McGill 16-1/2 year old Australian Cattle Dog (McGill has passed)

[Carol G]

Sorry about the length of this...

McGill is my Australian Cattle Dog mix. He is 16-1/2 years old and is an A-typical Cush pup. The A-typical is being controlled with melatonin and flax lignans.

He has arthritis and is on Previcox and Tramadol (3 times a day) plus other supplements for the arthritis (SAMe & Glucosmine/Chondroitin). He gets around okay but moves slowly and we are only able to go for very, very short walks.

Monday night I noticed some discharge from his left eye and that the eye was red (although his eyes have been red a lot). There was still discharge yesterday morning so I took him to the vet. The vet is very sure it is glaucoma and put him on an oral med (methazolamide 50 mg, 3 times a day). He said that he was putting him on a low dose because his kidney values have been somewhat elevated on the past two blood panels. He also did a blood panel to check the kidney values again. Based on what the IM vet says, the concern is if the kidney values go up – they were similar on the last two panels and if they stay the same we are probably okay.

Over the past year and a half, McGill has been a picky eater. I have to rotate between brands/varieties of canned food. He will eat one for awhile and then refuse it (fortunately switching food doesn’t seem to give him poo problems). There have been times when he refuses almost everything.

He started getting picky over the weekend and then yesterday all I could get him to eat in the morning was about half a scrambled egg with low fat cheddar cheese and a couple of dog biscuits. Last night, he refused about three kinds of canned food but finally ate about ½ a 5.5 oz can of A/D, about 1/3 a cup of canned pumpkin and about ½ a can of tuna (no salt added).

This morning very early he threw up (which he sometimes does). He hasn’t thrown up since. But, he would only eat about 1/3 of a 5.5 oz can of A/D and a couple small dog biscuits – refused chicken & rice and tuna. He refused his pills in pill pockets and I had to give them in cheese (this also happens sometimes – it might be because I bought the beef pill pockets instead of the chicken which is what I’ve been using). He had no problem getting his Zuke’s HipAction treat down though.

The trip to the vet yesterday was very traumatic for McGill. He hates being lifted in and out of my truck (because of the arthritis I think). I have to muzzle him to put on his seat belt harness and he still snapped at me. He shook most of the way there and for a while in the waiting room). We had to wait a very long time, first to get into an exam room and then to pay. They didn’t draw enough blood the first time and had to do a second draw. He was really wiped out when we got home. I think the stress for him must be horrible.

I think I will go get some more of the A/D and also get some ground turkey which a friend suggested as being something he might like (I’m a vegetarian so this cooking meat is a real labor of love). The vet suggested giving him hot dogs. I must have looked shocked because he said I could feed him the turkey or chicken ones. I guess at his age maybe that is okay.

I think the real thing that is on my mind is that I’m wondering if he is trying to tell me it is time. I think all I can do now is watch him carefully and see.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[zoesmom]

Hi Carol -

I'm sorry McGill is struggling. I know there's so much to think about logically and then it gets all mixed up with emotions. I have no answer for you. But I guess I'd give it a little while longer if I were you, just to be sure. And so you don't end up second-guessing yourself later. How long is a little while longer, though? That, I don't know either. I hate the stress that they go through at the vet's and I hate when they won't eat and you don't know why. But again, that could just be a passing tummy upset. If it continues, then you would probably want to reconsider. I absolutely know what you're feeling and I wish I had some black and white answers for you. I think it comes down to a combo of gut feeling and common sense. I always hope that I will get a clue from that spark in their eye (or lack of it.) I guess in my own experiences, I tend to err on the side of not overly-prolonging things. Whenever I had any suspicions at all that my furbabies were not feeling it anymore, then I opted to make the hard decision sooner, rather than later. I just can't bear the thought of them suffering for my sake. But that said, I think another week or two might give you the answer you want. Hugs to your gang. Sue/Zoe

[Buffaloe]

Carol,

I sure don't have an answer for you either but it sounds like McGill had a long, tough visit at the vet yesterday. That alone can send them for a loop. Shiloh had a long vet visit with alot of waiting around a couple of weeks ago and she was not herself for a full day afterwards. Plus, it sounds like McGill may have a little upset tummy working. I think you should give him some time and just keep a close eye on him.

