BEATING THE HEAT
The bonds we develop with our pets are unlike any other we experience. They depend on us for their every want and need, and we often give them whatever they ask for! We know they would do the same for us if the roles were reversed. As the years pass, that bond deepens, making us inseparable from our furry friends. Many of us have felt despair when we imagine life without our trusty dog, cat, or other pet. It turns out that some animals feel the same and will do everything in their power to protect their owner if tragedy occurs. An 84-year-old man in Washington state woke up one morning to the sound of his glucose machine telling him his blood sugar was too low. As he headed toward the fridge, he noticed his 13-year-old dog, Gita, wanted to go outside. Shortly after being let out, Gita took off toward the woods, and her owner followed in pursuit. After traveling 20–30 feet, the man turned around to head back home when dizziness overcame him. He fell to the ground, broke his hip, and immediately started shouting for help. Gita remained by her owner’s side for some time before realizing nobody would hear him in the secluded woods. She jumped into action, heading toward a well-traveled street, where she encountered a sheriff’s deputy. The deputy tried to get the dog in his vehicle to no avail, so he surveyed the surrounding area to find Gita’s owner. The deputy could not locate the owner but still felt something was wrong, so he turned his attention back to Gita. The two locked eyes before Gita stood up and ran toward an unmarked side street. Gita led the deputy directly to her owner before any more harm could come to him. After the event, the Stevens County Sheriff’s Office posted “Hero Dog Saves Owner” and their account of the story on Facebook. Gita certainly proved her loyalty and bravery that day! Gita’s Heroic Dash to Save Her Owner Loyalty Runs Deep
ALZHEIMER’S WANDER
Wandering is one of the more common and concerning behaviors in individuals living with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia. It can happen for a variety of reasons: confusion, anxiety, searching for something familiar, or being unable to recognize surroundings. While it’s something to keep an eye on year-round, it’s especially important to be extra cautious during summer. Warmer weather means more people spend time outdoors, kids are out of school, pools are open, and there’s more activity in neighborhoods. It’s easier for someone to slip away unnoticed or head outside without realizing they’re not where they’re supposed to be. For families and caregivers, being proactive is key to keeping loved ones safe. Establish a Routine
A predictable schedule can reduce restlessness and anxiety, which are common triggers for wandering. Meals, walks, and activities at consistent times can help your loved one feel more secure. Secure Entrances and Exits Install childproof locks or alarms on doors and windows. Consider motion sensors or door chimes that alert you
Puzzle Time!
2 www.TrinityElderLaw.com
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