Well, it's been a whole month already, and our little Runner-Bug (aka RB) continues to progress every day.
I cannot remember the last time he coughed...though he does insist on watching me primp in the mornings and the hairspray makes him sneeze! He sneezed so hard the other day that he hit his poor little head on the floor, so now I make him sit on the bed...he can still see me if he stays on the end ;-)
RB has also learned that he is pretty much in charge of me and Dave....yes, he now barks continuously until you figure out what he wants. Don't get me wrong though - it's really not a big deal since he doesn't want much in life. You can pretty much bank on him wanting one of 3 things 1) off of the sofa or bed (since it's too high for him to jump down onto hardwood floors) 2) Potty Outside or 3) FOOD!!
Apparently RB had a previous life of being fed from the table because now that he is strong enough. He selects a victim (or family member) for each meal and then parks himself practically under your chair and waits. After waiting with no attention for a bit, he will start making groveling sounds that eventually escalate into a bark. At this point, we all laugh - because we are just so thrilled that he has gotten this healthy. If he still gets no attention, he is now strong enough to stand on his frail little hind legs and paw at your leg!! Now, I realize this is bad behavior for a dog...and I do not allow it from any of my own or any of my foster dogs, but it thrills me to see RB doing it. I can't wait to weigh him again...he has been eating three meals a day for the past month. I think he feels more solid now, but it could just be me wanting him to be. There is no denying that he is stronger though; I actually saw him RUN up the hill and into the house from outside the other day!
The downside is that he still smells like a Frito and he still has mats that will need to be cut out of his hair. He has really suckered me into letting him getaway without a bath all this time, but I'm afraid we cannot wait any longer...this weekend will be the end of the Frito smell!
A local kennel club is hosting a health clinic this Saturday. They offer it every year, so whenever I need titers or blood work, etc. for my own dogs, we go during the clinic. Since there was still time to register, I went ahead and registered Runner for a full senior work up so that we can see if there is anything else going on with him besides his enlarged heart.
I have put RB up on Petfinder to see if there is a perfect match out there waiting for him. We won't let him go just anywhere...it really needs to be perfect for him. I think his "ideal home" would be a quiet home with a mature person or couple that spends most of their time at home. It can be expensive to keep up with a senior dog's health, so that will be something to consider when screening his applicants. And of course, it would have to be someone who wouldn't mind cooking for him once a week (We cook one large batch and freeze it in meal portions to last all week). He just loses too much weight if you serve him strictly dog food...even with EVO, a smelly canned food, he barely picks at it. Maybe once his weight is stable, we can try to wean him back to a quality dog food - but if not, I figure he's been through enough in his nearly 10 years and if he can't find a home that will cook his meat and rice, then he can just stay with us. I did have one inquiry about him so far, but all it asked was "how much is his fee?" Those type of inquiries turn me off right away...if it's first and foremost about the money, then you aren't the right home for one of my dogs.
Well, that's all for now. Just wanted to let everyone know that the little fella is doing just fine and seems to enjoy life again. I will try to get new pics this week...particularly of bath time ;-)
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Another weekend with Runner (he's on day 16 today!)
We had snow this morning!!
Runner doesn't seem to mind the snow, now that he's feeling better. Actually, he took the long way around the yard before deciding where to do his morning potty thing!
(if you click on the pics, it will open a bigger one in another window)
These were taken from my front porch.
I don't have to go out with him now that he can walk without falling over!
And look at the picture on the right.... he can even walk up the steps with snow on them!!
Is it just me...or is he getting even cuter??
Runner continues to improve every day. He doesn't sleep at all if we are up and about, he follows us from room to room. He is eating and drinking very well and still not doing a lot of coughing, which I think is a good sign.
The most exciting thing that has happened over the last few days is that Runner Runs! Yep, he has been caught running a few times now. Not for long distances of course, but short little bursts and happy tail wags - it's awesome to watch this frail and sickly little dog come alive.
The ice storm really made for some cabin fever at our place...5 dogs with no way to run for several days is not a good thing...believe it or not, I was happy to deal with the mud!
I've decided to give Runner another week before subjecting him to the grooming that he so desperately needs. I can tell he is feeling better and needing it though because he is starting to chew at his feet and lick, etc. He has several mats that will become painful if we don't tend to them soon. We're supposed to get some warmer weather this weekend, so maybe I can take care of it then.
Runner seems to be learning how to communicate with us more clearly. He behaves more Shih Tzu "ish" every day :-) ... - Dave and I were sitting in the living room Monday evening before dinner. Dave on the sofa next to Runner, I was in a chair - the other dogs were playing on the floor and being silly. Runner suddenly stood up on the sofa and started barking. We thought maybe he had joined the "fun police" force...my Shih Tzu Willie is the sheriff ya know...
Here's Willie:
But no, he was looking at ME. Then I remembered that he had stayed home with David all day and probably did not get lunch...he must have missed the hamburger that Joyce usually brings him when he's at the office with me! As soon as I put his dinner down, he devoured it and was quite content afterwards!
Now we know that he too must know how to tell time! Our other Shih Tzu, Sammy has always known what time it is. If I get up later than usual, if his breakfast or dinner is late, etc. - he lets everyone know...Dave has always said that Sammy keeps a watch in his crate ;-)
Here's Sammy:
We have also learned that Runner is not so much of a morning dog...he sleeps right up until I pick him up off of the bed! I get up, take care of the other dogs, make coffee, do dishes, etc. - about 30 minutes later, I come into the bedroom to get a shower and he is STILL sleeping soundly! It works out well though - this way I can get the others settled before taking the little old man out. He is still pretty unsteady on his feet. He's doing much better, but could easily be knocked over by an over zealous dog with the morning zoomies!
Until next time.....
By the way...is anyone reading these anymore? If so, please send me a note so I'll know if I should keep writing. Thanks :-)
Runner doesn't seem to mind the snow, now that he's feeling better. Actually, he took the long way around the yard before deciding where to do his morning potty thing!
(if you click on the pics, it will open a bigger one in another window)
These were taken from my front porch.
I don't have to go out with him now that he can walk without falling over!
And look at the picture on the right.... he can even walk up the steps with snow on them!!
Is it just me...or is he getting even cuter??
Runner continues to improve every day. He doesn't sleep at all if we are up and about, he follows us from room to room. He is eating and drinking very well and still not doing a lot of coughing, which I think is a good sign.
The most exciting thing that has happened over the last few days is that Runner Runs! Yep, he has been caught running a few times now. Not for long distances of course, but short little bursts and happy tail wags - it's awesome to watch this frail and sickly little dog come alive.
The ice storm really made for some cabin fever at our place...5 dogs with no way to run for several days is not a good thing...believe it or not, I was happy to deal with the mud!
