"Your dog's injury is healing well; the stitches are well done. A good rest and proper care will do the rest. Just make sure he doesn't move too much," Dr. Paige said, his tone professional yet warm.
Ethan listened attentively to the Doctor's instructions. Knowing it was almost dinner time, he considered inviting him to thank him and build a rapport. His wife needed a veterinarian, and Dr. Paige had a good reputation, but he still wanted to gauge his true nature.
"No thanks, I have a prior meeting this evening," Dr. Paige replied, politely declining the invitation.
Ethan didn't insist. "Okay. Take care, Doctor."
Elena was busy checking on Poochi while gently washing his fur. Once she saw that the Doctor had left, she carefully transferred Poochi back to her space, and Ethan followed closely in his wheelchair.
Inside her space, Elena placed Poochi on a soft bed in a tent and watched him sleep peacefully. She decided not to wake him for dinner.