Caring for Lady

I had planned to do other things this weekend, but spent almost the entire week going to Lady’s personal vet and, then, the VRCC.

For some time, now, Lady has not been feeling the best.  Before covid (September) or after covid (early October).  At least that is what I’ve thought.  Lethargic.  Not doing those things that she usually does – like tearing down the hall when the doorbell rings.  I call her my four-legged door bell

Last week, Wednesday, I took her to Dr. Monica, a veterinarian at the clinic where we go.  Nothing outward seemed to be a problem.  Blood work did not show any problem.  And, her condition continued to deteriorate so that on Sunday, we went to the VRCC, a 24/7 emergency care facility.  The veterinarians there indicated that, again, nothing on the outside seemed wrong.  They confirmed Dr. Monica’s blood work analysis.  The only real way to get more definition to the problem was for me to bring her in Monday for an ultrasound.  They could have taken X-rays on Sunday, but they are not as conclusive as an ultrasound.

She made it through the night on Sunday.  In all honesty, sometimes, when I looked at her on the bed, she appeared to not be alive.  But, each time that her name was spoken, something would move.  Eyes would open.  Ears would twitch.

She was not eating or drinking water.  This is a dog who, at 6 pm every night, would remind me that it is treat time.  She jumps on my leg while I’m sitting my desk.  (They can tell time, you know.)  I would get her three treats and give them toher.  She is very excited at this time.  Then, because she can  also count (to three, at least) would settle back in her safe place bed.

None of this has been going on these past days.  No eating.  No drinking.  No asking for treats.  She is refusing every opportunity to eat food or treats or drink water.

The ultrasound shows that she has pancreatitis; according to the VRCC veterinarian, very mild.  With what this dog is going through, I would definitely not want to see anything major.  However, I was assured that with treatment she will recover.  Their recommendation was to leave her in the hospital for X-number of days so they could aggressively treat the condition.  I live on a small and fixed income.  I really cannot afford the cost of several days in the animal hospital.  In addition, I think she would be more comfortable at home.

I know how to give dogs medications – That’s the easy part.  Figuring out how to get her to eat when she is refusing everything offered, is another problem.  A really BIG problem.

Sister Clara and I were brainstorming.  First, we came up with using an eye dropper filled with water to get her to drink.  Then, we thought that that would be too small.  So, what about using the turkey baster, being sure to avoid making her “drink from a fire hose.”  Little bits at a time.  I tried that, and it works.  It’s pretty messy, as I hold her on my lap to accomplish this watery procedure.  I do put a “pee pad” around her neck to keep both of us dry.

Food is the next BIG problem.  I thought about giving her some vanilla protein drink.  I discussed that with Dr. Monica when she called.  She said she didn’t want her drinking the protein drink because she doesn’t know what is in it.  Baby food would be better.  Chicken.  Turkey.  Carrots.  Rice.  To feed her, I take the food in my fingers and put it into her mouth, and keep her mouth closed so she has to swallow it.  Not wonderful, but it seems to work.  She is definitely not happy about either of these procedures!

I went to the grocers to get the items I don’t have.  I can’t remember the last time I shopped for baby food.  Anyway, as I was looking at the baby food jars, trying to read them, and not being able to do that, a young man in hoodie walked past.  I asked for his help.  Explained that I simply could not read the minus 10 point font on the jars, and could he please help me find turkey, chicken, carrots, and rice.  He was most helpful.  He found turkey with chicken broth and carrots.  Couldn’t find anything with rice, so I chose a package of rice flakes to mix into the carrots.  I thought that would be the needed carbs for her.

Arriving at home, I fed her and was able to get some water into her.  Actually, a couple of times, she went to the water bowl and drank for a long time.  I figured out a way to get the food into her mouth.  Not a pretty sight!  Mostly, though, she lies very still – motionless.  And, I’m afraid to touch her for fear that she will not respond.

That pretty well sums up my last five days.  A nightmark on my part.

But, somewhere in there, Neighbor Rita went with me to purchase the new phone.  A “smart phone,” not an “iPhone.”  A whole new language for me.  She is also willing to help me work through the transition phase.  But, first there is Lady.

Be Safe and Be Well
The Cranky Crone
Thoughtful comments are appreciated.