I've decided to give Runner another week before subjecting him to the grooming that he so desperately needs. I can tell he is feeling better and needing it though because he is starting to chew at his feet and lick, etc. He has several mats that will become painful if we don't tend to them soon. We're supposed to get some warmer weather this weekend, so maybe I can take care of it then.
Runner seems to be learning how to communicate with us more clearly. He behaves more Shih Tzu "ish" every day :-) ... - Dave and I were sitting in the living room Monday evening before dinner. Dave on the sofa next to Runner, I was in a chair - the other dogs were playing on the floor and being silly. Runner suddenly stood up on the sofa and started barking. We thought maybe he had joined the "fun police" force...my Shih Tzu Willie is the sheriff ya know...
Here's Willie:
But no, he was looking at ME. Then I remembered that he had stayed home with David all day and probably did not get lunch...he must have missed the hamburger that Joyce usually brings him when he's at the office with me! As soon as I put his dinner down, he devoured it and was quite content afterwards!
Now we know that he too must know how to tell time! Our other Shih Tzu, Sammy has always known what time it is. If I get up later than usual, if his breakfast or dinner is late, etc. - he lets everyone know...Dave has always said that Sammy keeps a watch in his crate ;-)
Here's Sammy:
We have also learned that Runner is not so much of a morning dog...he sleeps right up until I pick him up off of the bed! I get up, take care of the other dogs, make coffee, do dishes, etc. - about 30 minutes later, I come into the bedroom to get a shower and he is STILL sleeping soundly! It works out well though - this way I can get the others settled before taking the little old man out. He is still pretty unsteady on his feet. He's doing much better, but could easily be knocked over by an over zealous dog with the morning zoomies!
Until next time.....
By the way...is anyone reading these anymore? If so, please send me a note so I'll know if I should keep writing. Thanks :-)
Friday, January 30, 2009
Hello Runner Fans :-)
I’ve been trying to keep up with Runner’s Blog so that we can track his progress and there are a few out there who like to be kept in the loop.
He is really looking much better – his eyes are brighter, he is moving around more, and he stays AWAKE longer ;-)
He now barks and carries his tail over his back just like a Shih Tzu! He wags his tail when he’s happy – that really makes my heart sing because his little tail just hung down low for the whole first week because he felt so awful.
Runner has taken quickly to being spoiled…he barks at me if I try to leave without him now…it’s kinda cute, but I will be working on that to make sure he doesn’t develop (or have) separation anxiety. That can be an awful thing for a dog (and for their people!)…some dogs will inflict self harm from the anxiety of being left alone. I have started desensitizing him to it by gradually leaving for longer and longer periods and sometimes leaving and then coming right back inside, etc.
Aside from this morning’s breathing attack…or whatever it was…he’s really coming along quickly. (more details on that below)
He rarely coughs these days...maybe once or twice a day and not at all through the night. He has not needed the Torbutrol medicine since a ½ tablet on Monday morning!
Unfortunately for him, if he continues to feel this good, he may win himself a bath this weekend – gasp! :-O
Then this morning....he had a horrible breathing attack or what ever it was..it wasn't coughing it was more like gasping! It seemed to last forever, but was likely about 2 or 3 minutes. The poor thing was gasping and gasping, then acted like he was trying to cough something up, then gasping more. I was getting scared and didn't know what to do for him. I tried putting my fingers over his nostrils, as this works when my Shih Tzu has an attack - but they never last this long and it did not work for Runner. By the time he settled he was doing that thing that babies do after they've cried so hard for a long time...that sad and pitiful little sound. He's now sleeping...guess it wore his little body out. He had just finished eating and having some water a few minutes prior...I don't know if something went down wrong and got caught or just a coincidence...it was very scary though and I sure hope it doesn't become a regular occurrence and I hope it isn't part of his heart issue progressing. I'm glad he wasn't home alone.
Runner stayed home without me or Dave for the first time yesterday :-( Dave's son (David) was home for most of the day, but when I left for work and had to leave that little bewildered face it just broke my heart. He was only alone for about 4 hours before David returned home for the day, so hopefully he wasn't sad for too long. He now roams into David's room sometimes if the door is open; he just lies there and hangs out with him while he's on the computer. I guess it's a bit quieter in there. He really hates it when I leave the house. Last night I was on my way out to take my border collie to his agility class and Runner stood up on the sofa and barked at me! He did not want me to leave! It was very cute. When I returned he was equally happy to see me...it's so great to see him wag his tail :-)Runner really gave miss Buffy a talking to last night! Buffy is the 4 1/2 month Lhasa Poo foster pup, who thinks the world revolves around her and likes to body bump into the other dogs and get them stirred up. Obviously, we try to manage her when Runner is out and about, but she ran into him last night and he spun around, and growled, barked and snapped at her a few times! Woo Hoo! - You go Old Man Runner! :-) She didn't care, but I followed up with another talking to and she got a time out for it. There is no body bumping into the little dogs in our house...mama does not allow it!
Keep your fingers crossed that Runner will wake up refreshed and breathing freely today.
More later!
Another day with the Runner
I brought Runner to work with me again today...I just wasn't real comfortable leaving him alone all day yet. He has been doing so wonderful, becoming more and more mobile and rarely coughing at all.
Then this morning....he has a horrible breathing attack or what ever it was..it wasn't coughing it was more like gasping! It seemed to last forever, but was likely about 2 or 3 minutes. The poor thing was gasping and gasping, then acted like he was trying to cough something up, then gasping more. I was getting scared and didn't know what to do for him. I tried putting my fingers over his nostrils, as this works when my Shih Tzu has an attack - but they never last this long and it did not work for Runner. By the time he settled he was doing that thing that babies do after they've cried so hard for a long time...that sad and pitiful little sound. He's now sleeping...guess it wore his little body out. He had just finished eating and having some water a few minutes prior...I don't know if something went down wrong and got caught or just a coincidence...it was very scary though and I sure hope it doesn't become a regular occurrence and I hope it isn't part of his heart issue progressing. I'm glad he wasn't home alone.
Runner stayed home without me or Dave for the first time yesterday :-( Dave's son (David) was home for most of the day, but when I left for work and had to leave that little bewildered face it just broke my heart. He was only alone for about 4 hours before David returned home for the day, so hopefully he wasn't sad for too long. He really hates it when I leave the house. Last night I was on my way out to take my border collie to his agility class and Runner stood up on the sofa are barked at me! He did not want me to leave! It was very cute. When I returned he was equally happy to see me...it's great to see him wag his tail :-)
Runner really gave miss Buffy a talking to last night! Buffy is the 4 1/2 month Lhasa Poo, who thinks the world revolves around her and likes to body bump into the other dogs and get them stirred up. Obviously, we try to manage her when Runner is out and about, but she ran into him last night and he spun around, and growled, barked and snapped at her a few times! Woo Hoo - You go Old Man Runner! :-) She didn't care, but I followed up with another talking to and she got a time out for it.
