--updated page 48--Rockee's time too? [Archive]

buttercup132

02-21-2008, 07:35 AM

This is not the year for dogs, although I did predict this would happend this year I didn't know if it actually would.

Rockee just can't seem to get comfortable, she will lay down, get up, pace, lay down, up etc. She can't lay down for more then 30 seconds. Now htis doesn't happen all day but quite often.

All day though if she isn't laying down she paces back and forth.

Other then that I think she's going blind, she snatches treats which she didn't do before.

I certainly don't see the problems Thunder had but sheis very over weight and has artheritis.

Freedom

02-21-2008, 07:42 AM

There are meds for canine arthritis which do help the dog feel more comfortable. Perhaps that would help? Does Rockee seem more comfortable sitting on soft beds than on the floor? Most older dogs will gravitate to a cushiony base.

Prayers for Rockee, and for you and your family.

jennielynn1970

02-21-2008, 04:20 PM

Can you get her to the vet for a visit? Maybe she just needs a dosage adjustment for the arthritis. Good thoughts headed your way....

pitc9

02-22-2008, 11:25 AM

Sending good thoughts and prayes to Rockee.
:(

Is she going to see the vet soon?

Catty1

02-22-2008, 11:30 AM

If she is fed separately, getting some healthy weight loss food from the vet would really help ease her pain as well.

I bet that alone would give her more time, and healthier time at that.

{{{hugs}}}

buttercup132

03-04-2008, 03:28 PM

Were going to the vet today so I'll update when we get back.

Alysser

03-04-2008, 04:10 PM

Alicia, I hope everything is okay with Rockee. I know how hard it is to see them age. I really hope it isn't her time. ((hugs))

buttercup132

03-04-2008, 05:15 PM

First of all I did not like the vet at all.
As soon as he came in the room I don't know I just got a weird vibe from him.

He used all the vet technical terms and assumed us to understand and said she needs a urine test and blood test and didn't even give us the option to say no he just told us and then sent her in the back room. He said she may have kidney problems because she pees ALOT, like Thunder but she doesnt pee herself or inside. I really don't think it was nessicary to have a urine sample because the blood test could tell if she had kidney problems.

He will get the results in tomorrow and will call us.
So nothing has been done but we are changing to a different vet (same clinic though). The vet we want is super nice and not all about the money. She's very down to earth and honest. I really like her as a vet.

WELOVESPUPPIES

03-04-2008, 05:52 PM

I hope that you get good news when the results come in.

Chilli

03-04-2008, 06:03 PM

Fingers crossed that the results come back good!
I hope all is well and she will be around for years to come.
Give her a hug from me, will you? :)

pitc9

03-05-2008, 07:26 AM

Thinking of Rockee.
I hope the new vet can help you out more.

buttercup132

03-05-2008, 02:06 PM

They think she has cushining (sp?) disease.
They want to do a bunch of test and then put her on pills which may help her.
Personally I don't think we should because like with Thunder she is old I don't think we should be stressing her out and putting her through test, then putting her on pills which may or may not help her and make her live for what another year and that's not garunteeing she will be out of pain.
I don't know my parents have to talk with each other.

k9krazee

03-06-2008, 07:54 AM

I wasn't going to reply to your threads like this as I feel they're attention seeking and not focusing on the well being of the dog...but I couldn't resist.

I have an old dog. Shadow is turning twelve in less than a month. She's loosing her hearing, can't see well in the dark, can't get in the car, has a hard time getting up the stairs or getting up on the couch, Trips occasionally when she walks, etc. But I know it is nowhere NEAR her time. She still loves to be around people, occasionally will play outside, loves going for car rides and walks, loves food more than anything and is as happy as ever. Old dogs will have their good days and their bad days. Once the bad days start outweighing the good I would be a little more worried. But you betcha I'll allow the savings to dry before I give up on her.