Ken

[Carol G]

Thanks Sue & Ken. I do intend to give it some time and watch him. Thanks for the input on Shiloh's past vet experience. I think the vet has definitely knocked him for a loop.

I did hear back from the vet on the blood work. The kidney values are just slightly worse than last time -- so that's pretty good news. His calcium level was also elevated and the vet indicated that can indicate cancer as well as come from other causes. Again, it is a wait and see thing. They are sending the lab results to the IM vet and hopefully he will review and call me -- if not I'll call him.

I think the thing now is to get him to eat and that means finding something he likes -- not a small challenge.

Again, thanks,

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[gpgscott]

Carol,

I have been through a number of these episodes with Moria and am having one now.

She will eat freely from my hand but does not want to eat from the bowl unless enticed with a treat and then only until the treat is gone.

She has recently gone through another bout of poor mobility which is getting better with an increased dose of the daily Rimidyl.

The boiled egg is a good thing, boiled chicken is also. I really think it is a matter of focus. A dog I think is in the now, you and I distribute our inititive.

Sorry it is bad right now and I hope with your coaxing and treating it gets better soon.

Scott

[Carol G]

Thanks Scott. I've been hand feeding him off and on (mostly on) for the past year and a half. However, he does really like to be hand fed and it is something I've had to do with him occasionally as long as he has been with me.

Asking to be hand fed was McGill's first sentence. A number of years ago, I'd been hand feeding him but was just setting on the floor by his dish hoping he would eat from the dish. He licked my hand then went over and pawed at his dish.

I'm going out now to get some more A/D, ground turkey and whatever else I can find.

McGill has been pretty lethargic today, mostly sleeping. But, often he perks up in the evening. So, here's hoping.

Thanks,

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Carol,

I'm sorry that you're feeling you must contemplate "the decision". I can't help in that department... it looks to me that he's giving you mixed messages.

Hope he perks up;)!

-Susy

[StarDeb55]

Carol, what about the Primal? Harley is still eating it like a fiend. My vet wasn't thrilled about a raw diet, but I just shrugged & said he's eating & that's what counts.

Debbie

[Carol G]

Thanks Susy & Deb.

I cooked some plain pre-formed Jennie-O turkey burgers (baked them) and gave him 3/4 of one plus about 1/3 cup of rice. He ate almost all -- I'd say 95%. So I'm very relieved. I also bought some Deli Fresh, Fresh Bites at Petco to try -- cooked chicken & vegies that are vacuum packed and in the refrigerated section. I will try that maybe tomorrow.

Deb, I am still thinking about the Primal. I didn't even ask the vet about it.

McGill seems a little less lethargic this evening.

He is still just a little unsteady on his feet at times. I'm hoping that is carry over from the standing and stress at the vet.

Thanks everyone for the support, it really helps.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Carol,

Have been reading along and wishing you and McGill the best. I can tell you that us old folks don't handle stress of any kind very well, especially those of us who already have medical conditions. All those extra hormones flooding the system can be really rough!

I can just imagine some giant, even a loving caring giant, coming along and making me go somewhere unpleasant against my will. Too small and too weak compared to the giant to escape, no amount of wiggling or squirming on my part would be effective. And I WOULD wiggle and squirm! A LOT!!! :eek: Once the giant released me, I would be exhausted, both physically and mentally, wanting nothing but to be left alone. So give McGill some time to recoup, let him recover at his own speed, and keep loving him as only we giants can.

As for the diet, feed him anything he will eat. Get creative! Our babies can eat just about everything we do and most find our food much more enjoyable than their feed. :D Vary the protein source, provide good fats like cooked chicken skin, throw in some carbs like sweet potatoes and acorn squash and maybe he will show some more interest in food. Keep in mind the NutriCal, too. It will provide all the vitamins and minerals he needs if he isn't eating well and most pups love the taste.

How long do you keep trying? As long as McGill is trying. Here are a couple of links on the subject that might provide a guideline of sorts for you and McGill.

http://www.specialneedspets.org/euthanasia.htm

http://dogtime.com/when-to-say-good-bye.html

I am glad to hear he is a bit more alert and eating more! :) I hope it continues.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Carol G]

Thanks Leslie. You are right about the vet. I often wonder what they must think about vet visits -- it must seem like some version of being abducted by aliens.

