This right here. The first time I said something about our oldest maybe dealing with it, my family looked at me like I was crazy. She turned 15 today, she still eats and drinks, somewhat active. We know she’s not the same mentally, but physically she’s ok for being 15. I know what’s coming, we’re just not ready for it, especially when she seems ok physically.

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Posted by Mr Breeze

The Lunatic Fringe

Member since Dec 2010

5993 posts

Posted on 5/19/23 at 1:48 am to gizmothepug

Three months ago, my little buddy became restless with a ravenous appetite and insatiable thirst, demanding and impatient going in and out all hours of the day and night. Not like him at all.

After many tests, the diagnosis was Cushing's disease, under control with Vetoryl, along with high BP meds and vitamins. Then he began acting strange, staring inches away from walls and not coming when called. I suspected canine dementia.

Turns out he's blind due to detached retinas, apparently common with small breeds, developed slowly over time. We just didn't noice as he adapted until he no longer could. His hearing is also suddenly poor, along with heart and kidney issues.

Unusual for most small breeds, he loves little kids and will sit at the driveway gate for hours waiting for some to walk by with their parents so he can bark excitedly, hoping they will come play. Our neighborhood kids love him as well as his best friends, our grandchildren.

I know what's coming and am heartbroken.

Nonetheless, I will do all medically responsible keeping him as comfortable as possible until his time comes. For now, he's doing the happy roll in the grass after morning and evening meals and getting by just fine. His sense of smell is excellent; outside he follows his own and our other dogs scent trails.

He does occasionally get confused and frightened, a quick gentle pat on the head tells him we're nearby and calms him. I will be with him at the end.

His name is Oscar, he's 13 years old.