The bloodwork on an older dog is necessary. They're not just thinking of the money and wanting to rip you off, believe it or not the vet has yours and Rockee's best interest in mind. Hypothetically, if Shadow got tests done and the results showed that she may Cushings disease I would probably put her on the medicine. Just the possiblity of a year or so more with my big girl? I'm so for it! Now I don't know Rockee personally, so I don't really know how much pain she is in now, etc, so I really can't comment on the "right" plan of action is in your case. Is she on glucosamine or anything for her joints? I'm sure that would help her out as well. In my opinion it's our duty to do as much as we can for our old dogs so that they can live comfortably as long as possible.

Anyway, I am thinking of Rockee and only wishing her, and you, the best.

buttercup132

03-06-2008, 02:02 PM

I wasn't going to reply to your threads like this as I feel they're attention seeking and not focusing on the well being of the dog...but I couldn't resist. So when I had to put Thunder down I was trying to get attention? I was looking for advice which is what I'm pretty sure this is for..

believe it or not the vet has yours and Rockee's best interest in mind How can you say that when you see how many people get ripped off by vets? I know people who worl behind the scenes at this vet and most of the vets don't care and want o get as much money as they can.

I know the blood work was nessicary but I didn't think the urine sample was and my boss (a previous vet tech) agreed. She said if there was something wrong they would be able to tell with just a blood test.

They don't want to just put her on pills, they want to do a bunch of test on her too and I'm not putting my dog through that as I'm sure most people wouldn't.

She's turning 14 she doesn't need to be put through that..

pitc9

03-06-2008, 02:10 PM

I pray for the best for Rockee.

Catlady711

03-06-2008, 05:09 PM

How can you say that when you see how many people get ripped off by vets? I know people who worl behind the scenes at this vet and most of the vets don't care and want o get as much money as they can.

I know the blood work was nessicary but I didn't think the urine sample was and my boss (a previous vet tech) agreed. She said if there was something wrong they would be able to tell with just a blood test.

It's not a good idea to make an assumption based on just a few vets and one (or a couple) people you know that work for just a few vets.

I happen to work for a great group of vets and the animal's health really IS the thing they are most concerned with as well as everyone that works at the hospital.

Just because a few bad apples are out there doesn't mean you write off the entire profession.

I mean c'mon if we use your logic on that.....

1) If we (or our animals) break a leg we can't go to a doctor (vet) or ER hospital because you know there are a few that will rip you off. Better that we just let the bone stick out through the leg and heal itself.

2) If our wheel on our car wobbles horribly when we drive we just let it go until it finally breaks, hope we don't die (or kill anyone) in the resulting crash because you know there are mechanics out there that will rip you off.

3) If we need dental work done (or our pets do) it's better to just let the teeth get so bad they're loose and pull them out on our own because we all know there are some dentists (vets) out there that will rip you off.

You just can't go through life generalizing like that, and you can't write off an entire profession based on limited experience with a few limited examples of the profession or a couple biased opinons from a few people that work for said few examples of the profession.

If you're not happy with your current vet then, by all means, go find one you can trust and be happy with, but don't degrade the whole profession based on a few bad apples.

My $.02 worth. You do to suit yourself.

jennielynn1970

03-08-2008, 12:06 AM

If you disagree with the vet, get a 2nd opinion somewhere else.

bckrazy

03-08-2008, 03:15 AM

I'm really sorry to hear that Rockee isn't doing well. I can only imagine how sad/frustrating this if for you and your family. I hope you can find a better Vet... I know you will do the right thing for her, regardless.

lorn

03-08-2008, 09:06 AM

And here we go again.... With your unjust imature remarks..... Are you sure you are a teacher???

You have to have that dig at her dont you.
We just lost thunder recently due to old age problems... How heartless can you be.
Now we have yet again an elderly dog (almost 14) whom is suffering.....
We have had both these dogs since pups, and they have had a good life... Doesnt that prove we love them??????
The Vet we go to has 4 different vetenarians, the one of whom we saw for rocky is the original owner and works maybe twice a week.... We have been told by quite a few people now that he all for the money... Yeah I am sure he does feel for the animals too, he is a vet aferall.
But I would rather have an honest opinion from one of the other vets in the clinic who is souly out there for the well being of our dog.
Rocky is a lab/shepard...There life expectancy is usually 12 yrs on average.
So say I pay out $1000 to get these tests done and 6 months down the road my dog is ill from another old age problem????? Or say I put all this money out and they come to the descision that it isnt cushings, so now they need to test for other things, meaning more money and more stress for Rocky????????
I Want what is best for MY dog.... And if it better to let her go than have her suffer then so be it.
I was heart broken when thnder went and stuggled for a while after.....