I hadn't thought of the Nutrical. That is a great idea. And thanks for the links. I need all the input I can get at this time. My vet isn't providing much help on that.

McGill seems a little better energy-wise this morning although still a little woobly at times but again I think the vet visits really play havoc with his arthritis.

However, he did throw up again early this morning -- yellow bile. I'm starting to wonder if the new glaucoma med is making him queasy. I will call the vet as soon as they open. Maybe there is something he can give him for that or maybe this will lessen with time on the drug. I don't know that there are any alternatives to the drug.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat and Winnie (always)

[Squirt's Mom]

However, he did throw up again early this morning -- yellow bile. I'm starting to wonder if the new glaucoma med is making him queasy.

Hi Carol,

Does McGill eat anything before going to bed? If not, that may be the reason for the morning upchuck. A little treat at bedtime might help, especially if he has meds to take at nite. Just a thought...:)

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Carol G]

Thanks Leslie.

He takes the new med at bedtime (along with the Tramadol which he has been taking at bedtime for a couple months). Last night I did give him a little boiled chicken but it was less than a tablespoon full -- maybe try to get him to eat a little more.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Carol,

I'm so sorry that McGill is not feeling/doing well. I looked up the Methazolamide and sure enough, nausea and vomiting are amongst the less serious side effects of the drug.


Other less serious side effects that may occur include decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, confusion, increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight, difficulty controlling blood sugar, hearing or vision problems. Continue to give the medication and contact your veterinarian.

Here's a link to all the information:

http://www.1800petmeds.com/Methazolamide-prod10174.html

I know the last thing you want to do is take McGill for another vet visit so I'm going to give you some input regarding his eye that you can keep on file for future reference.

We take our furkids to the same specialty clinic but see a different IMS. I don't take Munchie to the eye doc there but his own doggie ophthalmologist in Upland gave the eye specialist at our clinic two thumbs up and highly recommended him. This is just my personal experience, however, I had less than satisfactory experiences (5 different GP vets) with regards to Munchie's eyes. He originally had a glaucoma attack. I got a referral to his current ophthalmologist and I've never looked back.

Hope McGill is feeling a little better today....and you too. :D

Louise

[Carol G]

Thanks Louise! McGill appears to have several of the side effects: decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, confusion.

I called the vet and he said to stop the methazolamide. He also said that McGill is in kidney failure. I've got a call in to the IM vet because this is confusing. The substitute vet said the kidney values were slightly higher than last time. The IM wasn't particularly worried about the elevated kidney values last time but thought we needed to watch them so I'm not sure what is going on.

McGill hasn't wanted to eat today. I've gotten him to eat a few small pieces of lowfat cheddar cheese, and maybe 1/3 of oz of lowfat string cheese plus at least 1/4 cup of boiled chicken. He also ate a couple of treats. He has been drinking some -- about 8 oz (I measured). The only pill I got down him was the SAMe and melatonin. I'm holding off on the Previcox but I'll try to get the tramadol down him if I can get him to eat a little dinner.

He has been sleeping most of the day but did go out 3 times to tinkle. I'm hoping that maybe all this is from the methazolamide. The last time I gave it to him was about 11:30 last night but I don't know how long it takes to get out of the system.

I'm not sure I'm going to hear from the IM today and then he isn't back in his office until Monday. What a day.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie

[Carol G]

McGill is greatly improved today. He is more allert, eating a little better -- still really picky but more like picky normal. I couldn't get him to eat any pumpkin but he ate about 1/2 cup of boiled chicken. He wouldn't take his pills in Pill Pockets but did take them in cheese. He is walking pretty normally for him -- not as unsteady on his feet.

Still waiting to hear from the IM vet.

Thanks for all the support.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[zoesmom]

That-ta boy, McGill - Hope you keep feeling better and better each day! We are all behind you. Sue/Zoe

[gpgscott]

Good going Carol and a bit atta boy from me as well to McGill.

