Holly is afraid of my walker...

[Richard Crowe]

I just returned from a trip to the hospital where I had a total right knee replacement. I am doing just great, far better than I could have hoped for. However, there is one thing about which I was apprehensive. Holly is a big strong dog and enjoys getting up on the couch and sitting on our laps. She is well trained enough that if I saw her coming, just saying "no" or "off" would prevent this. She is also easily enough trained that I could keep her permanently off the couch. I do not want to prevent it totally because I enjoy her being physically close. Most of the time, she doesn't actually SIT on my lab, but on the couch with part of her upper body across my lap.

The walker solved my problems. It scares the dickens our of her. I have the walker next to my new knee and Holly will not go near the leg. Normally, we would gradually introduce her to a new experience so that her fears would subside. However, in this case, I am letting Holly continue to be afraid of the walker. In two or three weeks, or so, when the walker magically turns into a cane, it will be time to have my big girl laying with her head on my lap again.

[Richard Crowe]

Actually, it is a positive thing that Holly is reluctant to come near the walker. It protects my leg when I an not paying specific attention to Holly and I never get blindsided by an excited Doodle. When I am playing with Holly, I just push the walker aside.

[Jersey, Jasmine, Jypsy and Diane]

Good luck with your new knee. I had both knees replaced three months ago. I have two dogs and used my walker to safe guard my knees too. My kids brought their dogs over to visit, all BIG dogs. None were afraid of the walker. I still have to be careful I don't get in the middle of their "play sessions". Keep up the good progress. Diane and Jersey

[Michele, Biscuit & Mo]

I can tell that Holly loves you so much, it won't be long before she realizes the "monster" is simply an obstacle to get around! LOL! Take it easy and feel better soon... having your Holly rest her head on your leg (no more than that!) will be just the TLC you need.

[Adrianne Matzkin]

glad you are home and with Holly. I know it will make your recovery even swifter - the love of our Doodle!

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

What a great idea, Richard.

[Janie]

I hope you have a quick recovery!

[Sue, Murphy and Bella ()*o*()]

Being a nurse, I can tell you she will get over her fears a lot sooner than you will get over having her weight on your knee for right now. I'm sure she is getting lots of lovin' and attention otherwise, as you're probably not going anywhere too fast for awhile. Keep up the good recovery.

[Cam & Oski]

What about tying a treat or a toy on the side of the walker? Or would that invite romping chaos? :)

[Adina P]

Poor Holly--hopefully she realizes soon that it is totally a benign object :-)
Best wishes for healing!