Lexie’s favorite spot in the whole world is serving as a pillow under Matt’s head.
Now that all the new puppy hubbub has settled, one thing has become very clear.
Lexie is failing.
At first I noticed she wasn’t able to completely jump onto the couch. Then she started laying at awkward angles, with her back legs splayed. Today I winced as her hind legs barely supported her body.
When we took her in for her annual shots a couple months ago, Matt and I mentioned we were looking for a second dog. The vet strongly suggested that we not get a puppy. She said Lex was looking great for her 14 years. Still, her body was delicate, and probably not up for puppy play.
There’s also her recent diagnosis of doggie dementia to consider. She’s in the early stages, but starting to show more symptoms. Sometimes I’ll find her staring into a corner; other times she won’t respond when I call her name. I never thought to ask how a puppy could affect this condition.
Somehow the vet’s great advice faded when we found Charlie. He was gentle. She would set a great example for him as he matured. He would inspire a little spunk in the senior Lex.
Now as I watch her struggle, I can’t help but wonder if I hastened her decline. I pray that I am wrong.
I made an appointment with the vet for tomorrow morning. I’m hoping she’ll tell me I am overreacting. That Lex is just tired. That I can’t expect her to always keep pace with a puppy.
Time is not on my side. So all I can do is hope.
Our Furever Family 
I work with people with dementia. I know that being around young people helps them feel young, and happy, I suspect that even if Lex can’t tell you, she feels younger and happier with the puppy around. No matter what else comes from the vet appointment. I’ll keep a good thought for all of you.
Thanks so much, Dearflash. I do know Lex and Charlie are so good for each other. And Lexie is simply getting old. There’s nothing I can do to prevent or change that. Sigh. I appreciate your kind thoughts. 🙂
What is sweet photo of Lexi!
Aww, thanks so much. She normally doesn’t like posing for the camera, so I’m so happy to have that picture.
we hope with you, holding my paws for lexie
Thanks so much!
We hope Lex is ok, you have nothing to feel guilty about.
Thanks so much. At this point the vet says it looks like arthritis in her legs and spine. We may be able to manage this with medication.
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Lexie is beautiful, I’m sure she loves having a pup around x Dogs really don’t live long enough 😦
Sigh. You are so right. Last night lexie took a turn for the worse. I’m hoping to know more about her prognosis tomorrow. Paws crossed.
Thank you for being yyou