Scott

[Carol G]

Thanks Sue & Scott. I will relay the messages to McGill.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[Carol G]

I spoke with the IM vet and he did not seem extremely concerned about the kidney values. He suggested a couple of other tests that he should have -- blood pressure, urinalysis and some more specific test on the calcium level. He also suggested putting him on a kidney diet (mission impossible the way he is eating). He felt that I should leave him on Previcox as McGill needs it for pain control.

But he did say that unless my vet checked his eye pressure (which he didn't) he couldn't really diagnose it as glaucoma and that I should have him seen by a specialist. So, I will do that the first of next week.

I really hate to take him to the vet again but I don't see any alternative.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[AlisonandMia]

Here's a link to some good info re kidney disease - and in particular dietary advice Seems that those unpalatable (certainly from McGill's point of view) prescription kidney diets aren't necessarily necessary (:p) and that you can home cook within the medical limitations without sacrificing palatability.

http://www.dogaware.com/kidney.html

Alison

[StarDeb55]

Carol, I know that no self-respecting dog will usually touch a renal formula dog food as they can be some of the nastiest stuff on earth. I did want to let you know that Chewy was on the Royal Canin Urinary SD kibble for about 3 months, & I never had a problem with him not eating. Of course, this isn't a renal formula food, but I was thinking if this formula was reasonably decent, maybe the renal formula might be ok, too. The other thing to keep in mind is that Chewy loves to eat, no questions asked. He is a happy boy as long as he gets "2 squares" a day. Anyway, here's the link to the Royal Canin renal formula, looks like they make 2 types, low protein, & moderate protein. One other thing, I had a Lhasa a number of years ago who needed to be on a renal formula food. My Mom & I were trying to home cook for her, & using chicken as the main source of protein since that's what she liked the best. Our vet has a fit as he told us that chicken is really bad for kidney problems, he wanted us using beef. I don't know if that is still the thinking.

http://www.royalcanin.us/products/productdetail.aspx?ID=82

Debbie

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Carol,

They were carrying Royal Canin Rx diets at our mutual specialty clinic as Munch was on one of them last July, so imagine they still carry them.

Louise

[Carol G]

Thanks Alison, Debbie & Louise.

Both those links are very helpful. I have been feeding him chicken -- it was all I could get him to eat. But maybe his appetite will pick up.

I will try the Royal Canin. The web site describes it as "palatable" so maybe...

I'll also look into what I can cook for him. His main issue these days (or at least previous to the Rx upset) seems to be with variety. He just tires of things quickly.

Thanks for the input. Now I'm going to try to get him to eat dinner -- wish me luck.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[AlisonandMia]

I'm wondering if the concern about chicken came from the fact that a lot of chicken-based preparations probably contain bone and that when raw chicken is fed to pets it is often "bony" ie necks, wings. Bone, you would think, could be bad in a kidney diet because bone contains so much phosphorus. Looking up some of the info linked to on the Dogaware site chicken meat doesn't look like it is generally any higher in phosphorus than any other muscle meat, including beef.

Protein used to be believed to be the main "baddy" when it came to renal failure whereas these days keeping phosphorous low is the aim. (The protein thing was based on some research in rodents where protein really does have some real impact on kidney function (rats are weird in that regard) - the results of that were extrapolated across to other species (humans, dogs, cats) and really shouldn't have been - the belief that protein is the issue does seem to die hard and it still pops up from time to time). However (I hope I'm getting this bit right) to add to the confusion re protein levels in renal diets, it does seem to turn out that to keep phosphorous as low as it can need to be, that you do have to actually reduce the protein and also that even simply reducing the protein in the diet will reduce phosphorous as a "side effect"; so moderate protein diets are still recommended and needed when a dog (or person) is in renal failure for this reason.

Alison

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Carol,

I have to agree with the thoughts here about the prescription feeds...UCK! The few times I've had to use one, my babies looked at me as if to say, "You got to be kidding! I'm supposed to eat that?!?" Nearly made me sick just opening the can! :eek:

As for beef VS chicken...I would have to do some research on that but I'm not sure why the vet would have said that. All animal protein sources contain higher levels of sulfur-containing amino acids and phosphorus, but I'm not sure if beef has less, or not. Most of the kidney diets I have looked at use more plant based proteins along with egg, if tolerated, and depending on the stage. But, I'm no expert for sure.

