will miss about her when she's gone.  The most memorable thing about Belay is her nasty beard and hair. The only time you could really cuddle with her is when she's freshly groomed.  The same applies to Butters.  The transformation they undergo after they've been bathed and cut is quite dramatic and I wanted to make sure I documented this aspect of their life.

I took these photos before I took them to the "dog spa" and immediately after.  They don't seem too pleased with their makeover.  I'm sensing a "_uck you, mom" look in their eyes.  So much for unconditional love and adoration!