Thursday, August 19, 2004

We can learn from Baron

Baron is our 8 year old black Lab dog. When he first came to us about three years ago he was a huge dog -- about 120 pounds of pure love! He then began to lose his hair big time and he was very lethargic. We took him to the Vet and discovered his thyroid was not working well. So we got him on medication (very inexpensive, thankfully) that turned him into a beautiful, playful, happy dog again almost overnight! While he was feeling "down" before he was diagnosed, he never once "cried" or complained about his condition. He struggled through it and did the best he could.

A few months ago he began to limp from his left rear leg. We suspect, as does the Vet, that he has a mild case of hip dysplacia. Baron's limping has progressively worsen in the last few weeks. Yet, he has never yelped or complained. He greets us with as much love as he always has!

We just found out that we can give Baron aspirin to help with his pain, and there is evidence that a fairly high dose of vitamin C (specifically, Ester-C) can stop or reverse some of the joint damage he is experiencing. So we will try that to help him.

I have learned much from watching Baron's behavior and attitude in the last few weeks. He has shown me great valor and pride and strength, never once looking for pitty or sympathy for his obvious discomfort.

No comments: