I have know for a while that Coco was getting older and was in some pain from arthritis. This morning he couldn't walk without crying. I gave him some asprin and some other stuff the vet had given me to help calm him. It didn't help, so I called the vet who came over to see him.It turns out something is wrong with his back now. The vet gave him a shot today, will give him one tomorrow, and then one more on Wednesday. If the only problem is swelling, Coco will basicly be back to his old man self. If the problem is more severe, the shots won't work and he would need major surgery, months of rehab with medical specialists. All of this costs in the high 1000's of dollars, he will be in lots of pain for a long time (maybe for the rest of his life), if he even lives through it. At almost 14 he has beaten the odds for chows, who rarely live past 10. The doctor is not advising the expense, emotional rollercoaster, or the pain for a dog his age at all.
So, this may be the last three day I get with my Coco-pup. I am not really ready to say good-bye. I am holding out hope for the shots, but trying to prepare for the worst.
I have another shot I wanted to use today, but since I have even more to say about it, I will put it on Ponderings later.
11 comments:
Oh dear, Sandie :-(.
And, what a wistful expression he has in that photo.
He sure looks to be a great friend.
A beautiful dog - but more than that, he sounds like a true member of the family. I'm praying for longer than three days for you; I have no doubt that he feels incredibly loved.
- Matt
I'm really sorry to hear about your beautiful friend. He does look majestic, and wistful (see above).
I will be thinking of you both these days...
Coco looks like a wise old friend. I love how dogs start going gray around their mouth and nose as they age.
Hugs to you, Sandie!
I am sorry, Sandie. Coco looks like a sweetie. We had a beagle that we had to put to sleep, after the second time his back went out, because we just couldn't bear to confine him to cage rest for 6 weeks again. These kinds of decisions are so hard. I am hoping that the shots will clear up Coco's back problems.
Hug him for me!
Susan
(((Sandie))) I am sorry. I hope the shots work and he returns to health.
I'm so sorry about Coco! He's such a handsome dog! We had a Lab-shepherd that went through something very similar - just old age, I guess. I hope the shots work to make him more comfortable.
beautiful dog!!! I hope the shots help. ((Sandie))
That's very sad Sandie. What a kind face on the dear pup-- he trusts you to care for him the best way you can-- hope it's only the swelling! Sorry for your pain.
I'm really sorry Sandie. Such a sweet pet.
(((Sandie)))... I'm late reading this. I know how sad you must be. Coco is a sweet looking dog. It hurts so much to lose a pet. I hope Coco has a few more good days with you.
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