Hi,
My little guy Taz is a Tibetan Spaniel that I got from a rescue almost 14 years ago. Not sure exactly how old he is, the vet thought he was about 2 when I got him. So he's around 16.
He earned his name by tearing around the house and jumping up to 3 feet in the air. I would often find him on top of the kitchen table when I got home from work. He liked lay on the back of the couch, like a cat. He would dance and prance like crazy when I got home and whenever I would say the word "treat". He liked to throw his treats in the air a few times before devouring them. Reminded me of a trained seal.
He started having problems about 5 years ago. First he started dragging his right front paw and stumbling. Once, after jumping off the couch, his hind legs went completely paralyzed, and I freaked out. He recovered within an hour or so, though and was walking fine. The vet took x-rays which showed degenerated disks in his neck and mid spine and mild arthritis. I started giving him glucosamine, and tried to keep him off the furniture (no small feat - I think he was a cat in a previous life) He did great, though the slight paw dragging continued. Then, he started having episodes where he would fall over, arch his back, howl like a coyote and pass out. He would be in a stupor for a while but then be fine. The vet said it was probably neurological. This happened a few times maybe once every 6 months. Then he started coughing and having trouble breathing about 2 years ago. Then he had a really bad fainting episode where I really thought he was gone. I took him to a new vet, and they did x-rays and told me he had congestive heart failure. So we put him on heart meds and a diuretic, and he had been doing really well. Then he tore his ACL in September 2009. He could hardly walk. The vet was hesitant to recommend surgery because of his age. I used a sling to help him go potty, then I got him a little knee brace, which helped stabilize the knee. It took almost 8 months wearing the brace, but his knee healed up and he walks without a limp. However, he has not been able to run since then.
Over the last few months, it's been harder and harder for him to walk. Sometimes he walks like he is drunk, especially when he first gets up, and has a hard time keeping his balance when he goes poop. He whines when he stands up and lays down. Two weeks ago he started having bad coughing again, and was very lethargic. The vet said to up the dose of diueretic to the maximum, because there is a lot of fluid in his lungs. We also started him on Gabapentin, which is supposed to help with neurological pain. He seemed to be getting around better after a couple of days on it. His breathing improved, but the last few days he's been coughing again, and his appetite has been poor. He pretty much sleeps all the time, but he does still like to walk around and explore, and walk down the street (well about 2 houses down) sniffing everything. My pet sitter told me earlier this week I should think about putting him to sleep. He's been panting and shaking more over the past 2 weeks.
Right now he's laying on the floor by my feet, sleeping soundly and breathing normally, but every once in a while he will whine. I got him to eat tonight. I made a steak with baked sweet potatoes and green beans for my own dinner and shared with him. I also bought some new soft jerky treats from PetSmart and he ate a few. He also ate some tomatoes and cheese for a snack earlier. (he LOVES vegetables).
Taz is the first "forever pet" that I've had as an adult. This is the first time I'm having to make this decision. I actually keep praying that he will go in his sleep so I don't have to do it for him, but he is such a trooper. I have been crying constantly since this possibility has become a reality. If it's this hard to think about it, how hard will it be to actually do it, and deal with it afterwards? I love that little guy so much.
Thanks for listening...
Suzanne
Here is a picture of him from late 2007, before all his health issues, and one of him in 2009 wearing his brace.
Click to view attachment
Click to view attachment
Full Version: How Can I Say Goodbye To My Companion Of 14 Years?
Dear Suzanne,
I am so sorry you are facing this terribly difficult and heart wrenching decision. Having to make the decision to help our beloved pets move beyond their pain is one of the most difficult things we are ever called upon to decide and perform. Clearly the two of you have been through a lot together and you always have his best interest at heart. I wish I could help direct you but only you will know if the pain he’s feeling outweighs the enjoyment he’s getting from his life. I completely understand praying for him to go in his sleep. Very often, we have guilt about prolonging their pain and then when they’re gone, we have guilt, questioning if we helped them pass before it was time. It’s an agonizing position to be in.