I just think some people on here need to learn to grow up and be realistic....
If she were 5 0r 6 then yes for sure we would try more tests, she is younger and not so stressed out and uncomforble.

All I can say Is that I think you are perfetic jenn_librarian, You also had to get the dig in there about schooling too didnt you...
Grow up lady... And leave my Kid, yes still a kid and immature ALONE.

chocolatepuppy

03-08-2008, 09:54 AM

Rockee being 14 years old speaks for itself, that she was loved and cared for. I believe it's one's own decision what to do when things aren't going well for their pet. (I know I had a lot of hard decisions with RB Mandy, who was much younger) buttercup and lorn, you have my support and will be in my thoughts whatever you chose to do. Great bigs hugs to Rockee.

lorn

03-08-2008, 12:43 PM

thanks, I know there are alot of people out there whom have been in this situation and whom understand.... I do also know that others would put there last penny into prolonging there pets life and I repsect that.
Its the nasty spitefull people that Just use this thread to have YET ANOTHER BASH that really irks me......

Catlady711

03-08-2008, 02:41 PM

being 14 years old speaks for itself, that she was loved and cared for.

I do have to dissagree a bit.

Reaching such an advanced age doesn't neccesarily mean either of those things are guaranteed.

I've seen dogs at work reach advanced age and were loved but rarely cared for over the years when they needed it (which makes me doubt the loved part). An uncle of mine had a lab that got up to 15yrs with poor quality food, lots of table scraps, not one single vet visit in his life, looked like crap towards the last few years, thin, could barely walk, hair falling out, but did manage to survive to 15. They loved the dog sure but relatives or not I think they did a crappy job caring for the dog and was glad they never got another dog again.

I've also known many, (too many) animals that were not only loved but cared for well above and beyond duty and yet the animals left this world way too young through no fault of the owners.

Based on those and quite a few other scenarios I've seen, age is not always a determining factor of the care of an animal.

lorn

03-08-2008, 03:31 PM

What exactly are you trying to say Catlady711????????

jennielynn1970

03-08-2008, 05:39 PM

I'm hoping that a 2nd opinion can get garnered from a reputable vet, if your family is not happy with the one you have and you have heard negative things about that facility in general.

No one here wants an animal to suffer. If the quality of life is poor, and they would just be lingering, then I certainly see your point of view. Again... will they just be barely living, or will they have quality to their life.

chocolatepuppy

03-08-2008, 05:41 PM

I do have to dissagree a bit.

Reaching such an advanced age doesn't neccesarily mean either of those things are guaranteed.

I've seen dogs at work reach advanced age and were loved but rarely cared for over the years when they needed it (which makes me doubt the loved part). An uncle of mine had a lab that got up to 15yrs with poor quality food, lots of table scraps, not one single vet visit in his life, looked like crap towards the last few years, thin, could barely walk, hair falling out, but did manage to survive to 15. They loved the dog sure but relatives or not I think they did a crappy job caring for the dog and was glad they never got another dog again.

I've also known many, (too many) animals that were not only loved but cared for well above and beyond duty and yet the animals left this world way too young through no fault of the owners.

Based on those and quite a few other scenarios I've seen, age is not always a determining factor of the care of an animal.

You're exactly right, I have no idea, they could be treating their dog like crap for all I know, silly of me to assume.

Catty1

03-08-2008, 06:40 PM

Hi, lorn.

I think Catlady was speaking from her own experience, that's all.

You now have had two dogs that got to a good age, and that does speak well for the care they got.

There are some exceptions to that rule - as Catlady said, at her work (vet's office) she has seen many old animals who were NOT well cared for. Just that age is not always a guarantee of good care.

