Me: Oh my darling Nell. You were so brave.
Nell: Yes, I was.
Me: Chloe sent me these photos. She said you were very good but you kept trying to sit down on the treadmill.
Nell: It was full of water and I was going nowhere.
Me: That’s the whole idea. You can have a gentle walk in lovely warm water.
Nell: If I’m going for a walk at least let me enjoy the scenery.
Me: Chloe said you had a lovely lie down for the lasering part.
Nell: Of course I did. Having walked miles in a water filled box anyone would need a rest.
Me: I’m sure it’s going to do you such a lot of good.
Nell: Well, I am a little achy today but as you know I’m not one to complain.
Me: Not about pain, Nell, but you don’t like milky tea, or sandwiches with the crusts on.
Nell: I have standards.
Me: Yes.
Nell: Chloe said Labradors are stoic.
Me: Yes, she did. I can’t bear to think of you in pain.
Nell: That’s why we don’t tell you.
Me: I just remembered when Poppy pulled a muscle and we took her to the vets. He was examining her and he said ‘I know you are hurting, Poppy, but you need to let me know where.’
Nell: And she didn’t?
Me: No. She gritted her teeth and refused to show any sign of weakness.
Nell: It’s a Terrier’s Way. They never give in. We Labradors are more concerned about not worrying anyone, especially those we love.
Me: I wish you’d told me. When you suffer, so do I.
Nell: It looks like I’ll just have to put up with this hydrotherapy nonsense then.
Me: Yes.
Nell: You and Me. Always. Remember?
Me: Yes. Sorry.
