Slice #3 The Vet's Parking Lot

 This year, I'm going to spend 31 days writing about places.  In my profession, I talk about place-based writing quite a bit.  I frame it like this when I share:  We believe in the power of including spaces in the process of writing.  Place-based writing is the concept that the place where we write may influence our thinking, impacting the writer’s perspective, engagement, ownership, and/or purpose.  I'm really jazzed up, thinking about where I will spend time as a writer in 31 different spaces this month and how I can use each post to share a little slice of my day. 

Today, the parking lot of the vet's office.

When I picked this theme, I imagined 31 places that brought me joy.  But, that's not how life works.  The little slice of my life that I need to share today is about a place that brings me dread, and anxiety, and (not exaggerating) a little despair.

Before I gush, a small disclaimer.  I have mad respect for vets.  I am grateful for all of the gentle care they have given my animals.  I know that this visit is what is best for my dog, but my heart hurts.

Freya, my 11 year old Jack Russell/Chihuahua mix hasn't been herself lately.  We've been going through various tests over the past few weeks.  Last week ruled out diabetes.  This week, we're trying to diagnose Cushing's disease.  

This entails a full day visit.  This morning, they will inject her with something and then draw blood all day to record the changes.  A quick search will tell you the multiple blood draws are safe.  Logically, I know my dog, even if a bit scared and uncomfortable, is safe.

But visiting this place evokes emotion, not logic.  When I was handed the clipboard to sign before leaving her this morning, it included the disclaimer that is likely given to the 'all day' patients that are there for surgery.  The first line typed out the warning that pets can experience reactions to medication and possible death.  Death was in bold.

It's too much.  

I'm working from home today, and likely won't talk to another human until I pick her up around 5 pm.  I can't stop crying.  Blogger friends, I need a little love today if you could send it out into the universe.

Strange that I'll be counting the minutes until I get to go back to the same place that has colored my day so gloomily.