Monday 8 November 2021

Analogies

So it all began nearly a year and a half ago when I was observed sometimes to squat, rather than perform my customary balletic leg cocking routine.  Gail wondered why I was peeing like a girl dog. 

Then there was the occasional puddle appearing on the carpet, and Gail started thinking I was reverting to my puppyhood.

A trip to the vet in July 2020, and then another two months later. Blood and urine tests and an ultrasound scan, and afterwards, between the tears, Gail declares I have a ticking time bomb inside my bladder.  

A new routine of tablets wrapped in yummy cheese commences, and over winter I'm almost as good as new, although what formerly came out gushing like a Highland burn in spate has dwindled to a slow and time consuming trickle.

I'm still full of bounce, enjoying my food, my walks, my cuddles.  

Gail is now thinking the time bomb clock might be running slow. But then peeing becomes yet more difficult, accidents are happening again in the house and more tablets are added to the daily regime. 

My bladder action is now likened to a tap with a worn washer. One can still turn it on and off, but between times it drips a little.

Gail searches the internet for "male dog incontinence products" and the belly band is purchased for night time wear. I think of it as my Championship Belt

Peeing and now also pooping increasingly demand acts worthy of a contortionist.

But in all other respects, I'm still going strong.

Gail says I have reached the Cristiano Ronaldo phase of my career*. An analogy which I think suits me rather well.


*Gail says: the reference to Mr Ronaldo in no way is meant to imply that the ageing but still super-fit (and, er, ever so slightly vain) footballer recently re-hired by Manchester United has incontinence problems, rather to draw attention to the fact that dear Bertie retains an amazing level of physical stamina given his advancing years!

14 comments:

  1. What's bit of wee between buddies... I hope his time bomb continues to tick ever slower.

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  2. we are so happy that you are still da fabulous and da bet bouncing Bertie... and we agree there is a reference...or one with da thinker by mr. rodin ;O)

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  3. Hari OM
    Well, that was an analogy I could never have drawn, uneducated as I am on matters of the round ball... however, it does present us with a clear picture of your efforts and adjusted way of life, Bertie lad!!! Here's to that 'injury time' period extending still further. Hugs and wags, YAM-aunty xxx

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  4. Way to go, Bertie!
    That Championship Belt was designed especially for you - you are a Champion!

    Love,
    Inca xx

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  5. Bertie my bouncing buddy!! You continue to hold fast to your routine and Gail continues to be your constant and devoted companion. TLC is a super duper ingredient.
    As for the analogies...you gave me a giggle and
    I send a well done to Gail for this.
    Hugs cecilia

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  6. thank you Bertie for the loud laugh out loud moment. I needed it and the photos are priceless. I am sorry your pipes are starting to drip and am sending paws of power to you and Gail. thank you for the ones you sent to Beau and me

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  7. We like the idea of your belly bands as being your Champion Belt, Bertie. You sure are a champion of nature walks and lots of other things. We hope you continue to reign as a champ.

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  8. We all have changes that go on as we age, but as long as one rolls with it and tries to enjoy every day, who cares what you have to do to make it work! You rock, Bertie!

    Rosie and Redord

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  9. Oh my Bertie...yiu are right, your Gail interrupts much more than your naps!! For a very good cause though!
    xoxo,
    Rosy and the Gang

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  10. I love that you call it your championship belt. You and Gail are amazing, Bertie.

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  11. We are so proud of you. You are amazingly resilient.

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  12. GO Bertie! I'm so impressed with your attitude, and think your Championship belt looks wonderful.

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  13. Hi friend, Ojo here! Cobi leaked pee too when she got older. Isn't it pawesome that our people love us so much that they just deal with it? Also, can you still leave your mark on things, even if it is slow? Much love to you, friend!

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