I took the boys to the big dog park, with the creek and all sorts of fun stuff, and now Patriot is really really sore. I had to keep him on dog aspirin for a couple days because he seemed to be really hurting. He has a hard time getting up from laying down and limps really noticeably for a few steps when he first gets up. A 30 minute walk is usually enough for him, when last year he could go for an hour no problem. It is so hard to watch him get old.
He has been on joint supplements for a couple years, and now is one a better (more expensive) one. It seemed to be helping him, but obviously he is not ok to go on dog park hikes. I have been working on some strength stuff with him, but haven't seen a lot of improvement, especially now that he is sore.
My plan is to keep him home from walks for a while, do some strengthening stuff with him, but nothing else so he can recover from the dog park adventure. Then he will probably go on separate walks from Hobbs. Hobbs needs the longer, faster walks to stay fit for agility. I am hoping that Patriot will love going out by himself.
He is going to be 10 in May.
3 comments:
Watching our dogs age is so hard, but it is also a very special time. We get to care for them, after years of them entertaining our whims.
I'm sure Patriot will enjoy his special "alone time" with you.
I think you're doing a wonderful job caring for Patriot. I haven't had the experience of having a senior dog yet, but I do have a senior cat and I'm getting a taste of how hard it will be. Best of luck to you and Patriot :) I agree with Sara, I'm sure he'll love having you all to himself!
Hard to put into words - sending love. The years go by so fast. Hope this next transition time is a positive, special time.
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