It Stings!

My dog Poppy got stung by a bee on her walk this morning. I felt a mix of panic and helplessness because she immediately tried to remove whatever she may have stepped on (or so I thought that’s what it was). I was unsure of how to ease her discomfort (she wouldn’t let me look at it) quickly and all she wanted to do was go home, but she wouldn’t allow me to carry her (she’s little). I let her lead me because the thought of her suffering, even for a moment, was unbearable, and all she wanted was to get home right away.

She finally let me look at her foot and I found a tiny stinger she’d worked out. I was reminded of just how vulnerable our pets are. They trust us implicitly to protect them, yet there are moments when things are beyond our control. It made me more aware of the preciousness of her well-being and the deep bond we share. Thankfully, she recovered quickly. I am always vigilant and attentive as possible with her anyway, and whenever she gets hurt, I stay hyper-vigilant until I know she’s back to her normal sweet self.

This experience reminds me of the importance of caring for ourselves and those we love with the same urgency and compassion. Life is full of unexpected stings—whether they come in the form of physical ailments, emotional challenges, or the stresses of daily life. It’s essential to be mindful of our own needs, ensuring we’re not neglecting our well-being as we care for others. By taking the time to nurture ourselves, we build the resilience and strength needed to support our loved ones effectively. Just like tending to a bee sting, small acts of self-care can make a big difference, allowing us to face life’s challenges with grace and empathy.