Welcome, fellow dog lovers and pet enthusiasts, to SpookyMrsGreen.com! Today, I want to share a personal and, at times, challenging chapter of our lives as we care for our beloved rescue dog—a unique blend of Staffordshire Bull Terrier and Pomeranian.
Over the past six months, we’ve faced unexpected health struggles with our furry friend, leading us to adapt and redefine our lives to ensure his well-being. Read my blog post to hear about Marley and his health challenges, and how we as a family must learn to care for a reactive dog that has a disability.
Unravelling the Mystery
Our journey began in April with mysterious bouts of pain in Marley’s lower back and hind legs. After an initial diagnosis of mild hip dysplasia, it became evident that there was more to the story. Our vet was concerned about the level of pain Marley was experiencing compared to the mild evidence of the condition that showed up in x-rays. She recommended that we put Marley onto a strict diet, reducing his food intake by one third, and keeping up a steady program of daily exercise. This seemed to work well up until November. A recent episode left Marley unable to walk, prompting a visit to the local pet hospital and an MRI scan, revealing a ruptured disc near his spinal column.
The Diagnosis
The MRI results painted a clearer picture—fluid compressing the spinal column, causing severe pain and affecting Marley’s nervous system. The recommended surgery to remove this fluid, unfortunately, comes with a hefty price tag that we, regrettably, cannot afford, even with pet insurance cover. Faced with this challenge, we had to explore alternative options for our dear canine companion.
Respite Care
Taking our vet’s advice to heart, we’ve embarked on a journey of respite care for our dog. This involves at least four weeks of confinement to his crate, with supervised visits to the garden for toileting purposes only. Our once-active and reactive dog must now refrain from running, jumping, climbing, or getting too excited—activities that could worsen his condition and most probably caused it in the first place. I am now seeking activities to relieve boredom for Marley that won’t involve too many treats or encourage him to jump around and get excited, which unfortunately is a natural element of his personality.
The Challenges Ahead
Navigating the rehabilitation process poses unique challenges, especially considering our dog’s reactive nature. Walking, a beloved activity for both Marley and me, will be put on hold for at least a couple of months. The vet has warned that similar issues may arise with other spinal discs, making it crucial for us to establish a new routine that accommodates his condition.
A New Normal
At six years old, our dog is effectively disabled, and our family is committed to providing him with the care and support he needs. No more steep hill climbs on our family walks, as we embrace a new normal that revolves around his well-being and recovery. I am exploring the possibility of using a dog pushchair, so if anyone has suggestions or advice, please share in the comments. Marley weighs around 17kg so it looks like we need to spend a decent amount of money to choose a pushchair that will accommodate him. My immediate challenge is to still do our annual family visit to Talacre Beach in North Wales on New Year’s Day. I’m hoping that we can take Marley with us as usual, but he won’t be able to walk, and he is too heavy to carry for longer than a few minutes, although I’m sure my husband would happily carry him anywhere he needs to go!
Caring for a Rescue Dog
Caring for a rescue dog comes with its joys and challenges, and our recent experiences have reinforced the importance of adaptability and unconditional love. As we navigate this journey of rehabilitation and adjustment, we invite you to join us on SpookyMrsGreen.com for updates, insights, and shared stories of resilience in the face of adversity. Together, let’s celebrate the unwavering spirit of our four-legged friends and the families who stand by their side.
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