This year's blood work showed the same problem as last time -- no better, no worse -- and the vet said that was good news. Apparently, a dog's liver has multiple sections or lobes. When one goes bad, the others "kick it up a notch" to make up the difference. The fact that there's been no change indicates we don't have to worry about any loss of liver function.
The blood work did turn up one new problem: a low thyroid level. I had to take Kadi back for additional testing, which verified that test result, and now she takes thyroid pills twice a day. She didn't seem to feel bad before all the testing, but they tell me this should make her feel better and -- BONUS -- reduce hair loss.
Once all the testing was complete, it was time for dental cleaning. Unlike Butch, who was born with bad breath but good, solid teeth, Kadi has teeth that accumulate plaque at a phenomenal rate. Now, though, she's all fixed up, and her doggy smile is once more beautiful. In addition, she's had the first of two vaccinations that are supposed to inhibit the growth of dental bacteria. (Boy, do I wish they'd come up with a vaccine like that for humans.) We have to go back right after Christmas for the second shot.
All this animal health care is pricey, but times like last night convince me it's money well spent.
Watching the sentimental finale of "Kid Nation," I got into the spirit of the show and began shedding happy tears -- accompanied, of course, by noisy snuffling. I was focused so intently on the TV that it took me a moment to notice that Kadi had climbed onto the sofa and rested her chin on my shoulder. I turned to look at her and found her staring, big-eyed, right into my face. That's when I realized she'd wrapped both front paws around my arm and pulled it close to her body. Bless her heart. That was very nearly as good as any human hug I've ever had.
Oh Velvet, I just love stories about your Butch and Kadi-girl! What a sweet heart.
ReplyDeleteIt reminds me of my "nephew" -my sister's corgi, Baily. When I was home, we discovered his new trick. You can tell him to "Give me love" and he will jump into your lap and rub his head along your chest and over your shoulder! It's definitely one of the best hugs I've ever gotten.
The best part: since returning to LA, I've discovered he will do it to the phone when I request it! Awwwwww!
That's one of the sweetest doggy things I've ever heard! Occasionally Spot will wrap his front paws over my arm if he wants me to keep scritching him, but that's about it.
ReplyDeleteYep, I'd say that the vet care is worth it!
He will be yours, faithful and true, to last beat of his heart.
ReplyDeleteYou owe it to him to be worthy of such devotion.
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Awwwwwwwwwww. I love that. And what a sweet photo of such a sweet face. Bless.
ReplyDeleteWhat a sweet girl....just look at that face! How I love them and their love is unconditional. Of course we have to take care of them...they are like our children. I actually bought pet insurance one year but found it didn't cover a lot of the routine things, which was why I wanted it in the first place...so I cancelled. Ear scratches to Butch and Kadi and a happy Friday wish to YOU.
ReplyDeleteOur dogs really are our best friends, aren't they.
ReplyDeleteMy vet sold me some dog food that is specially formulated to knock plaque off dog's teeth - and my little dog really likes it. It's costly but hopefully worth it in dental health.
CreekHiker, your description of your sister's dog "giving love" brought a big smile to my face. How adorable!
ReplyDeleteJanet, it sounds as if Spot and Butch were cut from the same cloth. Butch will lie on the sofa beside me, then grab my hand and direct it to his underbelly. It's a purely selfish move, no confusing it with a hug.
Sister-Three, I haven't read that before, but it's so true.
Duly Inspired, I knew you'd like this one. :)
GTS Val, I've passed along your ear scratches and they were greatly appreciated.
Annie, they are without a doubt.
what a beautiful and sweet looking face! how can anyone not love a face like that?
ReplyDeletethank you for sharing her with us
peace and blessings
keepers