Bad week for a Good Boy.

My friend has had a bad week.  The stiffness and discomfort in his hips and front right leg have made any movement difficult.  The Novox seemed to help at first, but now it's giving him little relief.  I got another prescription yesterday which helps to inhibit his pain.  It makes him sleepy, but under the circumstances, this is a blessing. 

Luke's favorite activity was to catch and retrieve a tossed tennis ball, and he could do it for hours.  Seeing him barely able to stand now is heartbreaking.

It's a helpless feeling to realize you'll soon be faced with a very difficult decision.  You can tell yourself that not allowing your animal to suffer is the greatest act of compassion, but it sure doesn't feel that way. 

As long as his tail keeps wagging, I'll keep doing all I can to make him comfortable.   I love this dog. 

 

Happy Birthday Champ!

Tomorrow is Luke's 13th birthday.   He's laying here beside me napping soundly (I can tell from the snoring).  We're having a quiet Sunday morning.   I've already given him some of his birthday present (his favorite chicken treats).

Luke's arthiritis had worsened over the last year.  He's now on daily medication to ease the pain, and to make him more comfortable.  He has trouble getting up, and has to be carried upstairs each night.  It don't think it will be much longer before he needs help going downstairs also. 

He's also gotten almost completely deaf.  I'm careful not to startle him when I approach him from behind.  Since it's hard for him to get up, sometimes he makes a short bark when he's wakes up alone as if to ask "is anyone here"?

Doesn't bother me.  I'll come whenever he needs me, and I will gladly carry him anywhere. 

Happy Birthday old boy!