And - she has seen many young, loved, and well-cared for animals that die way too young for no reason.

It's just that age all by itself doesn't guarantee anything.

I can understand you being really sensitive about this, with Rockee so sick, and you just lost Thunder so recently. I really think CL was just pointing out some things, not fingers.

{{{{hugs}}}}

buttercup mentioned that Rockee is also very overweight. Did the vet mention about putting her on diet food?

HUGS and I hope you get a good vet on your next visit! :)

Catty1

03-08-2008, 06:41 PM

Hi, lorn.

I think Catlady was speaking from her own experience, that's all.

You now have had two dogs that got to a good age, and that does speak well for the care they got.

There are some exceptions to that rule - as Catlady said, at her work (vet's office) she has seen many old animals who were NOT well cared for. Just that age is not always a guarantee of good care.

And - she has seen many young, loved, and well-cared for animals that die way too young for no reason.

It's just that age all by itself doesn't guarantee anything.

I can understand you being really sensitive about this, with Rockee so sick, and you just lost Thunder so recently. I really think CL was just pointing out some things, not fingers.

{{{{hugs}}}}

buttercup mentioned that Rockee is also very overweight. Did the vet mention about putting her on diet food? She might at least be a bit more comfy if she slimmed down a bit. But check with your vet.

HUGS and I hope you get a good vet on your next visit! :)

lorn

03-08-2008, 07:27 PM

We will be contacting the vet again on Monday, I have been monitoring her water intake like they asked me to do.
Yes Rocky has been overweight for years now, she really and truley doesnt over eat and Barley ever does she get table scraps, because both her and Thunder seemed to not tollerate a treat from the table.... Stomaches wouldnt like it.
She has been this way since she was spayed years ago.
Rock Has troubles getting up and down the stairs she takes it step by step going up and on the way down its almost as though she is hopping down. Funny to watch actually.
She seems to spin in a circle when she gets up from laying down.
And she paces alot and cannot seem to settle for too long... So obviously she is uncomftable.
I am sure either myself or Ali will update you all once we speak again to the vet, I am asking to speak to the same vet we had for Thunder, because she was very compassionate and I found I could understand what she was talking about more. Where as this last one spoke in vet language and I dont know how to explain it, but We just didnt like him.....

Catty1

03-08-2008, 07:37 PM

I can see that...some people are great vets, but just don't know how to translate their stuff into 'owner-talk' - some folks are just not communicators.

I hope you get that vet too.

I'm glad to hear they rarely get table scraps, as it doesn't take much to pack stuff on a critter. But if she is older and doesn't move as much, maybe ask about a sample of Senior kibble, which still has nutrition but will be lower in calories.

I know she has other serious issues...I hope you find an answer. Just ask the vet about weight/food and if it might apply to Rockee's health right now.

{{{hugs}}}

elizabethann

03-08-2008, 08:43 PM

Have you tried giving your dog glucosomene (spelling??)?

That might help. Ask your vet about it.

Good luck and keep us posted.

Catlady711

03-08-2008, 09:16 PM

Hi, lorn.

I think Catlady was speaking from her own experience, that's all.

You now have had two dogs that got to a good age, and that does speak well for the care they got.

There are some exceptions to that rule - as Catlady said, at her work (vet's office) she has seen many old animals who were NOT well cared for. Just that age is not always a guarantee of good care.

And - she has seen many young, loved, and well-cared for animals that die way too young for no reason.

It's just that age all by itself doesn't guarantee anything.

I can understand you being really sensitive about this, with Rockee so sick, and you just lost Thunder so recently. I really think CL was just pointing out some things, not fingers.

Thank you for answering that for me. I think you did a better job of it that I would. lol

bckrazy

03-08-2008, 10:08 PM

Based on those and quite a few other scenarios I've seen, age is not always a determining factor of the care of an animal.

Sure... but on the flipside, there are also people who will do anything to keep their dog alive, when they are simply prolonging the suffering.