I hope the med was the reason for his lack of interest in food and that he will eat more now and regain some of his strength.

Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Carol G]

Thanks Alison & Leslie.

I did get him to eat a good amount of Natural Balance Turkey Roll last night. I don't like feeding that to him because it has a lot of salt and sure enough he drank about 10 oz more water than usual. But, he it will eat it. This morning I got him to eat about 1/4-1/3 cup of boiled chicken and about the same amount of baked ground turkey. He seemed like he wanted more so I mixed the ground turkey with rice and he wouldn't touch it. I'm worried about just giving him meat at this point but he won't eat anything else. I did get him to eat 3 small dog biscuits and those are mostly grain. He seems a little less lethargic today. I will try cooking some brocolli for him. How bad would it be to put a little canola oil margarine on it? I think that would help to get him to eat it. I will also buy more pumpkin (he prefers from a freshly opened can).

I have an appointment Monday afternoon with the opthamologist vet and the IM. I think the discharge from his eye is a little worse. It certainly isn't better. If it gets worse, I can take him to the emergency clinic at the speciality hospital.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[Carol G]

I took McGill to the ophthalmologist vet and the IM vet today.

He does not have glaucoma. He has calcium deposits in his left eye which has caused an ulcer in the cornea. I have to give him two different eye drops and an eye ointment plus he has to wear an Elizabethan collar. Hopefully I can get the eye drops and ointment in and they will work otherwise it is surgery and I fear at his age (16-3/4) that isn't a very good option.

The IM vet wanted to do three follow-up tests relative to his rising kidney values -- a calcium blood test (something about ionized calcium level), urinalysis and blood pressure. The calcium blood test was okay and the BP was good -- will hear on the urinalysis tomorrow.

I hope I can get those drops and eye ointment in without bloodshed (mine). I worry about him having to wear the Elizabethan collar and hope it isn’t too bad for him. I know they get used to them but at his age, he isn’t as good at getting used to stuff.

He still isn't eating very well -- about all I can get him to eat is ground turkey and pumpkin. But he sure did gobble those up at dinner tonight.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Carol,

It's a relief to read that the eye specialist confirmed McGill does not have glaucoma. From the symptoms you had described I thought perhaps he did not. Have you considered getting one of those soft Elizabethan collars for him? Somebody on the forum got one recently for their dog and it may have been Barney's Mom Cheryl but I'm not sure.

Good news about the test results so far. I'll have to take a peek later for the urinalysis. I've got my fingers crossed that McGill doesn't have a kidney issue either.

Hope the drops and ointment won't be too much of a challenge and that they'll take care of the eye problem. I'm glad that he's gobbling up the turkey and pumpkin too. At least he's getting some nourishment down him so he can regain his strength. That glaucoma medicine was really hard on the poor guy. :( I'm glad he's feeling and doing better!

Louise

[Carol G]

Thanks Louise.

I can't get the eye meds in. He fights me too much and snaps. I'm afraid that I'm going to further injure the eye and/or get bitten.

I think it needs to be done by a vet tech or something. Taking him to the vet three times a day won't work as he gets extremely upset in the car and hates to be lifted in and out of the car. I'm checking into having him boarded at the VCA Clinic so they can do the meds. I hate to do this but I don't see that I have any other choice. Hopefully they won't charge me too much for this. I really don't know what else to do.

Carol

[Carol G]

Change of plans. I talked to the eye doc's tech and they think boarding him would be too stressful. So, they are ordering the ointment (which is the most critical) in a drop form. They want me to leave the cone on all the time and try to get the drops in his eye 2-3 times a day aiming at the eye but keeping out of biting range (top of the cone).

He is really stressed. He's been sleeping all day. These vet visits really knock him for a loop.

I'm also so stressed. I want to do everything I can for him but sometimes I question if I am really doing what is best for him.

From the beginning, McGill has been a challenging dog and that has not changed.

Carol, McGill, Atty Cat & Winnie (always)

[Wylie's Mom]

Hi Carol,

My former vet showed me how to put drops in Wylie's eyes... I don't think this method would work with a hard cone on or if he struggles or bites...but here goes:

have him sit; with left hand under his chin, gently point his muzzle/nose upward; hold eye drops (pointing down) between index finger and thumb of right hand (in squeeze position), while keeping the dropper aimed above the eye, use the unused fingers of right hand to pull back skin above the eye to keep the eye pryed open; and then squeeze the drops into the eye.

