Top Dog

People often inspire us. I think animals can do the same.

My husband John and I recently agreed to take care of my great-nephew’s pet, Mater, an adorable French bulldog. Family and friends know John and I do this all the time – we love animals, and our dogs are comfortable with other cats and dogs.

However, this was the first time we took care of a special-needs dog. Due to an accident last fall, Mater is paralyzed from the waist down. He rarely uses his two-wheeled cart and drags his back legs behind him. Mater must also wear a belly band (diaper for male dogs) 24/7, unless he’s outside in the grass.

When my great-nephew, Trevor, reached out to us weeks ago to ask if we’d watch Mater, I told him I’d need to discuss it with John. I knew with John being retired, he’d be the primary caregiver for the little guy. My husband eagerly agreed.

Trevor and his fiancée, Mikayla, arrived at our house on a Thursday morning with a page full of instructions. He demonstrated how to squeeze Mater in just the right way so he could empty his bladder in our backyard every few hours. John and I also watched some YouTube videos for further education.

We were shocked to see how quickly Mater moved throughout our yard and house. He’s adapted to his situation well and gets around like any other dog. It just looks a bit different. His front legs are mighty!

Our columnist considers Mater to be an incredible top dog. (Photo provided by Amy Shankland)

Mater is full of life and love. I lost a bit of sleep Thursday night wondering if he’d be eager and anxious in his crate when I would come downstairs the next day. I laughed when I tiptoed into the room to see him snoring away at 7 a.m. Mater’s not one to wake up early.

He’s also rather vocal, with a full range of expressions. While we were cautioned to not have Mater up on our furniture, John couldn’t resist cuddling with him on the couch. One afternoon, John decided to nap without the little guy. That was a mistake.

As I worked at my desk, I saw Mater sitting at John’s feet looking up. I heard a combination of a growl/bark/command and chuckled when John startled awake. Mater was soon back in his proper place – John’s lap.

Before Trevor and Mikayla picked Mater up the following Saturday afternoon, I realized they were also an inspiration. They’re in their early 20s and starting out in life. They could have given up on Mater and had him put to sleep last fall, and many of us would have understood. Instead, they knew how much they loved him, and were determined to make their situation work.

I want to thank Trevor, Mikayla, and Mater for a powerful reminder – it’s important to not give up on so many of life’s situations. The work and experience make us stronger and wiser. It yields so much joy and happiness.

We fell in love with this little dog. Mater, we hope you come and see us again soon.

Amy Shankland is an empty-nester, writer, and fundraising professional living in Noblesville with her husband John and two dogs. You can reach her via email at amys@greenavenue.info.