My friend's stepmom is a Vet tech. She had a yellow Lab, who began showing signs of hip dyplasia at a young age. Around 8 years old, it got worse. That dog went through 4 hip surgeries in his life... elbow surgeries... and was fed a concoction of pills every day of his life, from 8-12 years old. For over a year before he finally passed, his hair was almost completely gone, he could barely walk, he couldn't get up or down stairs, and he would shake all the time. He went into the Vet for surgeries, what seemed like constantly. He was a heart-breaking sight, but she put countless dollars into that dog, trying to keep him alive.

I think it's ridiculous to make the assumption that Rockee hasn't been well cared for. Duh. This isn't the case of a dog who has rarely seen a Vet, is fed crap, and lives outside. I find it incredibly cruel and condescending to suggest that they are giving up on Rockee... they have cared for her for 14 years! I think they, having owned her for 14 years, might know a little bit more about her and her time to go than you.

chocolatepuppy

03-09-2008, 07:04 AM

I think it's ridiculous to make the assumption that Rockee hasn't been well cared for. Duh. This isn't the case of a dog who has rarely seen a Vet, is fed crap, and lives outside. I find it incredibly cruel and condescending to suggest that they are giving up on Rockee... they have cared for her for 14 years! I think they, having owned her for 14 years, might know a little bit more about her and her time to go than you.

Thank you. Why was 'not being cared for' even brought up in this thread. :confused:

lorn

03-09-2008, 09:30 AM

Thanks for all the support.... :)

dab_20

03-09-2008, 12:04 PM

My prayers for Rockee... I am sorry to hear she is not doing well. We all will be crossing our fingers for her.

All I want to say is sarcasm and immature comments are not at all necessary on this forum. If you have a problem with someone, give them a private message please. This is supposed to be a friendly, supporting place. If you have issues with buttercup, or anyone else for that matter, grow up a little and send them a private message, NICELY explaining whatever issue you have. Or else keep your mouth shut. This isn't to a specific person, just everyone in general.

Catlady711

03-09-2008, 06:00 PM

Muddy4paws

03-09-2008, 06:19 PM

People can be very spiteful. Its quite disappointing on an animal forum, Having a elderly sick animal does make people worry like mad so having this thread as an attention grabber is a lot of crap.

Buttercup obviously is being worried about this so posting it on the forum would relieve some stress. Thats why people share problems, its not always for attention.

Good luck in whatever you decide. In my opinion a dog is better off being put to sleep at an elderly age instead of tests etc. The dog is old and doesn't need the added stress of regular vet visits and stresses. Fair enough if the dog is fully mobile and its not too much of a condition but when joints and bones start to come into the situation then I dont feel its fair to keep them alive.

One of my old customers keep their 18 year old dog alive and Its such a sorry sight, This poor dog is made to have a bath weekly due to incontinence and can barely move without joints popping. I have told her I wont do her dog any more. Hes on 7 pills a day and to me that is no life what soever. He cant see or hear anything.

Sometimes you need to think deeply and decide if you are keeping them alive for youself or for the dogs health.

chocolatepuppy

03-09-2008, 06:20 PM

@ bkcrazy & chocolatepuppy - In case neither of you had noticed when I made my original reply I took Rockee's name out of the equation, just check. Also I thought Catty1 already did a good job of clarifying for me about the general nature of the comment. You may want to go back and read both posts again.

Thanks Catlady, I can read. YOU quoted me and said you disagreed, a bit. Why should you disagree when I was simply being kind to someone and have NO reason to believe they aren't caring for their dog? Perhaps you could start a new thread about what you have learned about people not caring for their dogs.
IMO you were way out of line posting information about people not always caring for their dogs just because they lived to be old, in Rockee's thread. If I had a old, sick dog and you posted that in my thread, I'd be very upset.

K9soul

03-09-2008, 07:03 PM

This thread is about Rockee, therefore the only observations necessary to the thread are those pertaining to Rockee and thoughts about what is best for her. I don't know of many people who would appreciate and find comfort in some clinical and impersonal observations about age versus level of care in a thread that is supposed to be a tender subject about their elderly/ill dog.

