random truths – Day 1,051 (Wednesday) – old dogs

February 1, 2014 capped off a week of Moose being unwell. He had gotten sick on the bed two nights, and on the rug two different times. He was always thirsty and hungry, and urinating hourly from supper until bedtime. His belly was big and people thought he was pregnant when we went out for a walk. On February 1, 2014, the vet gave a preliminary diagnosis of Cushing’s Disease, which was confirmed by the results of blood work. Life had suddenly gotten more complicated and expensive. For me anyway.

For the next seven years, Moose took daily capsules that did a decent job of controlling his thirst, appetite, weight, and the other symptoms, although with time, the effect was less good. The bedtime routine of cookies before bed helped to control Moose’s nighttime stomach acid, and for a while he was even on antacids. It would have been impossible to give Moose treats and not Winston, and the bedtime cookie ritual continues to this day (night).

Win and Moo, when there were two.

Late in his life, Moose was diagnosed with an enlarged heart, but he didn’t let his health slow him down. Not much anyway. He had already decided he hated going for walks, but he still got excited for company, breakfast and supper, treats, and cuddles for the rest of his days. 

Two years and four months ago, Winston was diagnosed with diabetes. He’s still chugging along with arthritis in his knees on his back legs, terrible teeth and gums, loss of vision, and diabetes. He becomes very animated when company comes over, and is a good communicator when he wants treats, to go outside, or to go to bed. He’s a super duper little trooper.

In the human branch of the little family tree, it’s a budding collection of autoimmune diseases, and an unpredictable rotation of stabby knee pains, morning back pain, sciatica, and more than I want to dwell on. We old dogs, both canine and human, sure have our share of ailments. It is expensive, it stinks, and I’m 100% sure I didn’t sign up for this.