Keep your fingers crossed that Runner will wake up refreshed and breathing freely.
More later!
Then this morning....he has a horrible breathing attack or what ever it was..it wasn't coughing it was more like gasping! It seemed to last forever, but was likely about 2 or 3 minutes. The poor thing was gasping and gasping, then acted like he was trying to cough something up, then gasping more. I was getting scared and didn't know what to do for him. I tried putting my fingers over his nostrils, as this works when my Shih Tzu has an attack - but they never last this long and it did not work for Runner. By the time he settled he was doing that thing that babies do after they've cried so hard for a long time...that sad and pitiful little sound. He's now sleeping...guess it wore his little body out. He had just finished eating and having some water a few minutes prior...I don't know if something went down wrong and got caught or just a coincidence...it was very scary though and I sure hope it doesn't become a regular occurrence and I hope it isn't part of his heart issue progressing. I'm glad he wasn't home alone.
Runner stayed home without me or Dave for the first time yesterday :-( Dave's son (David) was home for most of the day, but when I left for work and had to leave that little bewildered face it just broke my heart. He was only alone for about 4 hours before David returned home for the day, so hopefully he wasn't sad for too long. He really hates it when I leave the house. Last night I was on my way out to take my border collie to his agility class and Runner stood up on the sofa are barked at me! He did not want me to leave! It was very cute. When I returned he was equally happy to see me...it's great to see him wag his tail :-)Runner really gave miss Buffy a talking to last night! Buffy is the 4 1/2 month Lhasa Poo, who thinks the world revolves around her and likes to body bump into the other dogs and get them stirred up. Obviously, we try to manage her when Runner is out and about, but she ran into him last night and he spun around, and growled, barked and snapped at her a few times! Woo Hoo - You go Old Man Runner! :-) She didn't care, but I followed up with another talking to and she got a time out for it.
Keep your fingers crossed that Runner will wake up refreshed and breathing freely.
More later!
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Wednesday Jan 28
Runner stayed home with hubby yesterday since he was off from work. Hubby allows more freedom than I do (because I'm a worrier!)
I received the first report about noon that Runner had eaten his breakfast and then later barked to go outside!!! Whoa - never did that for me! My husband left Runner out to roam around the house and do whatever he'd like. Runner chose to follow my husband EVERYWHERE. I guess at some point they were hanging out on the sofa and when Dave got up to go to the bathroom, Runner hopped down as if he does it everyday! That may not sound like a big deal, but he couldn't even walk down the hall last week.
Dave had to get an x-ray of his foot yesterday and decided to take Runner along (he's a sucker...didn't want to leave the little fella home alone). When he was finished with his appointment, he took Runner to McDonald's for a hamburger! :-) While waiting in line, the girl at the window was ooohing and awwwing over Runner...Dave told her his story and told her that he just loves McDonald's burgers. She came back with 2 FREE Patties for Runner! We're going to take Runner to the steak house next and see what happens there ;-)
When I got home from work, Runner was STILL awake. Apparently he stayed awake all day yesterday and did not cough or sneeze all day! He ate his dinner and slept well again last night.
This morning I stayed home because of the nasty weather (and I also have a little 5 month pup who was spayed yesterday...she's not feeling great). So, Runner slept late (he sleeps until I get him up, at which time he needs to pee right away). I took him out onto the sheet of white ice in the yard and grimaced as I watched him try to walk around and choose a spot. It's funny, the dogs continue to search for a spot of grass even though everything is white as far as you can see. He finally stopped and peed. He just looked up at me as if to say, "are you going to pick me up or watch me struggle back to the house?!" So of course, I carried him inside. I'm thinking I will have to dig a spot for them today before Runner has to do #2...he'll never be able to brace himself on the ice that long.
I gave him his breakfast and he promptly began tipping the bowl with his snout and making a mess. I picked up the dish and then he knocked over his water dish!! I have no idea what this was about, but we decided to hold off on breakfast for a bit. I set the dish on the counter, went to check on my email, came back and the dish was empty. Hmmm...I only have one dog that could have reached the bowl...my border collie...my perfect angel BINX??!! Ohhhhh - I guess it's similar to the feeling you get when you learn that your kids aren't perfect? Sigh...so I put Binx in his crate and hit myself over the head with a newspaper because I, as the human, should have known better than to leave Binx unattended with chicken sitting on the edge of the counter.
I waited an hour and then made myself some eggs and toast. I figured I'd make Runner an egg also. Nope. Runner does not like eggs today. Runner does however know all about people eating at the table. He demonstrated last night at dinner and again this morning that he is well aware of what goes on at the table. He left his bowl of eggs to come beg at the table.
Finally after my breakfast, I added some shredded chicken and rice to his eggs and he did eat "some" of it - but not much. I told him we'd heat his extra hamburger from yesterday's outing for lunch today. Maybe that will suit the little booger!
So far all of the dogs are getting along nicely. Runner stands and allows them to sniff, but really wants nothing to do with any of them. He just wants to be with people...he doesn't like to be left alone in a room - he will follow you if possible. That's pretty common with dogs that have been abandoned in shelters, lost and on their own, etc. I'd love to know his story.
That's all I have for now - will update again soon!
I received the first report about noon that Runner had eaten his breakfast and then later barked to go outside!!! Whoa - never did that for me! My husband left Runner out to roam around the house and do whatever he'd like. Runner chose to follow my husband EVERYWHERE. I guess at some point they were hanging out on the sofa and when Dave got up to go to the bathroom, Runner hopped down as if he does it everyday! That may not sound like a big deal, but he couldn't even walk down the hall last week.
Dave had to get an x-ray of his foot yesterday and decided to take Runner along (he's a sucker...didn't want to leave the little fella home alone). When he was finished with his appointment, he took Runner to McDonald's for a hamburger! :-) While waiting in line, the girl at the window was ooohing and awwwing over Runner...Dave told her his story and told her that he just loves McDonald's burgers. She came back with 2 FREE Patties for Runner! We're going to take Runner to the steak house next and see what happens there ;-)
When I got home from work, Runner was STILL awake. Apparently he stayed awake all day yesterday and did not cough or sneeze all day! He ate his dinner and slept well again last night.
This morning I stayed home because of the nasty weather (and I also have a little 5 month pup who was spayed yesterday...she's not feeling great). So, Runner slept late (he sleeps until I get him up, at which time he needs to pee right away). I took him out onto the sheet of white ice in the yard and grimaced as I watched him try to walk around and choose a spot. It's funny, the dogs continue to search for a spot of grass even though everything is white as far as you can see. He finally stopped and peed. He just looked up at me as if to say, "are you going to pick me up or watch me struggle back to the house?!" So of course, I carried him inside. I'm thinking I will have to dig a spot for them today before Runner has to do #2...he'll never be able to brace himself on the ice that long.