I can only say that no one can really tell you when it's "time." Only you can make that determination and what we consider "that time" may be different for each of us. Whatever you decide, cherish each day and each hour you have left with her. I am sure she is a very loved girl.

bckrazy

03-09-2008, 09:33 PM

@ bkcrazy & chocolatepuppy - In case neither of you had noticed when I made my original reply I took Rockee's name out of the equation, just check. Also I thought Catty1 already did a good job of clarifying for me about the general nature of the comment. You may want to go back and read both posts again.

I completely agree with Jess.

Just because you didn't include Rockee's name, doesn't change the fact that it was insensitive and uncalled for, given the context of this thread. Very, very trolly... and not the first time, I've noticed.

Buttercup and Lorn, please don't let rude comments get to you, and please keep us updated on how Rockee is doing. She's definitely in my thoughts.

Alysser

03-09-2008, 09:48 PM

Catlady711

03-09-2008, 10:49 PM

http://petoftheday.com/talk/showthread.php?p=1985290#post1985290

elizabethann

03-10-2008, 07:31 AM

Also, you may want to try water therapy. I just saw something about that the other day. They have it in NH - at a day care/kennel. The dog is put in a big tub of water and it does the dog paddle. I guess it's great therapy work. It may help to work the muscles a bit? I don't know. Just throwing that out there. Good luck.

buttercup132

03-10-2008, 10:18 PM

Good lord I'm gone for the weekend and I come home to my thread about having to put my dog to sleep turned into a bashing, flaming thread :rolleyes:
I guess here goes my reply..

It's not a good idea to make an assumption based on just a few vets and one (or a couple) people you know that work for just a few vets
It's not just a few vets, I hear all the time from people complaining about vets, I know people who work with the whole vet community (as some know I work for a vet who).

If we (or our animals) break a leg we can't go to a doctor (vet) or ER hospital because you know there are a few that will rip you off. Better that we just let the bone stick out through the leg and heal itself I never said I wouldnt take them to the vet because of it, it's hard to find a good vet that your trust in. And actually I know alot of people in the states who don't fo to the ER with broken bones because they dont want to pay (unless it's really severe).

If you disagree with the vet, get a 2nd opinion somewhere else.
I already said I was going to the other vet at the place who I trusted. Good to see your schooling skills doing you well..

Rockee being 14 years old speaks for itself I was going to say the same thing, she's old anyone who puts their dog through that at that age I'm sorry but they are thinking of themselves not the dog..

Jenn please stop appologizing and commenting in my threads.
Your so two faced, you reply in my thread and act like a huge ***** and then the next day or whatever you pm me saying how sorry you are and how you won't do it again yet you keep doing it. Please keep your ********* out of my threads. I bit my tounge when you had to "give up" your new puppy so I expect the same expecially from someone who thinks they are so mature.

Elizabithan thanks for the suggestion.
I think that swimming would make her worse though cause it will hurt her joints and she's not a fan of water either unless she goes in by herself on her own time.

Thank you for those who stuck up for me while I couldn't defend myself and everyone who pmed me.

Jessika

03-10-2008, 11:13 PM

I will first off admit I have not read through the entire thread since I stopped when the posts got not only out of hand but off-topic, but I do have a few comments if you don't mind:

#1. I hope Rockee is feeling better and gets the medicine/treatment he needs

#2. Not all vets are out for money. Notice I say "not all", because I obviously can't speak for them all. Heck I'm only going to school become a vet tech and already a week into classes... if you don't really care about animals, you won't put up with half the stuff we have to learn.. it's long, it's hard, it's expensive, and more importantly... I'm not even studying to become a vet!! Just a tech! Even then vets don't even make that much... I guess unless you owned your own practice, maybe, but working for a clinic... I know starting out I'll only be making about $30k/year. That isn't much AT ALL.

Even if money was of no factor for them, let's say they were in it to "make money", the schooling would immediately turn you off. It's HARD. It isn't easy. Especially for how much I'll be making after I graduate... $30/year... that's what I PAID for schooling! And reminding again, this is just for a TECH, not a full-fledged vet even!