Suzanne, all I can say is that as long as the best interest of your beautiful Taz is your focus, you will know when it’s time. And clearly his well being and best interest has always been your focus. One of the wonderful people on this site (Bobbie) is going through the same situation with her dog Trevor. Unfortunately, she has been dealing with family emergencies the past week or two and probably won’t have time to logon or post for a few days. I think she would be one of the best people to offer guidance since she’s going through the same thing right now, on top of all the family illness. Maybe it would help to read through her thread and at least you’ll see some of the same struggle and suggestions given to her??? I am so sorry I don’t have more to offer. I lost my sweet Peggy (The Dog) very suddenly 10 weeks ago today and had to make the decision to end her suffering on-the-fly. I know how difficult it is and the fear and confusion that accompany the situation. I’m not a crier and I cried for more than a week (almost non-stop the first 3 days). It’s a horrible, horrible situation to be in and my heart is breaking for you.
Please know that you will be in my prayers and I hope either your beautiful Taz makes the decision on his own or you receive a clear message from him that he’s ready for your help. Again, I am so very sorry you find yourself in this position. Big cyber-hug to you and please let us know how you and Taz are doing in the coming days.
Please take care of yourself,
Peggy (the human)
P.S. Thank you for sharing the pics of Taz. What a beautiful boy he is!! There’s a lot of personality and love in that sweet little face!
I am so sorry you are facing this terribly difficult and heart wrenching decision. Having to make the decision to help our beloved pets move beyond their pain is one of the most difficult things we are ever called upon to decide and perform. Clearly the two of you have been through a lot together and you always have his best interest at heart. I wish I could help direct you but only you will know if the pain he’s feeling outweighs the enjoyment he’s getting from his life. I completely understand praying for him to go in his sleep. Very often, we have guilt about prolonging their pain and then when they’re gone, we have guilt, questioning if we helped them pass before it was time. It’s an agonizing position to be in.
Suzanne, all I can say is that as long as the best interest of your beautiful Taz is your focus, you will know when it’s time. And clearly his well being and best interest has always been your focus. One of the wonderful people on this site (Bobbie) is going through the same situation with her dog Trevor. Unfortunately, she has been dealing with family emergencies the past week or two and probably won’t have time to logon or post for a few days. I think she would be one of the best people to offer guidance since she’s going through the same thing right now, on top of all the family illness. Maybe it would help to read through her thread and at least you’ll see some of the same struggle and suggestions given to her??? I am so sorry I don’t have more to offer. I lost my sweet Peggy (The Dog) very suddenly 10 weeks ago today and had to make the decision to end her suffering on-the-fly. I know how difficult it is and the fear and confusion that accompany the situation. I’m not a crier and I cried for more than a week (almost non-stop the first 3 days). It’s a horrible, horrible situation to be in and my heart is breaking for you.
Please know that you will be in my prayers and I hope either your beautiful Taz makes the decision on his own or you receive a clear message from him that he’s ready for your help. Again, I am so very sorry you find yourself in this position. Big cyber-hug to you and please let us know how you and Taz are doing in the coming days.
Please take care of yourself,
Peggy (the human)
P.S. Thank you for sharing the pics of Taz. What a beautiful boy he is!! There’s a lot of personality and love in that sweet little face!
Dear Suzanne,
May I first offer my sympathy for what you are having to live through with your adorable and most precious Taz. He certainly looks like a "taz" in your pictures and he's the cutest little guy I've seen in a long while. I also want to thank you, on behalf of thousands of rescued dogs all over the country, for rescueing Taz so many years ago and giving him a wonderful life.
Suzanne, I completely understand your confusion, fears, questions and uncertainty. I am going through the same thing, myself, right now with my ##er Spaniel, Trevor. He is also a rescue, is 12 years old and was diagnosed, shortly after we got him, with severe neurologic problems. We are now to the point where a "quality of life" decision will have to be made in the future. While I knew this would be the case, the reality of it is quite shocking. WE think we're prepared. We're not. We try to take only the dog's (animal's) feelings into consideration at this time. We can't. So we flounder, ask what we should do, all the while trying to make sense out of something so painful and sad that it could quite literally crush our soul and shred our heart.
