Lex prepares for the physical exam. Sadly, she forgot to brush.
After a trip to the vet, we’ve established Lexie is getting old.
To be more specific, she has arthritis in her spine and hind legs, making it difficult for her to get around. When I confessed I was sure I brought it on by adopting an energetic puppy, the vet told me to stop worrying. This had been in the works for some time, and was bound to happen.
I have to remember, my darling Lexie is 14 years old, after all.
It ends up I’m already doing things right. We recently bought dog beds so Lex wouldn’t have to jump up on the couch or in our bed. Immediately, she curled up in the fluffy bed … seemingly relieved that she didn’t have to tax herself to get comfortable. All of this, the vet said, was a step in the right direction.
Lex snoozes in her favorite spot.
The vet prescribed a liquid pain killer/anti-inflammatory, then suggested what amounts to the silver lining in all of this: Lex should eat wet food. This is partly because the pain killer should be eaten on a full stomach, and, well, Lexie is a grazer. I’ve never been able to get her to eat on command. The other reason for the dietary change is because Lex has some weight to gain. Since her life partner Lili died a year ago, she has lost 12 pounds — about a quarter of her weight.
I asked about her dementia, and the vet suggested a medication, but mostly said it would be helpful to reassure Lexie when she’s confused. I can tell the condition is swiftly progressing; my brother and his wife told me upon seeing Lex today that she seemed to look right through them. Sadly, I don’t see this changing.
I asked if Lexie’s overall symptoms were end-of-life indicators. The vet carefully chose her words, but eventually said, yes. They could be. She encouraged me to spend a lot of time with my pup, and periodically evaluate the road we travel.
I’m guessing some days will be better than others.
Our Furever Family 
Hi. Poor girl. Did they give her metacam?
Please don’t feel bad about bringing the puppy home. I know many people who had the same worries, but most of them found the older dog soon got a new lease on life and was perky for years to come.
She’s well loved and knows that, which is huge in the healing process!
Hi goodbear! Yes, they gave metacam. I’m really hopeful that it will help. Lex is loved for sure, most of all by her little brother Charlie. Thanks so much for your kind words!
So sorry to hear this; I’ve been there. Sounds like you are doing things right though.. did you ask if Glucosamine would help her condition in addition to the meds? The sad part of having these little gals and guys is that we don’t get to keep them “forever” as we want to. When my Retriever turned 12 (had to let him go at almost 15 due to spine issues last year), I started looking at his life different and considered anything over 12 as “bonus”. This helped me get through things with a smile on my face (most of the time), as we are SO BLESSED to have had them as long as we did.. not many can say this. Lexie has obviously been loved and cared for and she’s given you her best, now you are giving her your best. It’s a circle. Not all dogs are as blessed as Lexie..! 🙂 I’m sure with your good care, she’ll be here quite a bit longer! 🙂
Dena:
Thanks so much for your beautiful comment. You are so right about anything past 12 being bonus time. I’m so grateful to have this time with her. A few weeks ago the vet started Lexie on Phycox, a dog joint supplement that contains glucosamine. It’s hard to tell if it’s helping yet.
My best,
Jillian
Sorry for Lexie… That’s so hard…. Hope, you will have as much time as possible together
Thanks so much. 🙂
I’m sorry to hear that, but at least you know you are doing all the best you possible can to ensure Lexie lives as comfy as possible.
Thanks so much Doggy. 🙂
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