I think the diggles is depressed. She's recently taken to sitting by herself in the evenings instead of on Kris' lap and sleeping anywhere but her little bed beside me (mostly on the spare bed but sometimes downstairs). This is a dog that has not left my or Kris' side for her entire three and half years on this earth. Granted, this is also a dog that is famous for her martyrdom techniques. I have a distinct memory of her as a puppy retiring to her kennel with no blanket - staring at us after we cut her playtime short, by her standards. She's also been known to halt all interaction with my dad (whom she adores, as per previous post) and wait by the door to be taken home when he gets a bit "crisp" with her. She also gives great "f*** you" eye if you don't share whatever piece of food you're eating. But she's always come around and for the most part hangs out in whatever room we're in. For the last few weeks though, Kris and I have noticed a marked change in her habits and her mood. I think she's sad that I don't play with her dragon like I used to and that she's not allowed to jump all over me whenever she pleases. She knows something has changed. I wish I could make her understand that I would LOVE to get on my hands and knees and play "which way will I throw this pig" then chase her around the house like I normally do after work, but that I'm currently experiencing a barrier to this type of activity. I feel bad. I play with her as much as I can, but some days it's just not in the cards. I'm trying to be very conscious of her needs and want desperately to keep her happy when the kid comes. I don't ever want to be one of those couples that gets rid of their family pet when the baby shows up. Mainly because I love her so much but also because I'm serious when it comes to my commitments and responsibilities and I think it would be just awful to give her away. I should say that Kris still plays with her - she's not starving for attention and she gets walks everyday where she gets to eat all kind of sidewalk treats. I just think she's not adjusting to the changes in her life all that well. So any dog (or cat) owners who have some advice on keeping your pet's spirits up during pregnant/baby times, I'd welcome the help. I mean look at that face. She's brilliant!