I gave him his breakfast and he promptly began tipping the bowl with his snout and making a mess. I picked up the dish and then he knocked over his water dish!! I have no idea what this was about, but we decided to hold off on breakfast for a bit. I set the dish on the counter, went to check on my email, came back and the dish was empty. Hmmm...I only have one dog that could have reached the bowl...my border collie...my perfect angel BINX??!! Ohhhhh - I guess it's similar to the feeling you get when you learn that your kids aren't perfect? Sigh...so I put Binx in his crate and hit myself over the head with a newspaper because I, as the human, should have known better than to leave Binx unattended with chicken sitting on the edge of the counter.
I waited an hour and then made myself some eggs and toast. I figured I'd make Runner an egg also. Nope. Runner does not like eggs today. Runner does however know all about people eating at the table. He demonstrated last night at dinner and again this morning that he is well aware of what goes on at the table. He left his bowl of eggs to come beg at the table.
Finally after my breakfast, I added some shredded chicken and rice to his eggs and he did eat "some" of it - but not much. I told him we'd heat his extra hamburger from yesterday's outing for lunch today. Maybe that will suit the little booger!
So far all of the dogs are getting along nicely. Runner stands and allows them to sniff, but really wants nothing to do with any of them. He just wants to be with people...he doesn't like to be left alone in a room - he will follow you if possible. That's pretty common with dogs that have been abandoned in shelters, lost and on their own, etc. I'd love to know his story.
That's all I have for now - will update again soon!
Monday, January 26, 2009
It's Monday...Runner feels pretty good today
Well, we all slept pretty well last night...once I was able to force the tiny little tablet down the tiny little dog's throat (what a bully), all was good!
Our 4 1/2 month foster dog, Buffy is just so full of herself and thinks that SHE should be the center of everyone's attention. Needless to say, she is very curious and a wee bit jealous of Runner. So we've been dealing with her antics lately...barking every time I pick Runner up or even if he makes a sound. She tries to get on the bed and "meet him" - which is not allowed until the end of 14 days of anti-biotics...just want to be sure his cough is not contagious. My Shih Tzus seem to understand that he is sick and needs special attention. They would normally be beating down the door and having a fit if we were "keeping a dog from them in our room", but they aren't. They just look at him and us curiously but are pretty well behaved about the whole thing. My border collie of course could care less. His motto is live and let live...very laid back with all dogs. He has never met a dog he can't get along with.
I took Runner out this morning to potty and he seemed to be enjoying himself in that BRISK air...he stands there forever before he finally "goes". Then he stood there for a very long time again. We headed for the office, Runner sleeping in his seat all the way. We arrived and he was up and about...looking for breakfast I assume. He began eating and I headed up front for coffee. I came back and the booger was on the other side of my co-worker's work station, snorting and rubbing his face all over the carpet! My co-worker says, "He's over here...he might have spit up...he has white stuff on his face." No, that was his breakfast...shredded chicken breast. He says, "was it marinated or just roasted?" Ha-Ha!! Yes, that stings a bit, but he's worth it! :-)
Runner continued to be a bit more mobile than I prefer since we are at the office and I need him to stay put and stay quiet here, so I gave him a 1/2 dose of his night-time medicine and now he's lying at my feet...sound asleep ;-) (he is prescribed 3 full tablets as needed per day...he only gets 1/2 in the morning and a whole tab before bed - didn't want to give the impression I'm overdosing the little guy). There is only one person at my office that would like to kick Runner out, but that one person can get rather loud about things, so I'd prefer to keep Runner out of sight and out of mind until I can leave him home alone for a full day.
This is Runner at home this morning, with his sleepy face, getting a morning drink before heading to the office:
Our 4 1/2 month foster dog, Buffy is just so full of herself and thinks that SHE should be the center of everyone's attention. Needless to say, she is very curious and a wee bit jealous of Runner. So we've been dealing with her antics lately...barking every time I pick Runner up or even if he makes a sound. She tries to get on the bed and "meet him" - which is not allowed until the end of 14 days of anti-biotics...just want to be sure his cough is not contagious. My Shih Tzus seem to understand that he is sick and needs special attention. They would normally be beating down the door and having a fit if we were "keeping a dog from them in our room", but they aren't. They just look at him and us curiously but are pretty well behaved about the whole thing. My border collie of course could care less. His motto is live and let live...very laid back with all dogs. He has never met a dog he can't get along with.
I took Runner out this morning to potty and he seemed to be enjoying himself in that BRISK air...he stands there forever before he finally "goes". Then he stood there for a very long time again. We headed for the office, Runner sleeping in his seat all the way. We arrived and he was up and about...looking for breakfast I assume. He began eating and I headed up front for coffee. I came back and the booger was on the other side of my co-worker's work station, snorting and rubbing his face all over the carpet! My co-worker says, "He's over here...he might have spit up...he has white stuff on his face." No, that was his breakfast...shredded chicken breast. He says, "was it marinated or just roasted?" Ha-Ha!! Yes, that stings a bit, but he's worth it! :-)
Runner continued to be a bit more mobile than I prefer since we are at the office and I need him to stay put and stay quiet here, so I gave him a 1/2 dose of his night-time medicine and now he's lying at my feet...sound asleep ;-) (he is prescribed 3 full tablets as needed per day...he only gets 1/2 in the morning and a whole tab before bed - didn't want to give the impression I'm overdosing the little guy). There is only one person at my office that would like to kick Runner out, but that one person can get rather loud about things, so I'd prefer to keep Runner out of sight and out of mind until I can leave him home alone for a full day.
This is Runner at home this morning, with his sleepy face, getting a morning drink before heading to the office:
Sunday, January 25, 2009
RUNNER'S FIRST WEEKEND:
Entered Sun: 1/25/09
I am learning that Runner is quite the little Booger...for one thing, he is SO finicky about what he will eat...not only does it have to be people food...not just any people food...only certain things. And I guess it's MY job to figure out which things they are :-\ For the record, I do not fuss with what my dogs like and what they don't like...my dogs eat whatever I give them, along with any pills or supplements that happen to fall into their dish...no kidding - ask my mother...it still amazes her that they do this. So needless to say, I am just stumped with this little dog...I cannot play my game with him because he "needs" to eat too much. He is very under-weight and very sick...which is quite different than when a normal, healthy dog decides to "hold out" for something better. I have to play Runner's game so that he will regain his strength.
