Today is our 37 month ampuversary….I feel the need to make monthly posts now that our journey is most likely nearing its end. I don’t say this to be morbid, or fishing for sympathy, but being practical, its probably true. The arthritis is taking it’s toll on my warrior; I can see it happening before my eyes. Last week we started him on the new drug Galliprant which is an NSAID that works a little differently than the usual ones and has been shown in studies not to adversely affect the kidneys or liver. Of course, these studies haven’t been done on dogs already in kidney failure, but we’re hoping for the best. We had to do something to help his mobility, and maybe I’m imagining it, but it seems to be helping.
cooling off on a hot day
It does seem as if the weather has some bearing on how he feels. If its really hot and humid, he doesn’t move around so well. Yesterday was a glorious day in Wisconsin – low humidity, temps in the lower 70’s – and he had a great day. I was on vacation this last week, and we spent every day outside, from morning to evening. There were squirrels to chase (and he did) and neighbor dogs to bark at (and he did). It was the best stay-cation ever.
Always touching me
He still gets acupuncture and chiro adjustments, and for now, IV fluid therapy every 3-4 weeks. I’m really trying my hardest to “be more dog”, and not obsess about the future, but not always succeeding. If I let myself, I picture the “end game” over and over in my head. Then I snap out of it, knowing that I do him a disservice not to live in the now. Because he really IS still enjoying life, IS still engaged, and IS still making me use the laser light to get him inside at night.
morning hugs
I love this dog more than I ever dreamed it was possible to love, and I know he loves me back. That’s where we are today….wishing you all peace and love from the Ehlers’ ranch.
July 25th, 2017 at 2:07 pm
He is SO HANDSOME! I love your pictures. I can see how much you love each other. I know it’s hard to remain in the present. I know that the worry and fear and dread is hard to ignore. It does help to know that I cherished every second I had with Patches while I still had her. In my opinion, you’re doing everything right. There’s nothing I can say to make it easier. Just know that you have friends who care and will always be here for you when you need an ear or a shoulder. Give Nitro a giant hug and kiss for me. And I’m sending some for you as well.
love and hugs,
Debbie
July 23rd, 2017 at 4:31 pm
Wheeeeee! Nitro is still looking GREAT. These pics are fabulous!
I know that when it’s hot and humid outside I don’t move around so great either. But he sure does look happy and so content despite the challenges. Congrats to you both for your ongoing inspirational journey! xoxo
July 19th, 2017 at 5:06 pm
The loooooove!!!! OOOOOOMMMMDDDDD. THE LOOOOOVE!!! Such a beautiful love story!
This is EXACTLY how you enjoy the bliss of each moment!
NITRO WILL ALWAYS BE OUR INSPIRATIONAL WARRIOR!!
Love and hugs
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle and Frankie too!
July 17th, 2017 at 6:29 pm
And he loves you so very much too! And you are doing amazing!!! Happy Ampuversary you warrior, Nitro! Such a celebration and so happy you guys got to spend a week together!
XOXO Much love always!
July 17th, 2017 at 3:28 pm
He is so awesome. Hoppy Ampuversary Nitro. I hope you have many many more buddy. <3 <3 <3 I love each and every post you make about this wonderful Warrior. I know its hard not to think about the end.
Remember he is still with us and celebrate everyday.
Thank you for sharing all of these great pictures with us.
xoxoxox
Michelle & Angel Sassy
July 17th, 2017 at 2:18 pm
I can’t wait to meet Nitro & celebrate his 39th month with him!!!
<3
July 17th, 2017 at 3:42 pm
From your lips to God’s ear….
July 17th, 2017 at 2:17 pm
What glorious pictures of a happy and loving Nitro and Paula too! Fingers crossed the Galliprant does indeed help! One day at a time my friend and live and love each one fully! Happy 37 months Warrior Nitro and Warrior Paula! Great staycation!
July 17th, 2017 at 12:44 pm
Celebrating 37 months with you both! Glad it was a wonderful day and stay-cation.
Lisa
July 17th, 2017 at 11:19 am
It’s so hard to see them having great days, then struggling. I know what it’s like to have in velcro dog, and to get that kind of love. My boy Roc went to the Rainbow Bridge last Friday. This October would have been six years post amputation from Osteo. He came up lame about a month-and-a-half ago. That nasty C came back in a front lamb. He was a rear leg amp. I’ve learned so much about love, diet and the will to live Keep strong Nitro and his Mom, much love!!.