Kelly_Louise

Thankfully Sasha very rarely poos in public (maybe 5 times in the 2 years she's been with us) and doesn't like doing it... and if I see the inevitable crouch - I try to just tug her along (like I haven't noticed - especially when there is people around). However, if she's persistent - I ALWAYS carry poo bags. Just in case.

It was probably a really yummy pigs ear LOL!!! If Sash has a bone, I don't compete either. I do however, earn a wag of her tail. Although, when it's a work day - Sash is always more excited to see OH. If I get to her first, she is craning her neck to see past me, to see if I've brought OH home with me too. On the weekends/days off though, returning from the loo/shops/laundry is a significant enough event to have her all over me like it's been years. And she follows me around like a shadow... just in case I escape. If I use the toilet at the back of the house, she will follow me around the outside and stand jammed against the sliding door... waiting. If I take too long, I get a knock on the window as a reminder that she IS there, you know. LOL. But she doesn't have seperation anxiety - just loves non work days so she can stick to me like glue and make up for the working days. What did I do with myself before I gained my shadow???

Yes Loraine, it seems they do know... but with Sash it's a little more tricky... cause she's like that with most strangers. Wary, suspicious. I had a friend offer her a drink of water while we were out walking the other day (a friend she has only met twice), and she took a sniff at the water - then looked at him with disdain... like she thought he'd poisoned it or something LOL! I've made plenty of mistakes with Sash, not read the signs etc... but we learn along with them don't we? I can't believe she didn't notice his nails bleeding - I've done that once, and it was like I'd cut a vein or something!! Hard NOT to notice!!! :D BTW - did you read my post about Chloe - currently in a remission and looking hopeful :D Mrs Rusty Bucket - you're right, I was almost at giving up point after trying a few different vets. And it stressed me out to no end... what if she got sick? What would we do then? So I kept on going, even though each experience was (I believe) setting her further back, I had to keep trying. Thankfully, I have lost a little bit of that stress now, like a weight has lifted off my shoulders. At least I know that he wouldn't just abandon her (even if she was difficult) if she needed medical help. Thanks for the encouragement Mita... it's been a long haul with Sash... but I wouldn't have it any other way - she's such a delight, such a character and makes me laugh every single day, she's an awesome dog. She is so worth everything. I have never had such a bond with a dog - and it took alot of work, but it's paid off a thousand fold. I would certainly recommend Dr Warren to anyone. I still love the vets at the Animal Referral Hospital the most, however - I'd love it if I never had to go to see a vet specialist again

Sure I will - it's Dr Warren from the Liverpool Veterinary Hospital... he's really nice, and was really helpful to me. It's not just us that think so either, so doggy people around our area has also recommended him. Our other problem with Sasha is that she doesn't travel well in the car AT ALL (but is getting better) so we had to find someone close to home. Dr Warren and the LVH has ticked all the boxes

Thanks everyone - it's such an awesome feeling that we are making progress in that area. It's something we haven't been able to do until now How was his approach different? Well, first of all he spoke to me about her issues first. I gave him the whole story. He didn't seem phased at all. He was not nervous, scared or hesitant with her at all. He was confident and comfortable himself - although he did all the right things to help soothe her (he was very gentle, he moved slowly and made noises so she knew where he was at all times, he never looked her in the eye, he found where her boundaries were and pushed them ever so gently). He tried to understand her, and actually took the time to try to work with her. The first vet I've been to that has actually wanted to help us to help her through the issues, rather than get it over with and push her out. He never asked us to put the muzzle on her (which I do anyway as it's best to be safe for everyone), where most vets demand it as soon as we walk through the door without even seeing her. Also, he did the needle first, almost as soon as we walked in before she got too worked up, and then spent the rest of the time working with her to earn some of her trust. He did things 'backwards' as he put it. It worked, because at the end she was quite comfortable in lying down in the room, watching what everyone was doing. I've had vets who just don't want to even attempt to touch her or get near her (just give us antibiotics and say 'wait and see'), I've had vets tell me she should go on 'doggy antidepressants' to even out her temperament, I've had vets just want to cover it over with sedatives to get it over with. I've had a vet tell me that if she was to need medical attention, they would use those poles with the ropes on the end to handle her - and that they would have to call me in to give her needles or any care that she needs (basically they would just monitor). What they don't realise, is the Sasha they see is not the Sasha we know and love. She is the most placid, gentle, accepting and patient dog I've ever met... she just has a number of fear issues that we are working on constantly, and when they flare up she does act up and become slightly hysterical and throws herself around - but it's very rare these days, she has calmed down so much. Of course she is going to be petrified at the vet, so many dogs are. But she certainly doesn't need 'antidepressants' or even sedatives.... what she needed was someone who wouldn't automatically write her off because of her size and issues... who wouldn't just give up on her... who would give her a chance by helping her and allowing her to respond. And now we've found him. He was just a genuine and sincere and trusting man... I don't trust vets easily, I'm fairly critical... but I liked him immediately, and even more so when I saw him work with Sasha. Aussielover you're spot on, some people just have 'it'. I wouldn't say they clicked easily, but Sasha learnt to accept him... which, is a massive start we've never seen before. Something to work further on.