Anyway...on to this episode of the booger's pickiness...In my angst to get Runner to poop on Friday evening...I tried to serve him a teaspoon of canned pumpkin (it is known to both firm and soften stool - great stuff for dogs!) My other 4 dogs were lined up, offering every trick they know to get a lick of the spoon...not Runner. Nope. Turned his pretty little head away as if to say, "are you kiddin' me lady? Take that back to the kitchen, put the rest of the ingredients in it, pour it in a pie crust and bake it...then bring it back and MAYBE I'll eat it." Hmph. Being the wise dog lady that I think I am (he-he...right), I had a bright idea to mix it with vanilla ice cream...sounds reasonable? Don't you know he still only ate a minimum of the pumpkin and at least half was pushed and smooshed against the side of the bowl...all of the ice cream was gone. Nope, I'm not so wise at all. I always say that each dog that comes into my life teaches me something new about myself as well as them...boy does Runner have some education to share :-\
Oh, and here's the greatest news of the week: RUNNER POOPED!! WOO HOO!! I was really getting worried about the little booger...he'd had about 8 meals and no pooping! But let me tell you...this may be where his name came from...
I carried him outside as usual (in the dark and frigid night I might add) and waited for him to pee (since he never poops). We stood there, him swaying as the wind blew, just looking around...then finally walked a couple of steps and peed. I did my happy potty dance and told him how good he was and started towards the front steps. As Runner reached the side walk, he spun around, hiked up his back hips, and trotted rather quickly away from me, toward the side of the house, which then wraps around to the back yard. He began pooping just before he turned the corner and CONTINUED to poop AS HE RAN down the hill! I burst out laughing in the dark silence and took a few quick steps to be able to keep eye on him, but he was GONE! He got around the corner, down the slope, and around the back of the house that fast??!! Whoa!! Go Runner!
Here is a picture of him on his way around the corner...then I tried to get a couple of shots that might give you an idea of how far he ran away from me just to poop! Above is the bend around our house...Runner is not the only dog that likes this route, as you can see from the worn path... :-\
Above left is the corner he turned to the back. Above right is the little booger trying to walk back up the hill that he so easily ran down...of course I picked him up and carried him back so he wouldn't compromise his breathing.
Runner's cough was not as bad on Friday night as it was on Thursday...but I was still up with him at least 4 or 5 times. I only gave him 1/2 of the cough suppressant/sedative...he got the whole thing on Saturday night ;-)
Saturday was fairly uneventful...he still sleeps a lot, which his body probably needs in order to heal. He ate pretty well and was more alert during the day than usual. I took my border collie for a hike at Fair Hill and left Runner in the downstairs den with the TV on. When I came home a couple of hours later, Runner was at the top of the steps, looking for me!!! YAY! - more strength!!
He ate his dinner, but boy did I have a time getting his meds in him before bed! Apparently he was feeling really good on Saturday, because not only did he fight me on his meds, but he walked down the front porch steps to pee, then came back up the steps and into the house all by himself! I am really pleased that he has found this energy reserve to move about a little more.
As I mentioned earlier, I gave Runner his whole dosage of the cough sup./sedative Saturday night before bed. He (and I) slept much better ;-). Upon wakening, we did our usual thing - outside to pee (and he pooped again!!) then back inside for breakfast. I took him downstairs and set him up with the heater (he likes to lie in front of it) since Dave and I were about to leave for church. But when we came home, Runner had not eaten his breakfast :-(
I brought him back up to our bed (that's where he hangs out when we're home until he's cleared that he doesn't have a cold that could be passed to the other dogs) I heated up his breakfast and tried to hand feed it to him - he just turned his head. Nothing.
We had my parents over for an early dinner as we always do on Sunday. Afterwards, I boiled some chicken breast and took a couple of very small pieces to him....Nothing. He would sniff...but not eat. This really concerned me. He is not strong enough to skip meals or lose his appetite now!
We took him some broth from the chicken and he lapped it up readily. We started to wonder if maybe his mouth had somehow become sore (he did have 11 teeth pulled only a week ago). So I put the chicken in the food processor and shredded it. That seemed to do the trick...he ate what I gave him. Then I screwed it up...I took him more, only with his anti-biotic wrapped in pill pocket. He woudln't eat it!! He has been eating the little pill pockets (I use small pieces of it, not the whole thing) in his hamburger meals all week with no issue. Suddenly, he won't touch it?! Sigh... Needless to say, I took the chicken back in to him an hour later WITHOUT the pills. He ate every bite and licked the bowl clean. Runner is going to give me a work-out!
I guess I'll have to see what tomorrow brings...I sure hope chicken is still ok with him!
I do have somewhat of a dilemma with his medication now. I have to force his pills down...which I hate to do because of his recent dental surgery...but he really needs these meds, I feel like I'm bullying a little 11 pound dog...only he always wins at least the first 2 times I try!
Thanks again for your prayers and support...we'll update soon!
Angie and Runner
Friday, January 23, 2009
DAY 4 WITH RUNNER: Entered 01/23/09
I already wrote a separate post about Runner's vet visit yesterday - which went "ok" I think.
He seemed to be coughing much less yesterday, but boy he made up for it last night! The poor little guy was up most of the night with a terrible cough...I have some medicine that the vet gave us though and I'm hoping that will help him sleep better tonight (hence WE will also sleep better!)
He ate his dinner and when Dave went down to check on him after we were finished with our dinner, he said he was wandering around downstairs...which is AWESOME that he had some energy to do that!
He's here with me at work again today...I still don't feel comfortable leaving him alone. 1) he is so weak and his breathing becomes very labored at times...2) It is not a good idea for him to become stressed right now. I'm afraid he will go backward in his progress...I don't want him feeling lonely or barking and further aggravating his trachea issue.
He ate breakfast as readily as ever - it is now 1:30 pm and he is sitting in his bed, eyes wide open, looking at me (see above picture) ... perhaps he has learned to tell time and knows that his lunch meal is late?
I took his sweater off today since the temperatures finally went up to something tolerable, besides that, I have a space heater under the desk to keep things warm back here anyway.
His coat is such a pretty color and is soft as cotton. It appears to be matted and his skin is flaking and dirty...he really needs some grooming, but I'm going to hold off on that until I know he is feeling better. I can't imagine being so sick that I don't want to walk and have someone throw me in the tub - grrr...I would be mad! He's cute anyway...even if he does smell like a Frito!
That's all I have for now...hopefully the day will remain fairly uneventful for Runner...
RUNNER'S VET VISIT JAN 22nd
I took Runner to my vet yesterday afternoon for an exam and to get their opinion of Runner's condition.
The doctor said that his heart murmur is pretty bad but the positive thing is that his heart rhythm is normal. He also said his lungs sounded ok...he does not think he has pneumonia as I had feared. He said he suspects that the coughing "could" be coming from irritation to the trachea either from his recent surgery (from being intubated) or it could also be that his heart is enlarged to the extent it may be pressing on and irritating his trachea.
