Growing in Virtue While Caring for a Geriatric Dog

Caring for a family pet that is aging is never easy, especially when it is a beloved pet. It is hard to watch a dog grow old, especially if you have memories when they were young and energetic.

It is especially hard when an old dog constantly tests one’s patience and fortitude. At the same time, however, it provides an opportunity to grow in the Catholic virtues of: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance. The Catechism describes these virtues as essential, for all other virtues branch from these.

First, prudence in this situation will be addressed. My old dog paces endlessly all throughout the night, and constantly sniffs and snorts at doorways and floors; most likely a symptom of dementia or alzheimers. This is annoying, and disrupts sleep. The Catechism defines prudence as right judgment, or, the ability to determine an appropriate course of action. Yelling at the dog might not be prudent as it would only upset the dog and make matters worse, stressing myself out. The most prudent action would be to talk firmly to the dog and perhaps turn on the fan to block out noise.

Secondly, justice applies to caring for an old and senile dog. God entrusts us humans to care for our pets, especially in light of the fact that they provide us with joy, love, and entertainment. They have a right to be treated with dignity and respect. It is a responsibility to care for them.

Thirdly, fortitude is essential for living with a senile dog. It is challenging and draining to consider solutions to problems and clean up messes. A simple prayer to God asking for fortitude makes the journey considerably easier and bearable.

Finally, temperance does apply to caring and living with a senile dog. Temperance is described as restraint, as moderation. It is often challenging to not lose one’s temper with an old dog. It is important to remember that old senile dogs, for most of the time, cannot help their annoying behavior. This requires a tempered, level response on our part.

In conclusion, caring for a geriatric dog is a challenging experience, but at the same time, it is an opportunity with the potential to grow in virtue.