Terriers help us get through "social distancing"

Two weeks ago, I never heard the phrase “social distancing.” Now, with the coronavirus pandemic, I hear it all the time, and life is changing. This would be scary if we were alone but, fortunately, our cairn terriers and Westies can help us through these scary times. They will keep us sane, even as events are cancelled, schools are closed, and we heed experts’ recommendations to avoid social gatherings.

Foster Roan and her collie brother Nemo make me laugh every day.

Frankly, I could spend hours just watching my pups as they play. Their antics make me laugh, and laughter helps to heal the heart. So maybe I’ll do that for a couple of days -- but, before long, I’ll need to spend my time more constructively.

Shirley McGreal, the founder of the International Primate Protection League, recently posted on Facebook:

“Many of us (seniors or with health problems) are self-quarantined at home due to THE virus.There is nothing interesting on TV here. The quality of programming on PBS has deteriorated. So, what can one do? I'd love to hear suggestions about primate or wildlife books that you think of interest...”

Shirley got hundreds of suggestions!

So let’s try that here. What books about dogs would you recommend? I’ve often blogged about Suzanne Clothier’s wonderful book, Bones Would Rain from the Sky: Deepening Our Relationships with Dogs and, again, I highly recommend it.

Another worthwhile endeavor while you are socially distancing is to take advantage of dog training courses that are being streamed online. Two excellent videos are offered by Your Dog’s Friend:

• TIPS AND TRICKS FOR GOING OUT AND ABOUT AROUND DISTRACTIONS 
• HELPING YOUR FEARFUL DOG NAVIGATE THE WORLD 

We’re in this together, folks, so let’s be there for each other. Add your recommendations for dog books in the comments below, and feel free to share any additional thoughts -- but no political comments, please!

Life is changing but, as always, we are there for our dogs and for the terriers rescued by Col. Potter Cairn Rescue Network.