Dog
(Sorry for not having many updates - I’ll work on it.)
A couple of weeks ago during Coral’s bedtime routine, a bit out of the blue, she asked to have Scout sleep in her room. This came as a bit of a surprise to me because although Coral has always loved Scout she generally didn’t want him in her room - and she never wanted him on her bed. But that night she wanted Scout in her room.
We called Scout into the room and he complied (although with some hesitation). Much to my surprise, he ended up spending the whole night in there with her. The next morning I asked her where Scout slept and she said, “on my bed.” Strange.
Since then, Scout has slept in Coral’s room most nights and most naps too. He has a bed in there now so I’m not sure how often he sleeps on her bed or his bed. Most nights I sneak him out after she goes to sleep so he can eat and go outside but usually if I don’t put him back she’ll eventually wake up and ask where he is.
Coral generally doesn’t complain about being scared when she has to go to bed but she’s said some things that make me think Scout is in there for her protection. When we were visiting Meme (one of Coral’s grandmothers) after Christmas I told her that Scout has been sleeping in Coral’s room. Meme asked Coral if she was taking care of Scout. Coral’s response was, “no, he’s taking care of me.”
I’m happy to see this new bond forming. Scout’s a great dog but has always been a bit weary of Coral (probably wise) but as she shows more affection toward him he seems to be enjoying it. I’m not sure if his presence will always be required in her room when she’s sleeping but for now that’s how things are working out.
Mimi said,
January 3, 2008 @ 11:44 pm
I think it’s interesting that now that she is old enough to deal with Scout responsibly, they are both enjoying their relationship. Scout is such a neat dog and I think Coral will really benefit from having him around. And I think it’s wonderful that she feel protected by him.