Some may know the issues we've had with Sasha and vets. I've had problems finding the right one who will understand her fear issues and work with us. Most don't want a thing to do with her, too much effort. Some are just scared (even though she's never bitten anyone or anything and she's more afraid of them). She does get quite hysterical (it's the only word that I can think of that comes close). So, her vaccs are due. I was recommended a new vet not too far from our house - so I gave him a go. And without a doubt, he is wonderful. Just perfect for Sasha. Just what I've been looking for, someone I feel comfortable with and can trust with my fur baby. For the first time ever, she had vaccinations without a big fuss, she had her TEMP TAKEN and allowed him to gently feel her all over and listen to her heart. It was nothing short of a miracle. No vet has gotten close, or even bothered to try. We have had one give her an antibiotic shot, but he ran past, jabbed her and kept going. By the end of the consult, Sash was lying calmly on the floor - no signs of distress (although she was still on high alert), but she was feeling comfortable. I can't thank this new vet enough for taking the time, and seeing past Sasha's irrationality to see her potential, not just write her off automatically. I couldn't believe it. With a little bit of time and knowledge, he had done what no vet or stranger could do. My life has been made so less stressful to know I can now take her to a vet and she won't totally flip out. I'm SO proud of my girl. She has come so far... we've been preparing her for months for this vet visit, so that she wasn't totally petrified. I like to think the strong bond I have established with her has paid off, along with all the other things we've worked on. She's still not perfect, but we made such massive progress today that i couldn't have asked for more - she's an inspirational dog. To have such fear (she was shaking so hard she could barely stand up when we got there), but to accept what I asked of her, was so fantastic. Anyway, might not sound like much... but it's massive for us. We've had so many issues with vets I'd almost given up. Another of Sasha's issues we are conquering

Let's see if we can take him all the way to the win!!! Come on DOLers, Ginger needs our help Just one click is all it takes! http://wildfireapp.com/website/302/contest...601?order=votes And if you have time to spare a vote for Sashy while you are there, she'd send you big sloppy doggy kisses http://wildfireapp.com/website/302/contest...398?order=votes Thanks so much to everyone who has voted for Mr Ginger Mutz and Sashykins!!!

Awww thank you so much - you guys are awesome!!! I'm ashamed to admit - I'm the worst 'pageant mum' ever. Not that I ever expect Sasha or Chloe to win, I just like showing them off :D I'd dearly love to see Mr Ginger Mutz win though, for the rescue dogs and to help the organisation. But I'd be mighty proud if Sashy won... she's already been published in a magazine (small picture) but it still gives me a thrill. From a dog no one wanted to a star... she's shown 'em :D Thanks again to everyone who has voted, and also to those that have shared it on their FB - that's so lovely of you

Like the pageant mum I am, I love entering Sasha into contests... she never wins, but it's fun anyway! If you have a chance - could you please drop a vote in for her? Just need to click on the link and then press the vote button on the right. That's it!! http://wildfireapp.com/website/302/contests/60907/voteable_entries/9014398?order=recency Sashy says thank you! Oh, and also, can you please vote for Mr Ginger Mutz who is representing Seniors and Silky Rescue org - they could do with all the help they can get and I'm sure the prizes would help them greatly! Plus - he's a cutie http://wildfireapp.com/website/302/contest...601?order=votes Much appreciated!!!

We give Trilostane tablets without gloves - and we were not warned by vet the need for them (but were for other medications). However ensure to wash hands before or after use. If you are worried though - just pop some gloves on.

Well the verdict is in... and Chloe is in 'remission' All her levels are good (except for kidney enzymes which was on the higher end of what is acceptable so will need to watch that) - but everything else is perfect - and Chloe is off her medication!!! The specialist seems to be quite hopeful that this remission will be a decent one... if not for good. We can only hope and pray that is the case Being such an unpredictable disease, no one can say for sure - but all the signs are good!!! I'm so happy for my old baby girl, and think her specialist is the greatest vet ever - can't thank him enough!!! He has taken such good care of her and been so understanding and patient with her (and us). She will still go back for check ups - she has her first one in 3 months time, and if all her levels and bloodwork remain stable - the length of time in between will increase. So good news all round... we really have no expectations anymore with this horrid disease, so to get any kind of good news is very exciting for everyone!!! The only problem now is that she is so used to having her medication that she goes to where it's kept and waits every morning... and looks confused when she doesn't have to have it!!! God love her.

