poodle update

[rootofnewt]

I'm not terribly motivated to do anything right now. I have laundry to fold. I should make some food for tomorrow. I have very little appetite, so I have a rather blah headache and my reflux is worse than usual.

I guess it's not all that surprising.

We're declining to do transfusions for Jericho. A blood/plasma transfusion might help him get past the acute phase of kidney failure. Maybe. But we're still facing the fact that he will die of this condition in the next week, month . . .

Instead, we're going to keep him comfortable so long as he's happy with us. He's still not keen on eating and that's no wonder, he's likely nauseated (plus, the whole taste/smell thing is off with the kidney issues). We're somewhat darkly amused by this. I mean, the dog eats poop. Imagine how repulsive food must taste to him if it's worse than poop! He chased Ronan around for rice cake and rice bread just awhile ago. Not the best food for him right now, but hey--he ate it. Tom's out buying liverwurst and some 80/20 ground beef.

We will likely continue with fluids, perhaps. His bloodwork was worse today than two days ago. His demeanor and appearance, however, are much better. Poodles internalize everything, claims the vet. Jericho certainly lives to please, so it pains me to think that he's hiding his discomfort.

I think we will likely be opting for euthanasia within a few days. We're thinking of taking tomorrow and going for a nice car ride into the mountains, he still likes car rides, especially if we're not going to the vet. It depends on how comfortable he is tomorrow. He's comfortable now because he's had IV fluids all day. This morning, he was obviously in pain and stiff.

Comments

[datagoddess.livejournal.com]

You're a good doggy mom. He knows he's loved and safe with his family.

Does Ronan understand much about Jerry condition?

[anmorata.livejournal.com]

I am so sorry, Jos, but I know in my heart of hearts that Jericho knows how deeply he is loved. I wish I could spare you and your family for the pain of what comes next, and it brings tears to my eyes just to say that. My deepest condolences to you and your family.

[mustelidmania.livejournal.com]

I have been in your place with several of my ferrets over the years, it is painful and heartbreaking but sometimes it is the best thing you can do for a four legged family member. I hope he feels up to a car ride tomorrow.

You are good parents, and good doggy parents. He knows how you feel about him, and he loves you back. He also knows that you will do what is best for him because of the love you share.

Call me if you need me.

[scattereddark]

Poor puppy. *Scritches Jerry's head.*

[elnigma.livejournal.com]

Awww.. such a sweet dog. And you guys take good care of him.

[crazypumpkin.livejournal.com]

poor pup
*hugs*

[gremlin44.livejournal.com]

I hope tomorrow is a beautiful, special day. I am so sorry.

*hugs and thoughts*

[junni.livejournal.com]

*lots of gentle hugs for jericho* I'm sorry. :/

[mactavish.livejournal.com]

Poor Jerry, what a horrible thing for all of you. :(

He had a great life with you, and still does. I wish it could be longer.

[98.livejournal.com]

Can you find someone to come to your house and administer the necessary there? The boy would not only have his loved ones around him but the familiar smells of home. Or might that be too traumatic for Ronan?

I never met Jericho but I shall miss him. How hard it must be for you.

[krasota.livejournal.com]

yes, our vet does house calls. i don't know if he cremates, though. Tom wants to scatter ashes in all of jericho's favorite p-mail spots.

Cremation

[(Anonymous)]

Most vets creamate or can arrange it. I like the idea of scattering his ashes in his favorite places.

Love, Mom

SNugs

[allicat40.livejournal.com]

my sister and her husband did this with their dog when she was put down in November.. they plan on having her buried at camp where she went swimming alot..their dog was a lab cross.. and she just loved camp.. my sister did up a shadow box as well and did her footprints.. when she was doing them Sasha turned around and bit her.. the one and only time she only ever did this to my sister.. she cried..she couldn't scold her.. but she'll put the shadow box out during the summer..

[firinel.livejournal.com]

Like someone else said, though I've never met him, I will miss him too. I've really enjoyed all of your posts about him. :(
I'm so sorry but I'm sure he's happy to be home with all those he loves.

Jericho

[scottiemom.livejournal.com]

We love Jericho and all of you very much. Dr. Wisecup told me our pets are lucky that when they grow too sick to carry on, we can end their pain and suffering. It is not easy to do, but it is the final act of love we can do for them. Bailey, I fear, won't be far behind him.

Love, Mom

[stmaybe.livejournal.com]

*hug*

[karenthecroccy.livejournal.com]

:(
I'm sorry ... pets are so hard to say goodbye to.

[hnybny.livejournal.com]

I'm so glad he's home with you guys instead of at the vet. FWIW, pain meds do help increase appetite.

[drcuriosity]

*big hugs for all of you* My thoughts are with you.

*hugs*

[allicat40.livejournal.com]

Sending lots of hugs and snuggles to Jerry lots of love too..

[lcohen]

i'm so sad for all of you.

*hugs lots*

[lightning-rose.livejournal.com]

I'm out of words, so {{{hugs}}}

[absinthea.livejournal.com]

(((((((((hugs))))))))))

[heido.livejournal.com]

oh jos. I'm sorry. Take it easy. Be nice to yourself. Cry when you feel like it.

He gave your family so much happiness. You gave him all the love in the world. Remember the very good times now.

I'm sorry.