This is not my first time facing this unimaginable decision. However, I wasn't as "successful" in making "the decision" at the right time. However, I did learn from each situation where we sent our boy(s) to the angels over the Rainbow Bridge. This time I am trying very hard to get it right. My main goal is to keep Trevor as pain free as humanly possible. We've tried Prednisone twice........no good. Currently, Trevor is on Gabapentin (Neurontin) 2 pills and Tramadol 2 pills every 3 hours, round the clock. As I see the need to increase dosages of meds (e.g. Trevor showing me signs of pain), I do it. And I then notify both Trevor's very special and understanding local vet and his Neurologist at U of Penn. Trevor is also on a sedative to help him sleep at night, an antihistamine that helps reduce any anxiety and other meds specific to his neurologic problems. Although this may sound like a LOT of medication, we have reached this point gradually. And I am willing to go to any length to obtain and provide Trevor with anything he needs to control his pain. When this is no longer possible, then I will have to make the hardest, yet most loving, decision in the whole world.
My dear Suzanne, I wish there was an answer to the question you ask so poignantly. Each of us have to find that for ourselves and the answers are varied. But I do know one thing. YOU will know when it's time and you already have in your heart every word you will need to say the Goodbye that Taz will understand. You know Taz better than anyone and he knows you just the same. I'm sure the words flow between you, as does the love. Perhaps if you plan out the "mechanics of Taz's final journey, then you can concentrate solely on the physical and, especially the emotional journey you both will take together. And I just know that you will, when the time comes, give Taz the loving release that he'll need.
Oh, it hurts.....a LOT. You are experiencing anticipatory grief and that is very hard. Focus on your little boy in the here and now. Fill his tummy with whatever he loves, fill his heart with your unending love, and fill your own heart with the knowledge that everything you do is for the good. Taz knows this and now, you'll know this. Go with your heart, it will never fail you or Taz.
Please feel free to share anything you want about little Taz and how both of you are doing. There are many, many people (me included) that are here to support you and hold you up whenever you need it. I will add Taz and you to my prayers and pray that you both get some rest, peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Blessings.............
Bobbie
May I first offer my sympathy for what you are having to live through with your adorable and most precious Taz. He certainly looks like a "taz" in your pictures and he's the cutest little guy I've seen in a long while. I also want to thank you, on behalf of thousands of rescued dogs all over the country, for rescueing Taz so many years ago and giving him a wonderful life.
Suzanne, I completely understand your confusion, fears, questions and uncertainty. I am going through the same thing, myself, right now with my ##er Spaniel, Trevor. He is also a rescue, is 12 years old and was diagnosed, shortly after we got him, with severe neurologic problems. We are now to the point where a "quality of life" decision will have to be made in the future. While I knew this would be the case, the reality of it is quite shocking. WE think we're prepared. We're not. We try to take only the dog's (animal's) feelings into consideration at this time. We can't. So we flounder, ask what we should do, all the while trying to make sense out of something so painful and sad that it could quite literally crush our soul and shred our heart.
This is not my first time facing this unimaginable decision. However, I wasn't as "successful" in making "the decision" at the right time. However, I did learn from each situation where we sent our boy(s) to the angels over the Rainbow Bridge. This time I am trying very hard to get it right. My main goal is to keep Trevor as pain free as humanly possible. We've tried Prednisone twice........no good. Currently, Trevor is on Gabapentin (Neurontin) 2 pills and Tramadol 2 pills every 3 hours, round the clock. As I see the need to increase dosages of meds (e.g. Trevor showing me signs of pain), I do it. And I then notify both Trevor's very special and understanding local vet and his Neurologist at U of Penn. Trevor is also on a sedative to help him sleep at night, an antihistamine that helps reduce any anxiety and other meds specific to his neurologic problems. Although this may sound like a LOT of medication, we have reached this point gradually. And I am willing to go to any length to obtain and provide Trevor with anything he needs to control his pain. When this is no longer possible, then I will have to make the hardest, yet most loving, decision in the whole world.