Awwwww, thanks guys... Chloe is feeling the love She will be happy she has some fans out there, who couldn't love her old grey face 12pm tomorrow and we should have the results!!! Woooo!!!

We LOVE Advance

However, there is news. The news is that Chloe has been on a very low dosage (as in, almost nothing) of Trilostane to combat her Cushings disease for over half a year now, with no ill effects. Because of this great result, she had an ACTH stim test and complete blood count done today... and we, as well as her specialist, are very hopeful that she could be, well.... cured. As Cushings has no cure technically, it would always be a 'remission'... but there is high hopes that this might be the final test (hopefully for good). I'm so excited, I just can't wait for the results tomorrow. I must say, wouldn't surprise me in the least... Chloe has always been a battler. So to conquer Cushings also????? She is nearing 13 years old, she is getting greyer, slower, deafer... so if she were to be in an extended remission would mean so much. Her life is a constant cycle of testing every 3 months, medication every day, vet stays etc... to have her free from that (and well) would be just the best thing ever. We have all fingers, toes and paws crossed for good news tomorrow. Regardless though, my old girl has been so well lately (as well as an old arthritic 13 year old dog can be!!) that we are happy anyway... but a remission would just top off a really good year for us all GO CHLOE GO!!!

I think you were spoton Pugmum, since stopping the drops for a couple of days, Chloe's hearing seems to have improved Or maybe she just feels like listening now??

Oh okay... well we were told to use them for another week, as there was still some irritation and redness, so will check her again after they have dried out. I did a bit of a test on her today... and while she has probably lost some hearing, she can still definitel hear. I tested her on things that she only reacts to when I say it, and at normal/lowish tone near her she could hear me. But when we were outside and she was further away, I had to say it louder a second time before she reacted. With the window, I did open it and it was pretty quiet and she didn't react, but when I jiggled the arm and it made a little bit of noise (not overly loud) she did start barking and carrying on like a pork chop as usual I've never really been so happy to see her being pork-choppy!! I still just can't believe she is almost 13 and just doesn't look or behave like an 'old' dog, even with her illnesses and injuries. Maybe no one's told her she's old Goodness I adore her though. I was looking at her in the sunshine today... I remember her as a puppy like it was yesterday... and she still has that devil glint in her eye.

Thanks for the kind words and advice... I guess we're never ready for them getting old. Seems she was just a puppy not long ago... But it's just so coincidental to have happened now along with the ear infection. Regardless of why she has become deafer, we will need to put into place some things so that she doesn't get startled... last thing I want is her poor old heart giving out!!! Yes she takes Sasha's Blend daily, and has Previcox for her bad days - which are still only every now and then. But, for a dog that's had 2 knee operations and has mild elbow dysplasia... I have to say, you'd probably never tell if you saw her. She's more active than my 4 year old dog She's not as agile... but she'd beat any youngun' in a race if she had to!!! She IS old now, but she just doesn't seem like other old dogs (thank goodness). I guess we can take heart from that, and be thankful she is as healthy as possible otherwise.

We were using Dermotic Ear & Skin Suspension for her ear issues. So far have not been able to find any link to it causing deafness - but will keep searching... just in case.

So maybe I should stop the current drops? I will definitely check what's in them... and if it could possibly be the drops - then yes they should definitely warn people. That's shocking, a dog relies so much on it's senses. Was the deafness even a little reversible after you stopped using them? (I'm wishful thinking here...). I too, feel that it's too much of a coincidence. Firstly, Chloe has never had any issues with her ears, nor her hearing (apart from it being selective), and it's happened at the exact same time we have started putting the drops in/ear complaints. I would feel awful if I thought we'd contributed - however, if you don't know it can't be helped. Goodness, Chloe has cost me in excess of $30k, so I know I've done the very best I can for her... but it is awful to think she may have lost one of her senses, and that it could be due to something we've done to try and help her. Thanks for that info - will do some more research.

