Who could not love this adorable little guy? This is Gabriel, a twelve year old Shih Tzu. Much loved by all who meet him. A very significant part of this household.
Gabriel went to the vet today for a check up. He is the same as he was three weeks ago when I took him in and learned about his end-of-life condition. Oh, the end of life isn't tomorrow, or next week, or maybe even next year. It is, however, an end of life stage. He has nerve damage in his spine. He does not control his back legs very well. He walks with caution and often one or the other of his back legs gives way and causes him to collapse.
He does not seem to be in pain. Some days walking is easier that other days. We give him an anti-inflammatory. He weighs 6.4 pounds today, up from the 6.2 of a few months ago. He eats. He drinks water. He loves his treats after meds. He sits on Bill's lap for long periods of time while Bill reads. He sleeps curled up next to me at night.
The vet said that swimming in the bath tub might help him exercise his legs. I'll have to figure that one out. Also have to find a doggie life jacket for him. She, the vet, also gave me the name of a pet rehab facility. Didn't know such a thing existed. I may look into that too depending upon how I manage the bath tub thing.
End-of-life phases happen to all of us. Wonder how I will manage my own. Or Bill's for that matter. And who will be around to see to my meds and my rehab. These things can happen at any time. Best that we live each day fully and appreciatively.
Bill and I will do our best to love and care for Gabriel. We will do our best to love and care for one another.