But I Can't speak for everyone obviously, just from my own experiences I can say that if you honestly do not love and care for animals, there is NO WAY anyone would force themselves to learn the material and go to classes. Anyone who didn't have that passion would quit early on, and this is from my experiences after only a week of classes!

I WILL say, however, that some vets are friendlier than others. I've been to vets that were so impersonal they will just walk into the exam room, feel up the dog, fill syringes with Lord knows what, pull liquids out of random places, run random tests, and give random shots, all without ever having said a word to me, explaining what the heck they were doing, OR even asking if it was ok to do those things. Not to mention they never even introduced themselves! But I have also have vets that were so friendly and loving and went above and beyond to make not only myself feel at ease but my dogs, too, and you know it's a hit or miss but I do honestly believe even the "impersonal" vets are still there for the love of the animals, or they would have never completed school much less still be in the business, because no amount of money is worth some of the BS I'm sure they have to deal with on a daily basis.

Also please forgive me for this winded novel, I'm not disagreeing with anyone, I am not trying to cause trouble, I am just trying to give an alternative view point to this to maybe help others understand the other perspective.

And also I took benedryl an hour ago and it's starting to hit me so if some of this rambles or makes no sense... I apologize lol.

Catty1

03-10-2008, 11:39 PM

buttercup132 - I can't remember the timeline here...is Rockee supposed to get some more minor tests soon?

I like what elizabethann said about glucosamine - there is also Omega 3-6 oil for dogs (which I use for my cats!) that can be very helpful.

Glacier also reported what her vet used for Pirate, who is an elderly dog and has bad arthritis:

Jan 24
Anti-inflammatories will help with her back, her hips and her overall comfort level. She's starting on Metacam tonight.

Jan 25
She's outside in the big yard for the first time right now. She's moving really well. Metacam rocks! I'll have more pics soon.

Jan 26
I went to let Kayleigh out of the shop. When I came out, I saw Pirate RUNNING beside Tehya! Not sprinting and only for about 30 feet, but she was RUNNING!! Tail up, husky grin on her face, running!

I hope your vet might try it - it's not a miracle for all dogs, but might be worth a try with Rockee! :)

She also mentioned Cosequin, but Pirate's vet thought Pirate was too arthritic for it. However, you could ask your vet about that.

I hope dear Rockee can be more comfortable. {{{{hugs}}}}

buttercup132

03-12-2008, 01:14 PM

Even though this has gone quite off topic, Rockee is going in on Friday at 6.
The vet called back today and said if it was her dog she would let her go now.
For the testing she would have to have a test, be on meds for a week then repeat that process every week for who knows how long.
Were not doing that to our dog.

dukedogsmom

03-12-2008, 01:17 PM

Sorry to hear about Rockee. I was staying away from all the debate. Duke was 13 1/2 when I had to make that decision. It's a difficult one that I knew was right but it still doesn't make it any easier. I hope Rockee has a peaceful trip to the RB. Give him some gentle hugs from me.

anna_66

03-12-2008, 03:41 PM

Although I haven't posed, I have been keeping up on this thread.

I'm sorry to hear that it's Rockee's time, but I totally understand your decision.
It's a decision that a lot of us have already had to make and I totally stand by you.

Many (((HUGS))) headed your way.

Catty1

03-12-2008, 03:45 PM

BC and lorn...a heartbreaking decision, but the right one.

Give Rockee his favourite treats for a few days - lots of hugs, and please give him hugs and kisses from me.

Prayers and hugs from me to you.

I tried to find an appropriate pic...I didn't find what I wanted, but I hope you enjoy this little face:

http://images.icanhascheezburger.com/imagestore/2008/3/12/th_65119900-d403-41ed-a24d-07194d238a25.jpg

Taz_Zoee

03-12-2008, 04:01 PM

I have not read this entire thread (which sounds like that might be a good thing). But I just got caught up on this last page.
I am so sorry you guys are having to go through this horrible ordeal so soon after Thunder. I understand Rockee is a little older (from what Val said, since I haven't read all posts). We had to make this difficult decision with our 7 year old Cocker, DJ. Although, to me, the decision was not difficult at all. He was in so much pain and couldn't breathe on his own.
Only you and your family can make this heart wrenching decision. And please know I (as well as many others here) support you with that. Its never easy to come to this conclusion, no matter the age of the dog.
Hugs to you and your family.