He took an x-ray and sure enough, Runner's trachea is higher than it should be and his heart is definitely enlarged and looks very close to the trachea (in a dog, the trachea runs long-ways above the heart, but should slant down and his is almost straight). The x-ray was unfortunately taken on expiration instead of inspiration...so we couldn't see as much as we would like, but the doc's educated opinion is that Runner is not in congestive heart failure as of now. He said it does not "look" like there is fluid in/around the lungs and that the vessels do not look like they would if he was in CHF. He also said the cough would sound "wetter" if he were in CHF...I hope I know the difference if it happens because it already sounds "wet" to me sometimes :-\
Also, the doc said there is no benefit to putting Runner on heart meds unless he is in CHF. He did prescribe Torbutrol...which is a mainly a cough suppresent, but it is also a type of sedative (kind of like codeine for us). I am apprehensive to give it to him because he is so lethargic already; I'm afraid this will make him coma-tose! I've decided to give him a 1/2 of a 1mg tablet this morning because his coughing seems pretty frequent again. We were up most of the night with his coughing last night...so maybe this will at least give him some relief for bed time.
So the summary is - keep an eye on him, keep up with his meds and meals, and if he gets worse, call the vet again. He could not say 100% that Runner doesn't have a cold (or some form of kennel cough - there are several strains of the bacteria and also some are viral), so we will continue his anti-biotics to be safe. He also said that Runners mouth looks good (referring to his several extractions that he had only 8 days ago).
I'll try to get some pictures of him this evening to post for everyone.
The doctor said that his heart murmur is pretty bad but the positive thing is that his heart rhythm is normal. He also said his lungs sounded ok...he does not think he has pneumonia as I had feared. He said he suspects that the coughing "could" be coming from irritation to the trachea either from his recent surgery (from being intubated) or it could also be that his heart is enlarged to the extent it may be pressing on and irritating his trachea.
He took an x-ray and sure enough, Runner's trachea is higher than it should be and his heart is definitely enlarged and looks very close to the trachea (in a dog, the trachea runs long-ways above the heart, but should slant down and his is almost straight). The x-ray was unfortunately taken on expiration instead of inspiration...so we couldn't see as much as we would like, but the doc's educated opinion is that Runner is not in congestive heart failure as of now. He said it does not "look" like there is fluid in/around the lungs and that the vessels do not look like they would if he was in CHF. He also said the cough would sound "wetter" if he were in CHF...I hope I know the difference if it happens because it already sounds "wet" to me sometimes :-\
Also, the doc said there is no benefit to putting Runner on heart meds unless he is in CHF. He did prescribe Torbutrol...which is a mainly a cough suppresent, but it is also a type of sedative (kind of like codeine for us). I am apprehensive to give it to him because he is so lethargic already; I'm afraid this will make him coma-tose! I've decided to give him a 1/2 of a 1mg tablet this morning because his coughing seems pretty frequent again. We were up most of the night with his coughing last night...so maybe this will at least give him some relief for bed time.
So the summary is - keep an eye on him, keep up with his meds and meals, and if he gets worse, call the vet again. He could not say 100% that Runner doesn't have a cold (or some form of kennel cough - there are several strains of the bacteria and also some are viral), so we will continue his anti-biotics to be safe. He also said that Runners mouth looks good (referring to his several extractions that he had only 8 days ago).
I'll try to get some pictures of him this evening to post for everyone.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
DAY 3 WITH RUNNER - 01/22/2009
January 22nd:
Last night my dearest and tolerant of my dog obsession husband had a wonderful idea to run the humidifier/vaporizor in our room to maybe help Runner breathe better. (it helps us breathe better too, but I think he was trying to score points by saying it was all for the dog!) It was sweet, either way :-)
Runner decided to sleep at the BOTTOM of the bed this time...I mean, right on the edge. I tried to move him, but he just scooted right back to it. Not only was he at the bottom edge, but he insisted on being right next to Dave's feet...very dangerous! I kept envisioning Dave flipping over and hearing Runner crash to the floor. Fortunately, Runner decided to move up higher and to Dave's opposite side...I think he liked being closer to the humidifier (at least that's what I'm telling myself since he was as far away from me as possible!)
Since he was over there, guess who got to see him first in the morning? You got it, Dave woke up and saw the little pink tongue sticking out...and the dog barely moves at all when he's sleeping...so Dave got the feeling of dread instead of me this morning! And fortunately, again, it was just his lethargic little self with a dry mouth.
We repeated the routine of the day before, except this time I brought his new found favorite recipe with me to feed his breakfast. He continued to slumber, as I carried him from our bed, to the car, into the office and put him in his bed behind my desk. I opened my carry-bag and removed his dish and the baggie of hamburger mixture....his eyes flew open WIDE and he sat up and looked me right in the eye! I warmed it up and hid my "get well secrets" in the food. He wasted no time at all licking the bowl clean, had some water, then turned as if to say, "what's for dessert?" My heart just sings when he is alert and while I do know that he is still a very sick little dog, seeing him eat like that is so encouraging. At least I know he is getting enjoyment from something.
My friend Joyce brought him another hamburger for lunch time - this time from Wendy's! My co-worker said Runner is going to become a hamburger connoisseur and may begin critiquing where the burger comes from soon!
After eating his very own burger patty, he then turns to me with those big shih-tzu eyes (yeah, I do believe the eyes came from a Tzu), as if to say, "What are YOU eating? Can I have a bite?"
I was eating a turkey and cheese on wheat toast...which I prompty shared with Runner. He was skeptical at first, but quickly decided I had not steered him wrong yet (ok, except when I didn't realize he had to pee on the first night), and he gulped down a bite of turkey and cheese. "Mmmmmm", his face read...."got any more?" I guess I'm a real sucker for old and sick little dogs, because I ended up feeding him at least one of the slices of turkey from my sandwich.
We have a vet appointment today at 4:30. I'm interested in my own vet's opinion, would like to get another listen of his heart and lungs (I'm worried that this cough/sneeze/lethargy could also be pneumonia) Maybe they will x-ray his chest to see if the heart is enlarged....and to confirm if he's in CHF. I also want to see if he should take any meds for the heart murmur, etc.
I usually have agility practice at the kennel club with my border collie on Thursdays, but it's "girls night" tonight...Dave's sisters and cousin come over every 4th Thursdsay of the month. It's a nice way to stay in touch - we take turns "doing dinner". Janice is bringing Popeye's tonight - yummm!
I wouldn't have went out with Runner feeling so bad anyway....
I will write more tomorrow after we hear what the vet says...