For the last couple of weeks, Chloe has appeared to have problems with her ears. A vet visit firstly plucked out a fur ball (not surprisingly - she's malting enough for 10 dogs - it's everywhere!!) and an infection. She was given antibiotics and ear drops. After the first 2 weeks using these - she still seemed irritated by her ears. She was taken back, given another dose of antibiotics and more drops. She has finished the second course of antibiotics, and it was recommended to still keep using the drops because one ear was still very slightly irritated (but not infected). She is not shaking her head or holding her ears at weird angles anymore, and doesn't seem to be bothered by them - which is a good sign. The bad news is... she seems to be deaf now. Chloe is going on 13 years old early next year... and has always shown signs of 'selective hearing', but has never appeared to show any other signs of deafness and could hear the rustle of the beef liver bag from miles away. Now... all the things she once used to be OCD about (slamming doors, opening and shutting windows, the neighbours - which as soon as she heard would send her into a barking frenzy), now just doesn't seem to bother her. She doesn't seem to hear anyone coming anymore, and sometimes gets startled and is genuinely surprised. She used to hear my car in the driveway, but doesn't seem to anymore. She's just had her cushings re-tested - all is well. She appears in good health, has the energy of a pup (still demanding to go for 2 walks a day - even with her arthritic old legs), bounces around and is happy... but, it's time to admit... my girl is getting old. I feel so terribly sad. My question, however, is has anyone else had this experience or it happening so quickly? Could it be related to the infection in her ears? Maybe it will improve? Could ear infections damage hearing? Or working the other way, could she have been going deaf and maybe because it was strange she has irritated her ears to the point of infecting them? I guess I'm just hoping that it's not old age catching up on her. Although she has cushings, arthritis, grey face etc - she has never acted old, never seemed old. I don't want to have to face that I'm just that much closer to losing her... Thanks for letting me share.

I can't ever imagine how much - and I don't think I want to. My Sasha vomitted on the floor the other day, right in the middle of the carpet. I found it in the wee hours of the morning, when it was minus zero degrees and was on my hands and knees scrubbing... But you know, there are worse things in life, real tragedies, real heroes. Puts your grumbles into perspective. So I hugged her, and gave her some Manuka Honey to help her feel better and (shamefully) babied her. I am so very pleased that things are moving along for you Jed, that your injuries are starting to heal. My mum (who is not a member of this forum and couldn't use a PC to save her life) asks about you everytime I see her (and little Chi ). Why? Because we are dog people, and dog people are family - regardless how well or how little you know them. Our continued thoughts, prayers and best wishes for all the injuries (physical and emotional) to you and your brave furries. Chloe (the old tart) and Sashy (the goof) send lots of sloppy doggy kisses your way :rolleyes:

Ditto almost everything above. Sitting at table, dinner, watching RBT, I think, I channel 9. Screamed "There's Charce!" then shushed everyone so I could hear it. Explained who Charce was, etc, and felt as proud as punch (and he's not even MY dog! ) Well done Bec. Hugs to Charce! I didn't have time to shush everyone... I was too busy yelling 'Chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarch!!' that I missed most of the actually audio LOL. Have to say, I felt mighty proud too of our star DOL ambassador!!!

Me too, me tooooooooo!!! I was sitting having dinner with OH, watching a bit of TV... and then, this familiar face pops up on my TV and I almost snorted my soup out!!! I start pointing frantically at the TV and say 'OMG that's Chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarch!!! OMG OMG!! Chaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarch!!'. I then had to explain who Charch was. How absolutely exciting!!! Loved it Congrats Bec and the star himself, Charch. What a champ he is!!!

Sigh... I have the same problem. People just have NO idea... why don't they teach their children how to behave around animals? I'm just astounded at their stupidity. I've had children come running, screaming and waving their arms at Sasha (who is not good with strangers, she is very timid and wary). The other day, I was walking about 2 metres away from a family of 3 little kids (about 4/5 years old), minding our own business when the kid jumps at us with his arms up and makes a roaring sound.... lucky we were far enough away that Sasha jumped a little but kept walking... I gave the parents a filthy look and shook my head... BUT THEN we were past them and he came running up BEHIND her and yelled a massive roar and waved his arms around. Poor Sasha tucked her tail and ran to the end of the lead. Honestly, I could have slapped the little turd... and could have seriously slapped the parents who were... get this... LAUGHING!!! So I say 'can't you keep your kids under control and stop them bothering other people... teach him how to behave out in public and around animals'. The idiotic father just HMMPH'd at me and turned away. That kid is a bite statistic just waiting to happen, and when it does, the poor animal will get blamed. Honestly, some people just don't THINK, nor respect other people. No wonder we live in the world we do. I know if I'd have done that when I was young, Mum would have slapped me silly. Once I stuck my finger in my old dogs mouth (while eating a bone) to see how hard she crunched the bone (dumb I know) and when my nail shattered, my Mum told me not to go crying to her cause it was my own stupid fault. And, thank God we grew up like that...

Dogmad, I'm so sorry for the loss of your beloved Sally. She sounds like she was a gorgeous girl, who obviously touched your heart. It's never easy to say goodbye, however, feel happy that she lived a happy and good life in her last years... what a lucky girl to have received so much love from you. RIP and happiness forever beautiful Sally. Big hugs to you Dogmad, because words just aren't enough.