Alysser

03-12-2008, 04:17 PM

Alicia I totally respect your decision and agree with it. I am so sorry about Rockee..but I know she lived a long happy life with you. ((hugs)) to you, your family, and Rockee.

buttercup132

03-12-2008, 04:18 PM

Thanks for the support, it means alot to have so many other animal lovers stand by our desicion and understand what were going through.

Also thanks for ignoring the rest of the thread, I didn't want to open another one.

Freedom

03-12-2008, 04:28 PM

Oh Alicia, a few days to be with Rockee, take some photos, visit some places, give some treats, deliver hugs and pets. I've been through this 4 times with my cats and 3 times with dogs growing up. It NEVER gets any easier. In a way I was glad to realize that; I worried at first that once I'd been through it, I'd make the choice too quickly. That has NEVER happened.

I often ask my vets what they would do in the situation, as well. It gives good guidance. Sometimes, I ask re this test or that, it is a good question, not just for THIS type of decision.

My thoughts are with you and your family.
Sandie

dab_20

03-12-2008, 04:37 PM

I'm so very sorry to hear about Rockee. Enjoy these last few days with her. It's always harder for us to decide to let a pet go when we know they're ready. (((hugs)))

lorn

03-12-2008, 04:58 PM

I talked to the Dr for quite a while on the phone, she is the one whom we deal with when thunder passed. She had rockys resuts in front of her.
Anyhow after a long convo with her, she said when it comes down to it, if it were her dog she would let her go while she was happy... Not wait untill she starts to pee uncotrollably in the house and feel guilty.
She says Rock has served her time and now its time to let her go peacefully and before she has any suffering.
Phew, here we go again. I know it may seem like it is quick that we are going on Friday... But One I dont want this prolonged and two, Dr. Merry is only in a couple of times a week, (hence why i had to wait till today to talk to her) and she happens to be there on Friday.... So we will all feel more comftable with her.
Wish us luck we will need it. :(

Catty1

03-12-2008, 05:07 PM

{{{{hugs}}}}

chocolatepuppy

03-12-2008, 05:40 PM

Alicia and lorn, I'm sorry you have to go through this again so soon. :( Rockee and Thunder will be reunited and playing like a couple of puppies at the Rainbow Bridge. My thoughts and prayers are with you. {{{hugs}}}

micki76

03-12-2008, 10:47 PM

I don't post much these days, but I wanted to let y'all know I support your decision. Only you know your pet and only you and your vet can make the decision if it's time or not. I truly hate to see a loved one go, but I hate even more to see people allow their pets to linger on in utter misery. I've had family members and friends who waited entirely too long. I've only had to make the decision myself a handful of times, but I let my furbabies go before they're miserable. I'd rather see one of mine go a month too soon rather than even a day too late.

Please try to enjoy your last couple of days together as much as you can.

RobiLee

03-12-2008, 10:52 PM

Just wanted to let you know that I have been following this also and support your decision. It is such a difficult one to make. You and your family are in my thoughts.

{{{HUGS}}}

kallisto4529

03-13-2008, 12:28 AM

My heart just breaks for both of you and your family, I am so very sorry that Rock has to go now too so soon after Thunder. I lost both of my elderly dogs with in two years of each other and I thought that was just torture, I can't even begin to imagine the short time you have had to deal with both of them now. My prayers and my thoughts are with all of you, you have made the right decision for yourselves and most importantly for Rock, who is after all the one that really matters in a situation like this. I think the Dr is completely right to not let it get the point where there is guilt and shame and the feeling that they have not done what they know to do, try to just hold onto all the wonderful loving memories you have and make alot more this week, takes tons of pics and just have as many cuddle moments as you can, trust me you will thank yourself later.

God be with all of you and with Rock during your journey ahead and know that you are supported and are doing what is best for your precious dog.