My dear Suzanne, I wish there was an answer to the question you ask so poignantly. Each of us have to find that for ourselves and the answers are varied. But I do know one thing. YOU will know when it's time and you already have in your heart every word you will need to say the Goodbye that Taz will understand. You know Taz better than anyone and he knows you just the same. I'm sure the words flow between you, as does the love. Perhaps if you plan out the "mechanics of Taz's final journey, then you can concentrate solely on the physical and, especially the emotional journey you both will take together. And I just know that you will, when the time comes, give Taz the loving release that he'll need.
Oh, it hurts.....a LOT. You are experiencing anticipatory grief and that is very hard. Focus on your little boy in the here and now. Fill his tummy with whatever he loves, fill his heart with your unending love, and fill your own heart with the knowledge that everything you do is for the good. Taz knows this and now, you'll know this. Go with your heart, it will never fail you or Taz.
Please feel free to share anything you want about little Taz and how both of you are doing. There are many, many people (me included) that are here to support you and hold you up whenever you need it. I will add Taz and you to my prayers and pray that you both get some rest, peace and comfort in the days ahead.
Blessings.............
Bobbie
Thanks Peggy's Human and Bobbie for your support - this is such a wonderful site. I think I found the right place.
Bobbie, I read your post about Trevor, and yes, it does remind me of Taz's issues with his back and the limb weakness, only obviously Trevor has more going on there. I had Taz on Tramadol for a while after his knee injury, but he doesn't tolerate it well - he hates the taste and then he throws up. Same with an herbal pain med called Vaxamine that I was I was giving him after his knee injury. I've tried every humanly possible way to give him pills - in canned food, cheese, peanut butter, lunch meat, and of course Pill Pockets, which worked for a while, because he used to gulp down his treats, but then suddenly he decided he likes to chew everything, and if he gets a bitter taste he freaks out.
The only way to get him to take any medicine is to have the compounding pharmacy make it into a liquid with flavoring. He takes the heart meds and the Gabapentin ok, but anything bitter, forget it.
Bobbie, I read your post about Trevor, and yes, it does remind me of Taz's issues with his back and the limb weakness, only obviously Trevor has more going on there. I had Taz on Tramadol for a while after his knee injury, but he doesn't tolerate it well - he hates the taste and then he throws up. Same with an herbal pain med called Vaxamine that I was I was giving him after his knee injury. I've tried every humanly possible way to give him pills - in canned food, cheese, peanut butter, lunch meat, and of course Pill Pockets, which worked for a while, because he used to gulp down his treats, but then suddenly he decided he likes to chew everything, and if he gets a bitter taste he freaks out.
The only way to get him to take any medicine is to have the compounding pharmacy make it into a liquid with flavoring. He takes the heart meds and the Gabapentin ok, but anything bitter, forget it.
Hi, Suzanne, thank you so much for sharing your precious Taz with us. I also wish to offer you my sincerest sympathies in this Anticipatory Grief journey you are traveling together. It is different in that we hold onto the hope that "while there's life there's hope" - - hope for a miracle that will let us keep our beloved companion with us just a little while longer - - just one more minute, one more hour, one more day - - one more lifetime. The earthly journey that we share with our beloved companions is NEVER long enough, Suzanne. Unfortunately, their physical bodies are like ours - - they are not designed for immortality on this side of eternity.
