Awoke early this am and got in and got my shower and heard my hubby putting the dogs out. As I was getting dressed I heard him call out that one of the dogs, Duke- our almost 12 year old Golden Retriever was having problems. Duke has had some shaking when standing with his back legs but continues to play, eat, and all the normal things. Today he wouldn't move out in the snow and couldn't get in. I went out and continued to call and coax and finally he came in. He was able to give me a high five with both front paws albeit weak effort. I then brought out his bed and down he went. His abdomen feels hard and full to me so my medical mind is just racing and his Vet won't be in till one. Fortunately, Pa is home and will get him somewhere before that if he needs. He has been a gentle giant in our house and a very mellow dog. His love is to swim and that has taken a toll on his hearing. We now move around him as he doesn't always hear you come up behind him. I know his days are numbered and that came into focus this morning as I sit at work and write about my treasured friend that stayed with me all through my cancer. I said not long ago that if Duke died swimming we would both be happy as I would know he died doing what he loved. Now that this may be a possibility my heart sits at home. This dog wrestled with our youngest and always took snow hats off of kids out side, just to play. He loves to be touched and held and at night if I sit on the couch, up he comes to sit beside me. He loves treats and has never been heavy so he could have them although he loved fruits and vegetables just as much and I think he could have become a vegetarian if given the opportunity. I will check on him throughout the day and am anxious to get home to him. I am glad that Pa is home with him to support and evaluate him and keep me updated. This gentle giant has touched so many hearts and I hope today that he pulls through with his quality of life that makes him happy. If not, we will have to peacefully send him to his new home. Either way, my heart is full today-of sorrows and joys, laughter and tears, and smiles-mostly smiles for a dog that is my best friend. Make it a great day! S
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorMy name is Sue Kilburn and I am a clinical nurse breast cancer educator at the Yolanda G. Barco Oncology Institute in Meadville, Pennsylvania. Archives
March 2015
Categories |