Friday 14 May 2021

Not doing so great...


Friends, I want you to know how it's going with me.

Well I'm still going, but things aren't so great.

It takes me longer than it used to, to squeeze out those last drops of pee. And that sometimes my front leg shakes a bit with the effort of it. (I'm still taking the Previcox tablets.)

Over the past few months my hearing has deteriorated, and what once was selective deafness is now involuntary. 

Peripheral vision never really was my thing, and it certainly isn't these days.

I do believe I have a touch of arthritis in my right hip joint, but I still trot along on my walks (even quite long ones) happily, if a touch unevenly. Perhaps there's not so much bouncing as once was. And much more stopping to try to pee.

My appetite is just the same as ever, although I did have a bout of 'the runs' earlier this week.  

But I feel a little vulnerable now, and like to spend more time cuddling close to Gail.

PS from Gail: The sad truth is that after several months in which Bertie's bladder cancer symptoms first eased (after being prescribed Previcox) and then stabilised, there's been a marked deterioration very recently. He's stopping ever more frequently on walks, seemingly to try to force out more pee and looking distinctly uncomfortable, and a noticeable amount of  blood has been appearing in his urine from time to time in the last week or so. I am taking Bertie to the vet later today.  I fear it might soon be time for a difficult decision.  

28 comments:

  1. that are not so gret news... but we hope the vet an make it better and he has a solution, what will help ya.... all paws are crossed and we will keep you in our thoughts and we send positive vibes and power

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  2. Oh no. I have love following Bertie's adventures and am saddened to learn of his deteriorating health. Please be positive. Kia kaha (stay strong).

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  3. Hari OM
    Bertie lad, I know that you will be making the most of every minute that you have, you are just that kind of dog. You know I have POTP at full tilt for you, laddie... and for Gail, as she deals with the practical end of your health. Hugs and wags, YAM-aunty xxx

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  4. Oh Bertie, we are so sorry for you and Gail, to hear that you've not been too good lately. We're keeping everything crossed that the vet will be able to give you some different medicine that will work well.

    Love, and all paws crossed,
    Inca xx

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  5. Paws and fingers are crossed for you here, Bertie. Cuddle close. Gail will take good care of you♥

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  6. Dear sweet Berite and your Gail.
    We are deeply to read your health up date.
    Gail I know is a very hard time for you and your beloved companion. You have our love and support. We send our prayers that each and every moment going forward is full of cuddles and I love yous. Hugs and love from across the Pond to you my handsome WFT and you Gail. You have had some quality treks and adventures over the last 9 months.
    Cecilia and Bryan

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  7. We have our paws crossed for you, dear Bertie. Our hope is that you will be as comfortable as you can for however long you have. We are sending hugs to Gail as she helps you navigate this difficult time.

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  8. Oh, poor baby. I hope everything works out okay for everyone. ❤

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  9. We are hoping for the most comfortable outcome. This is a difficult time, and one which we recently faced (as most of us here at Bertie's blog have faced). That doesn't make it easier, but all of our thoughts are with you two.

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  10. Oh Bertie, we are sending you and your momma so very much love.

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  11. Oh, how sad for a first visit to your blog. I'm glad you found mine and thank you for your kind comments. I acquired a new dog this year - or perhaps he acquired me - anyhow, Oscar 'the fastest dog on the beach', is the whippet of my dreams; absolutely love him. Do visit the Bikeshed again and I shall pop by here too.
    PS Like Aberdeen very much - once worked for the Aberdeen Journal on a secondment, not as a writer as it happens, but as a marketing consultant... long time ago.

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  12. prayers now for you and Bertie, my eyes are tearing up, I dread what is coming and I do hope the vet can once again come up with a miracle drug. hugs and love to both of you. so sorry and love you both

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  13. oh noes. Bertie, from one senior puppers to another, I am sendin' lots and lots of AireZens my pal. I hopes there might be somethings the dogtor can do to improve your situation. I'm keepin' my paws crossed real tight!
    Sendin' lots of POTP and {{{hugs}}}
    Kisses,
    Ruby ♥

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  14. We are sending POTP in hopes the Vet can offer some relief for you Bertie...We are full believers in living each day to the fullest, and appreciating every one.

    Hugs to Gail from Mama!

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  15. Oh Bertie, you are quite the trooper. You keep on keeping on. We are going to cross our paws for the vet to have some more magic powers to help you get along a bit better. <<>>

    Woos - Lightning, Misty, and Timber

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  16. Dear furiend Bertie, we continue to keep an eye on you from the pugranch. We do hope the dogtor will have some way to help you feel better
    love and hugs
    Mabel & Hilda

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  17. I am very sorry. We are praying for you our friend. We want you to have many more days. Love you.

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  18. Oh Gail, and Bertie. What sad news. I pray you'll be strong for each other, and know when it's time to say goodbye. Hugs.

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  19. Oh no. Bertie is such a good dog. What a hard thing. Here’s hoping for some good walks together. You’ve been going on some beautiful ones. Take good care.

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  20. We are thinking of you Bertie and Gail, and sending all our love xx

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  21. Those 'special' times for dogs and their owners when love and trust provide certainty and comfort.

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  22. Dear Bertie and Gail, I have read your blog for some time, but I haven't commented until now. I will hold you both close in my heart.

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  23. This is the blog post I hoped I wouldn't have to read, Bertie. You are so fortunate to have Gail looking after you.
    Gail, Purdue University School of Veterinary Medicine has a great deal if information about canine bladder cancer: vet.purdue.edu/pcp/urinary-bladder-cancer-research.php

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    1. Thanks Sheila. My internet research had already led me to the Purdue University work - it does seem to be the most detailed and authoratitive source of information on the treatment of canine bladder cancer.

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  24. Bertie is such a dear. I grew up with a wire fix terrier and she was brilliant and a great companion. Hoping that the decision isn’t needed very soon. Nearly everything about having a dog is wonderful except when the decision has to be made.

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  25. I am sending prayers to you both, hoping that the days ahead are filled with love and good things...and hoping that maybe the vet can help. It is so very hard---your deep caring for each other will help ease the pain of what ever lies ahead.

    Lesley, Rosie and Redford

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  26. So saddened to read this, but it was on the cards. As long as he can enjoy his walks no matter how short, isn’t in pain, and can cuddle, life is worthwhile. I know the stress it puts on you, Gail. Hugs to both of you

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  27. Dear friends, we are sending much love. <3

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