And as Peggy and Bobbie have already so compassionately shared with you, there is NO possible way we can ever begin to "prepare" ourselves for the inevitable - - that our precious beloved companion will precede us to the angels. I wish with all my heart there were an easier way through this Anticipatory Grief journey. As Peggy and Bobbie have shared with you, so I wish to affirm their words of encouragement: You are doing everything in your power to help your precious Taz feel comfortable as his earthly journey with you transitions to a different dimension. This time is precious for you both - - so savor every moment - - as I know you already are doing. And I promise you, Suzanne, you WILL have the courage and strength to do what is necessary for your precious Taz - - when /if your precious Taz looks at you - - deeply into your heart and soul - - and lets you know beyond all shadow of a doubt that he is ready to be released from his physical body - - so that his precious Living Spirit can soar heavenward to the angels - - and live forever in your heart and memories.
And please remember you are NEVER alone - - EVER - - not during this transition journey and definitely not after your precious Taz joins the angels. Each of us here do understand what you and your beloved Taz are going through, and we are here for you for as long and as often as you need us. We are here for you, with you, and beside you with every step you and your precious Taz take in your journey.
Suzanne, thank you so much for sharing your pictures of your precious Taz with us. He is a sweetheart, and I absolutely LOVE the brace you got for his leg. This picture is one of MANY you have as proof beyond all shadow of a doubt that you will ALWAYS do what is best for Taz with the deepest love in your heart - - and which you and your Taz will know and feel for all eternity - - for love is not confined to the physical laws of time and space.
Suzanne, please know you and your precious Taz are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how things are going for the both of you whenever possible.
Peace and blessings,
moon_beam
And as Peggy and Bobbie have already so compassionately shared with you, there is NO possible way we can ever begin to "prepare" ourselves for the inevitable - - that our precious beloved companion will precede us to the angels. I wish with all my heart there were an easier way through this Anticipatory Grief journey. As Peggy and Bobbie have shared with you, so I wish to affirm their words of encouragement: You are doing everything in your power to help your precious Taz feel comfortable as his earthly journey with you transitions to a different dimension. This time is precious for you both - - so savor every moment - - as I know you already are doing. And I promise you, Suzanne, you WILL have the courage and strength to do what is necessary for your precious Taz - - when /if your precious Taz looks at you - - deeply into your heart and soul - - and lets you know beyond all shadow of a doubt that he is ready to be released from his physical body - - so that his precious Living Spirit can soar heavenward to the angels - - and live forever in your heart and memories.
And please remember you are NEVER alone - - EVER - - not during this transition journey and definitely not after your precious Taz joins the angels. Each of us here do understand what you and your beloved Taz are going through, and we are here for you for as long and as often as you need us. We are here for you, with you, and beside you with every step you and your precious Taz take in your journey.
Suzanne, thank you so much for sharing your pictures of your precious Taz with us. He is a sweetheart, and I absolutely LOVE the brace you got for his leg. This picture is one of MANY you have as proof beyond all shadow of a doubt that you will ALWAYS do what is best for Taz with the deepest love in your heart - - and which you and your Taz will know and feel for all eternity - - for love is not confined to the physical laws of time and space.
Suzanne, please know you and your precious Taz are in my thoughts and prayers, and look forward to knowing how things are going for the both of you whenever possible.
Peace and blessings,
moon_beam
Hi Suzanne & Taz!
I'm sorry that you're having such a hard time giving Taz his medicines. I'm trying to think how Taz could take additional pain medications. Tramadol is not the only thing out there to help relieve his pain, it's just one of the cheaper drugs, even though it is "regulated" drug now. And I'm sure you've tried placing his pill(s) in the back of his throat and stroking his neck so he swallows the pill.......... At one point, I had to give another of my boys an injection of pain medication because he was also refusing all other meds. It wasn't hard and it never did hurt Rudy. Ask your vet or specialist about what other meds are available for Taz and be persistent. That is one key as well. Sometimes we have to push for what we want. Also, please don't be afraid to exceed (in small increments) the "recommended" dosage of pain medication for Taz. I am WAY beyond any recommended dose for both Tramadol and Gabapentin. And I keep having to increase the doses as Trevor's pain increases. I do not worry about overdosing Trevor either. What a way to pass on! Going to sleep and being out of pain with my human near by? It might not hurt to ask your pharmacist who does your compounding (bless his/her heart) what other medications are effective against dog pain.