Last night my dearest and tolerant of my dog obsession husband had a wonderful idea to run the humidifier/vaporizor in our room to maybe help Runner breathe better. (it helps us breathe better too, but I think he was trying to score points by saying it was all for the dog!) It was sweet, either way :-)
Runner decided to sleep at the BOTTOM of the bed this time...I mean, right on the edge. I tried to move him, but he just scooted right back to it. Not only was he at the bottom edge, but he insisted on being right next to Dave's feet...very dangerous! I kept envisioning Dave flipping over and hearing Runner crash to the floor. Fortunately, Runner decided to move up higher and to Dave's opposite side...I think he liked being closer to the humidifier (at least that's what I'm telling myself since he was as far away from me as possible!)
Since he was over there, guess who got to see him first in the morning? You got it, Dave woke up and saw the little pink tongue sticking out...and the dog barely moves at all when he's sleeping...so Dave got the feeling of dread instead of me this morning! And fortunately, again, it was just his lethargic little self with a dry mouth.
We repeated the routine of the day before, except this time I brought his new found favorite recipe with me to feed his breakfast. He continued to slumber, as I carried him from our bed, to the car, into the office and put him in his bed behind my desk. I opened my carry-bag and removed his dish and the baggie of hamburger mixture....his eyes flew open WIDE and he sat up and looked me right in the eye! I warmed it up and hid my "get well secrets" in the food. He wasted no time at all licking the bowl clean, had some water, then turned as if to say, "what's for dessert?" My heart just sings when he is alert and while I do know that he is still a very sick little dog, seeing him eat like that is so encouraging. At least I know he is getting enjoyment from something.
My friend Joyce brought him another hamburger for lunch time - this time from Wendy's! My co-worker said Runner is going to become a hamburger connoisseur and may begin critiquing where the burger comes from soon!
After eating his very own burger patty, he then turns to me with those big shih-tzu eyes (yeah, I do believe the eyes came from a Tzu), as if to say, "What are YOU eating? Can I have a bite?"
I was eating a turkey and cheese on wheat toast...which I prompty shared with Runner. He was skeptical at first, but quickly decided I had not steered him wrong yet (ok, except when I didn't realize he had to pee on the first night), and he gulped down a bite of turkey and cheese. "Mmmmmm", his face read...."got any more?" I guess I'm a real sucker for old and sick little dogs, because I ended up feeding him at least one of the slices of turkey from my sandwich.
We have a vet appointment today at 4:30. I'm interested in my own vet's opinion, would like to get another listen of his heart and lungs (I'm worried that this cough/sneeze/lethargy could also be pneumonia) Maybe they will x-ray his chest to see if the heart is enlarged....and to confirm if he's in CHF. I also want to see if he should take any meds for the heart murmur, etc.
I usually have agility practice at the kennel club with my border collie on Thursdays, but it's "girls night" tonight...Dave's sisters and cousin come over every 4th Thursdsay of the month. It's a nice way to stay in touch - we take turns "doing dinner". Janice is bringing Popeye's tonight - yummm!
I wouldn't have went out with Runner feeling so bad anyway....
I will write more tomorrow after we hear what the vet says...
DAY 2 WITH RUNNER - 01/21/2009
January 21st:
When I woke up and looked at Runner, he was lying VERY still with his tongue sticking out of his mouth...yep, you know what I was thinking.
Shew! Guess he just had a dry mouth...he was fine...just his typical lethargic self.
He laid there in that same spot while I took the other dogs outside, fed them breakfast, let them romp and play, had coffee, came back in, took a shower...Runner is still lying there, completely still with the exception of the occasional coughing and sneezing spell (which sounds absolutely horrible!)
I once again brought in some canned food (the quality good stuff too...the stuff my guys love) and he wouldn't touch it. I offered water, which he happily lapped up.
Dave and I decided that we really didn't feel comfortable leaving the little guy alone yet, so I packed him up with a dog bed and took him to the office :-)
The poor guy was so sick that no one even noticed he was behind my desk...he never moved until he had to go potty. He got up and walked away from the bed - I took him out and he peed. So I guess that's his "sign" that he needs to "go" - he just gets up to go!
My friend and co-worker brought him a McDonald's hamburger at lunch time....Runner REALLY likes hamburger! I was so happy to find that he does have an appetite and he does like to eat...just not dog food I guess. Which is fine by me - he just needs to eat something. He is so frail and unsteady on his feet.
After the work day we went home and Runner hangs out in his "den" while I care for the rest of the crew upstairs. While I was up there I made 2 lb of hamburger with scrambled eggs and rice so that we would have some prepared meals for Runner for a few days. I portioned it out in sandwich bags and froze them so we can just pop them in the microwave at feeding time.
This is wonderful that he will eat this from his dish now, as I can hide the Clavomox and also a multi-vitamin blend for dogs to boost their immune system. He really perked up when I came downstairs with his dinner...he ate the whole thing and was looking for more! Of course I didn't want to bloat his stomach by feeding too much too soon...but I am going to increase his feedings to 3x a day until we get his weight on track.
What a sweet and wonderful boy he is...I so hope that he recovers long enough to enjoy life with us.
When I woke up and looked at Runner, he was lying VERY still with his tongue sticking out of his mouth...yep, you know what I was thinking.
Shew! Guess he just had a dry mouth...he was fine...just his typical lethargic self.
He laid there in that same spot while I took the other dogs outside, fed them breakfast, let them romp and play, had coffee, came back in, took a shower...Runner is still lying there, completely still with the exception of the occasional coughing and sneezing spell (which sounds absolutely horrible!)
I once again brought in some canned food (the quality good stuff too...the stuff my guys love) and he wouldn't touch it. I offered water, which he happily lapped up.
Dave and I decided that we really didn't feel comfortable leaving the little guy alone yet, so I packed him up with a dog bed and took him to the office :-)
The poor guy was so sick that no one even noticed he was behind my desk...he never moved until he had to go potty. He got up and walked away from the bed - I took him out and he peed. So I guess that's his "sign" that he needs to "go" - he just gets up to go!
My friend and co-worker brought him a McDonald's hamburger at lunch time....Runner REALLY likes hamburger! I was so happy to find that he does have an appetite and he does like to eat...just not dog food I guess. Which is fine by me - he just needs to eat something. He is so frail and unsteady on his feet.
After the work day we went home and Runner hangs out in his "den" while I care for the rest of the crew upstairs. While I was up there I made 2 lb of hamburger with scrambled eggs and rice so that we would have some prepared meals for Runner for a few days. I portioned it out in sandwich bags and froze them so we can just pop them in the microwave at feeding time.
This is wonderful that he will eat this from his dish now, as I can hide the Clavomox and also a multi-vitamin blend for dogs to boost their immune system. He really perked up when I came downstairs with his dinner...he ate the whole thing and was looking for more! Of course I didn't want to bloat his stomach by feeding too much too soon...but I am going to increase his feedings to 3x a day until we get his weight on track.
What a sweet and wonderful boy he is...I so hope that he recovers long enough to enjoy life with us.
