Since Themba's condition has started to worsen, he and Brin have spent more time indoors. A shame in the summer, but we do have to restrict Themba's physical activity to decrease the risk of sudden cardiac death. We have experimented with boredom busters to keep them from destroying the house while I am out for a few hours each day. I have to put things on the beds and sofas to stop them lounging around at their leisure. Themba will also pull books off the shelf and tear up the recycling, if he can get close enough. They each get a used margarine tub, filled with treats and taped up. This takes about 30 minutes to break into and devour. So, what next?
Well, most other dogs will just lay down somewhere and wait, as they don't have any sense of time. The Boxers would prefer to stand at the window and observe the builders next door, delivery men going about their business, neighbours coming and going. But not in a quiet, unobtrusive way. The pair of them have been described as big dog and hench-dog, because although Themba is much weaker now, he has the most fearsome bark. Terrifying, the bark of a much, much bigger dog. I suspect the postman is quite nervous, even though they are on the inside and can't possibly get to him.
I know the dogs have had a quiet, calm time if, when I drive in, they aren't waiting for me at the window. Instead, when I turn the key in the lock, I can hear Ken Bruce on the radio, and softly snoring Boxer dogs on their bed. I know Ken Bruce is the one, after trial and error of Sky News, LBC and BBC Surrey. And when KB was recently away, Claudia Winkelman stood in for him, it was just no good. No offence CW!
If you have time, please pop over to #BlogFlash2012, where you will find the link to many other contributors to a fun creative writing challenge for August.