I can definitely see that your love for Taz goes beyond all measure. And, believe me, Taz knows that very well. I know that Trevor feels my love in the way he always gets up from a sound sleep when he senses I am back home from wherever; the way his eyes light up when he sees me; the way he puts his head down next to my hand when we lie on the floor together (I do a LOT of that); the way he follows me everywhere; the way I can now wipe off his paws when they are dirty without getting bit and his little bottom is the same way; how he refuses treats from anyone but Stan and I. The list goes on and on. You Taz loves you more than you can ever know, because you are a human and somewhat limited in "dog speak". We all are.
Suzanne, you are doing an extraordinary job of caring and loving Taz and I commend you for that. Plan for the future only so that you and Taz can wallow in the here-and-now together. You will never regret it. Both of you can only benefit from it. People say I live my life around Trevor and they are absolutely right! I wouldn't have it any other way. The true friends (and you will meet many of them here as well) understand and agree. The others I don't have time for.
Have a wonderful afternoon with your little guy (he is so adorable)! You guys are in my every thought and prayer. Please let us know how you are doing. And remember, you are not alone EVER!
Blessings............
Bobbie
I'm sorry that you're having such a hard time giving Taz his medicines. I'm trying to think how Taz could take additional pain medications. Tramadol is not the only thing out there to help relieve his pain, it's just one of the cheaper drugs, even though it is "regulated" drug now. And I'm sure you've tried placing his pill(s) in the back of his throat and stroking his neck so he swallows the pill.......... At one point, I had to give another of my boys an injection of pain medication because he was also refusing all other meds. It wasn't hard and it never did hurt Rudy. Ask your vet or specialist about what other meds are available for Taz and be persistent. That is one key as well. Sometimes we have to push for what we want. Also, please don't be afraid to exceed (in small increments) the "recommended" dosage of pain medication for Taz. I am WAY beyond any recommended dose for both Tramadol and Gabapentin. And I keep having to increase the doses as Trevor's pain increases. I do not worry about overdosing Trevor either. What a way to pass on! Going to sleep and being out of pain with my human near by? It might not hurt to ask your pharmacist who does your compounding (bless his/her heart) what other medications are effective against dog pain.
I can definitely see that your love for Taz goes beyond all measure. And, believe me, Taz knows that very well. I know that Trevor feels my love in the way he always gets up from a sound sleep when he senses I am back home from wherever; the way his eyes light up when he sees me; the way he puts his head down next to my hand when we lie on the floor together (I do a LOT of that); the way he follows me everywhere; the way I can now wipe off his paws when they are dirty without getting bit and his little bottom is the same way; how he refuses treats from anyone but Stan and I. The list goes on and on. You Taz loves you more than you can ever know, because you are a human and somewhat limited in "dog speak". We all are.
Suzanne, you are doing an extraordinary job of caring and loving Taz and I commend you for that. Plan for the future only so that you and Taz can wallow in the here-and-now together. You will never regret it. Both of you can only benefit from it. People say I live my life around Trevor and they are absolutely right! I wouldn't have it any other way. The true friends (and you will meet many of them here as well) understand and agree. The others I don't have time for.
Have a wonderful afternoon with your little guy (he is so adorable)! You guys are in my every thought and prayer. Please let us know how you are doing. And remember, you are not alone EVER!
Blessings............
Bobbie
Bobbie,
Yes, I have tried putting pills in his throat, maybe I just don't know how to do it, but he shakes his head and no matter how far I manage to stick it in he spits it out. And he really does have a violent reaction to the taste of the Tramadol, like I'm trying to poison him! I had them compound it into a liquid and as soon as a drop hits his tongue he goes nuts. And when I did manage to get him to swallow it, he threw up 5 minutes later.