DAY 1 - 01/20/2009 Runner's First Night Home
It took a little while for the staff at the SPCA to gather up all of Runner's meds and records (I was very impressed with the staff I worked with...they were so caring and were sure to do their best to educate me before I committed to him.) We left the SPCA about 5:20pm - it was getting dark and we had to fight some left over rush hour traffic.
I had Runner in a small airline crate; I figured he was safer and warmer in there. I put the crate on the passenger seat so he could see me the whole time. He did a lot of panting (stress), but never whined or barked and thank goodness he doesn't get car sick either!
My dear sweet dog-tolerant husband called to check on us and see if we were on our way and offered to set up a "spot" for Runner. Runner has to be kept separated from all of my other dogs...yes, there are 4 other dogs in my house at this time...but only 3 are mine! LOL!
Anyway, Dave (that's the husband) set up a nice 36" crate in our downstairs den with bedding and blankets, covered the crate for a cozy feel, turned on the portable heater to make sure it is warm and set out a nice, fresh water bowl.
I brought Runner in and took him straight downstairs to his new pad. He seemed to like it ok...until I put him in the crate and left. Within 15 minutes we heard woof-woof woof-woof-woof "I'm NOT happy in here! I'm nearly 10 years old and I don't need no stinkin' metal babysitter!" (at least that's what it sounded like).
I waited for him to stop fussing before I went down, and low and behold, he had peed a spot the size of a half dollar in his crate. So I've learned that Runner doesn't talk unless he has something important to say!
He was not interested in eating, but he did drink a good bit of water.
I was able to get his 1st dose of Doxycyline in him because it was a liquid (he's taking this for the upper respiratory issues), but we had no luck on the Clavamox tablets (he is taking this to prevent infection from his dental surgery).
I put him on the sofa with me and I channel surfed and watched some TV (which is so very unusual for me...but what else is there to do when you're sitting with a sick pup?) Runner slept hard for a couple of hours (with the exception of one of his "episodes" that just about gave ME a heart condition).
Dave decided that Runner should "sleep with us" "we can't abandon him down here, he'll be stressed". Well, I don't know that he would be stressed down there, but I did feel better about keeping and eye/ear on him at this stage.
I don't think it was Runner's first time in a human's bed...he knew exactly how to sleep in a bed...he knew how to turn sideways so that his body takes up the most space possible and he also knows how to sleep RIGHT NEXT to your legs or feet when he moves to the bottom...in such a way that you feel guilty if you turn or get up in the middle of the night. Do dogs take classes for that stuff or what?
I had Runner in a small airline crate; I figured he was safer and warmer in there. I put the crate on the passenger seat so he could see me the whole time. He did a lot of panting (stress), but never whined or barked and thank goodness he doesn't get car sick either!
My dear sweet dog-tolerant husband called to check on us and see if we were on our way and offered to set up a "spot" for Runner. Runner has to be kept separated from all of my other dogs...yes, there are 4 other dogs in my house at this time...but only 3 are mine! LOL!
Anyway, Dave (that's the husband) set up a nice 36" crate in our downstairs den with bedding and blankets, covered the crate for a cozy feel, turned on the portable heater to make sure it is warm and set out a nice, fresh water bowl.
I brought Runner in and took him straight downstairs to his new pad. He seemed to like it ok...until I put him in the crate and left. Within 15 minutes we heard woof-woof woof-woof-woof "I'm NOT happy in here! I'm nearly 10 years old and I don't need no stinkin' metal babysitter!" (at least that's what it sounded like).
I waited for him to stop fussing before I went down, and low and behold, he had peed a spot the size of a half dollar in his crate. So I've learned that Runner doesn't talk unless he has something important to say!
He was not interested in eating, but he did drink a good bit of water.
I was able to get his 1st dose of Doxycyline in him because it was a liquid (he's taking this for the upper respiratory issues), but we had no luck on the Clavamox tablets (he is taking this to prevent infection from his dental surgery).
I put him on the sofa with me and I channel surfed and watched some TV (which is so very unusual for me...but what else is there to do when you're sitting with a sick pup?) Runner slept hard for a couple of hours (with the exception of one of his "episodes" that just about gave ME a heart condition).
Dave decided that Runner should "sleep with us" "we can't abandon him down here, he'll be stressed". Well, I don't know that he would be stressed down there, but I did feel better about keeping and eye/ear on him at this stage.
I don't think it was Runner's first time in a human's bed...he knew exactly how to sleep in a bed...he knew how to turn sideways so that his body takes up the most space possible and he also knows how to sleep RIGHT NEXT to your legs or feet when he moves to the bottom...in such a way that you feel guilty if you turn or get up in the middle of the night. Do dogs take classes for that stuff or what?
Introduction to Runner:
The sweet spirited Shih Tzu Mix
I have "a thing" for small fuzzy dogs...I like to take them in and care for those in need...nourish them, train them if needed, help them find their spirit again, and then find a GOOD and FOREVER home for them. Once they go to their forever home, I find another or sometimes they find me.Runner came to an SPCA as a "Stray Relinquish" in December of 2008 (for the 2nd time in less than 2 years). I saw him on their website on January 16th and inquired about him and if he had a prospective home yet. (Toy breeds do not usually fair so well in the shelter environment...actually, it is quite stressful for any breed or size of dog, but some are more resilient than others.) The nice lady at the shelter emailed me back on her next shift and said, "Please rescue this sick baby." At the time of my inquiry, I didn't know he was sick.
We continued with some correspondence so that I could get some more background before committing to taking him in. My dogs are young and the dogs I've fostered have been either young or very healthy seniors. I knew I was biting off a lot, both emotionally and financially. About the time I committed, she told me he was going "down hill" and would let me know what their vet says about it. - Ugh...my heart just sunk.
She contacted me a few hours later and said, "our vet examined him, his heart is really bad, but he wants to give him a chance. Can you rescue him?" - Uhm, that was a no-brainer at this point...I had to try to help him.
I drove to the shelter after work that same day to pick up Runner in hopes that he would have a better chance at recovery in a warm, quiet, and loving home.
As it turns out, Runner has a grade 5 heart murmur, had 11 teeth extracted the week before due to their severe condition (rotten and painful), and then within a couple of days after the surgery, he developed a horrible cough and became lethargic. Needless to say, he wasn't eating well either and is very thin and weak.
The staff at the shelter were so wonderul...they are still emailing me each day to get an update, "How's Runner? Is he eating? Is he still coughing? Please let us know." One of the men had tears in his eyes as he thanked me for taking Runner home...everyone that walked by us thanked me, knew Runner's name and had something kind to say.
I decided to start a blog for those who are interested in his progress and also for myself, to track his progress, and I suppose a little piece of me is hopeful that we will look back at the early entries one day and say "Look how much better you are!"
Runner is one of God's creatures; I am a helper, but it's really all in His hands.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)