Life is full of Adjustments – Benji Two Years Later

“Benji, did I ever tell you that you’re an inspiration to me.”

“Why’s that, Sue?”

“You’re so cheerful! Despite your handicap, you still love life! I’m not so sure I would do as well.”

It’s been 2 years since Benji’s accident – Time to Tell You About Benji.

We chose life for him then, even with three legs, and never looked back. But we did have to make adjustments to ensure the safety of our little boy.

The first thing we got were steps to his perch, which he used immediately.

We recently added a self-grooming brush to the steps, to help him relieve the itches his phantom leg can’t reach.

From the perch he can access his window seat, where he enjoys the fresh air and watches the birds.

He used to loved high places and found them everywhere, inside and out. But without that missing leg, he no longer has the same spring in his step.

We blocked access to the 3rd floor landing, where he used to sit and sing. It was an easy jump for a nimble cat, but a long drop to the stairs below for one who might miss.

He loved sitting on the top shelf in the bathroom,

but seems just as happy few stories down.

“Honestly Benji, I don’t miss seeing you on top of the fridge.”

“I only did it once, Sue. Not much to do up there.”

“Once was enough. I didn’t like seeing you on the roof of the house, either. I’m glad that’s a thing of the past.”

“It was a shortcut, Sue.”

In fact, we wondered whether to let Benji outside ever again. The first few months, there were supervised visits only.

But eventually we realized he’d never be happy cooped up inside; he needed the outdoors to thrive.

Fortunately, as he has gotten older – now a middle aged 10-year-old – he wants outside less often, for shorter periods of time and stays closer to the house.

“Right, Benji?”

Life is full of adjustments.

~ Susanne