It was 3 weeks ago that I talked to the vet and asked about an alternative pain med, and that is when they prescribed the Gabapentin, since a lot of his pain is due to pinched nerves in his neck and back (I can relate, I have the same problem...) For his arthritis, I have him on a human dose of Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM, and he's been getting Adequan shots for about a year.
I took him to the vet yesterday to get his Adequan shot, after just 3 weeks instead of the usual 4. The vet said I could give him 1 ml of the Lasix in the morning to see if it helps with the coughing, but not to exceed .75 ml the other 3 doses. I gave him a tiny bit more Gabapentin (1.1ML instead of 1) last night. I really don't want to overmedicate him which could cause more problems with his liver and kidneys. His liver values have been high for several years, and they keep going up with all the meds.
He didn't cough this morning and ate all his food, but then he laid down on his mat by his dish and sort of spaced out. He ended up pooping laying down, couldn't get up in time. When that happened, he jumped up and headed to the door, but of course it was too late. Poor little guy, this has happened a few times over the last couple of months. He can't really hold it - he'll usually leave a trail of turds trying to get to the door.
While I was at the vet I also got their estimate for final arrangements. I had a hard time keeping it together just asking them for it. I thought about having him euthanized at home, and geez, they want $200 just for the house call. They also want $200 for cremation! Does that seem right? I think it only cost $400 or so to get my Grandma cremated! It seems like a lot for a 15 lb dog.
Yes, I have tried putting pills in his throat, maybe I just don't know how to do it, but he shakes his head and no matter how far I manage to stick it in he spits it out. And he really does have a violent reaction to the taste of the Tramadol, like I'm trying to poison him! I had them compound it into a liquid and as soon as a drop hits his tongue he goes nuts. And when I did manage to get him to swallow it, he threw up 5 minutes later.
It was 3 weeks ago that I talked to the vet and asked about an alternative pain med, and that is when they prescribed the Gabapentin, since a lot of his pain is due to pinched nerves in his neck and back (I can relate, I have the same problem...) For his arthritis, I have him on a human dose of Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM, and he's been getting Adequan shots for about a year.
I took him to the vet yesterday to get his Adequan shot, after just 3 weeks instead of the usual 4. The vet said I could give him 1 ml of the Lasix in the morning to see if it helps with the coughing, but not to exceed .75 ml the other 3 doses. I gave him a tiny bit more Gabapentin (1.1ML instead of 1) last night. I really don't want to overmedicate him which could cause more problems with his liver and kidneys. His liver values have been high for several years, and they keep going up with all the meds.
He didn't cough this morning and ate all his food, but then he laid down on his mat by his dish and sort of spaced out. He ended up pooping laying down, couldn't get up in time. When that happened, he jumped up and headed to the door, but of course it was too late. Poor little guy, this has happened a few times over the last couple of months. He can't really hold it - he'll usually leave a trail of turds trying to get to the door.
While I was at the vet I also got their estimate for final arrangements. I had a hard time keeping it together just asking them for it. I thought about having him euthanized at home, and geez, they want $200 just for the house call. They also want $200 for cremation! Does that seem right? I think it only cost $400 or so to get my Grandma cremated! It seems like a lot for a 15 lb dog.
Dear Suzanne & Taz,
I'm sorry to hear that Taz had problems today and I can related with you completely. About the Gabapentin (Neurontin): my husband takes it for nerve pain and his Rheumatologist (who is brilliant) said that it is a very safe drug, that dosages can get quite high with no problem. And that must be the case because I am giving Trevor (weight - 36 pounds) 200 mg every 3 hours and I don't see any adverse effects. If the Tramadol bothers Taz as much as it does, I would agree with not forcing him to have it. And I would still ask (a) vet about other pain medications available. I know there are others available, but not their names.
Trevor has had the same problem tiring out after getting a big drink of water and having to lie down right next to his water bowl. He sometimes falls asleep there for upwards of an hour! And he's had pooping problems, too. Usually his involve his back leg weakness and he either ends up lying in it and getting it all over him or stepping in it and tracking it through the house. He trusts me enough now to know that I will never, ever hurt him so Ican take a warm, wet cloth and gently wipe the poop off. He's so embarrassed, too. I tell him he's a very good boy and I love him even more. Trevor also does most of his peeing in the house now. He just cannot hold it in or signal that he has to go potty. We go through around 100+ puppy pads per week. PetSmart loves to see me coming. Our carpets are ruined and we dare not have people over because of the chaos. But I told Trevor, on the day he came to live with us, that I loved him then and would always love him, no matter what. That was the deal then and it still is today.
Has Taz ever taken Rimadyl or it's new equivalent? Did it help? I can't tell you about the in-home euthanization charges off hand because I don't know the time and distance involved for the vet (and sometimes they bring a tech, too), but I do think the total charges are a bit pricey. Our last charge for the veet services at home was $120 in late 2008. We bury our boys in a Humane Society (pravately owned) cemetary that is incredibly peaceful. We currently have 5 dogs and 2 canaries there. Andthey even let you bury two dogs in the same grave! So our Birney & Kelly can be together forever. So I know nothing about cremation. Perhaps others on this site can help you!
Suzanne, you are a wonderful, loving mother who is doing her utmost to keep her little boy as comfortable as possible. That is all you can do. The rest is up to God/Nature/whatever you believe or not. You are doing everything for him and he knows it. That's why he loves you more everyday.
You and little Taz are in my thoughts and prayers, always. Please let us know how both of you are doing!
Blessings.............
Bobbie
I'm sorry to hear that Taz had problems today and I can related with you completely. About the Gabapentin (Neurontin): my husband takes it for nerve pain and his Rheumatologist (who is brilliant) said that it is a very safe drug, that dosages can get quite high with no problem. And that must be the case because I am giving Trevor (weight - 36 pounds) 200 mg every 3 hours and I don't see any adverse effects. If the Tramadol bothers Taz as much as it does, I would agree with not forcing him to have it. And I would still ask (a) vet about other pain medications available. I know there are others available, but not their names.
Trevor has had the same problem tiring out after getting a big drink of water and having to lie down right next to his water bowl. He sometimes falls asleep there for upwards of an hour! And he's had pooping problems, too. Usually his involve his back leg weakness and he either ends up lying in it and getting it all over him or stepping in it and tracking it through the house. He trusts me enough now to know that I will never, ever hurt him so Ican take a warm, wet cloth and gently wipe the poop off. He's so embarrassed, too. I tell him he's a very good boy and I love him even more. Trevor also does most of his peeing in the house now. He just cannot hold it in or signal that he has to go potty. We go through around 100+ puppy pads per week. PetSmart loves to see me coming. Our carpets are ruined and we dare not have people over because of the chaos. But I told Trevor, on the day he came to live with us, that I loved him then and would always love him, no matter what. That was the deal then and it still is today.
Has Taz ever taken Rimadyl or it's new equivalent? Did it help? I can't tell you about the in-home euthanization charges off hand because I don't know the time and distance involved for the vet (and sometimes they bring a tech, too), but I do think the total charges are a bit pricey. Our last charge for the veet services at home was $120 in late 2008. We bury our boys in a Humane Society (pravately owned) cemetary that is incredibly peaceful. We currently have 5 dogs and 2 canaries there. Andthey even let you bury two dogs in the same grave! So our Birney & Kelly can be together forever. So I know nothing about cremation. Perhaps others on this site can help you!
Suzanne, you are a wonderful, loving mother who is doing her utmost to keep her little boy as comfortable as possible. That is all you can do. The rest is up to God/Nature/whatever you believe or not. You are doing everything for him and he knows it. That's why he loves you more everyday.
You and little Taz are in my thoughts and prayers, always. Please let us know how both of you are doing!
Blessings.............
Bobbie
This is a "lo-fi" version of our main content. To view the full version with more information, formatting and images, please click here.