(its much easier to show you how to do it than explain it in writing)

At least with Wylie, there's something about getting his muzzle pointed upward that gives me better control.

-Susy

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Carol,

Would the eye doc agree to the cone coming off temporarily along with a soft muzzle being put on while the meds are being administered to McGill's eye....and is there a chance that this might be more workable??? I know it probably wouldn't be easy but I'm just trying to think of something that might work for you and this is all I can think of at the moment.

Munch has been known to "snap at the hand that feeds him" - literally, and although he hates the soft muzzle with a passion, he submits when I put it on him. Had to show him I was top dog a couple of times but he learned pretty fast and doesn't need the muzzle anymore (except for the dreaded tail area :( )

Good luck!!

Louise

[Carol G]

Thanks Susy & Louise.

He tried to bite me when I took the cone off and was putting the muzzle on. Tonight I tried to get an eye drop in his eye while he was wearing the cone (just aiming above the cone). He tried to bite me then and each time I touched the cone after that for awhile. His reaction seems to be escalating.

The eye doc's tech said that he would have to have eye drops the rest of his life.

I'm getting very close to a decision to say goodbye. It took me 1/2 an hour or more to get his pills down him this morning. I'm running out of options for getting his pills in him. About the only thing he will eat is ground turkey. Tonight he had major diarrhea.

Over the past couple of years he has become less and less touchable. He will try to bite if touched anywhere on his face, his legs, feet, etc. About the only place I can touch him is the top of his head or the top of his rump.

I really think he is in too much discomfort now and I should let go.

Perhaps I will change my mind in the morning but I really don't see any choice.

Carol

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Hi Carol,

I'm sorry that you're in such a tough place regarding McGill. You know him better than anyone else and you will know in your heart if he's telling you it's time. Just wanted you to know that I support you in whatever decision you make and I'm here for you.

Louise

[BestBuddy]

Hi Carol,

I have no magic suggestions, I wish I did. I do hope things settle down and you are able to do the eye drops and other meds. I know you will do what is best for McGill.

Jenny

[Roxee's Dad]

Hi Carol,
I am sorry for the situation you are in with McGill.

I had a Lhasa with all kinds of medical problems, he startedout as our foster and his name was Bailey. He was very similiar to McGill in that he always wanted to bite when we touched him or tried to put eye drops in his eys. My wife and I have the scars to prove it. (Love had to be on his terms):) Our vet nick named him "Pirahna Lhasa"

What I learned to do was put my left thumb under his collar, behind his head. From front to back.

Swung my hand in a fist position with the thumb under the collar to under his chin with my hand in a fist position. He couldn't reach down to bite and you have control of his head.

I would expand my fist and thumb almost to the point of choking him and at the same time rested the back palm of my hand on his forehead with the eye dropper pointing down.

Drop the meds in his eyes. It was a fight the whole time and it takes a little tenatiousness on your part. He will hate it, he will try to bite but don't let go until you've completed the deed. You won't get a second chance.

At first I would sweat bullets as it was so stressfull and I would get bit because I was afraid I was hurting him. But then I just became just as stubborn as he was and learned not to let go or I will get bit.

That's pretty much how I had to groom him to do his face and wash and trim around his eye's:eek:

He was a handfull but we loved him and still miss him.

One other suggestion I learned from my vet was to tap him on the top of the head with your finger. Just a tap, tap, tap, skip, tap, tap, tap. I seems to distract them. I still use that technique today sometimes when I am grooming dogs and trying to cut their nails or trim thier sanitary area.

[Carol G]

Thank you Louise, Jenny & John.

After distancing myself from the situation for a short time yesterday and then discussing it with a friend who has spent a lot of time with McGill, I reached the painful decision to let him go.

I believe that he is in much more pain than I was realizing/accepting and I think mentally all is not right with him. In addition, I think treating this eye (even if I could manage it) would be extremely difficult for him and make his quality of life even less. I also think losing Winnie has probably impacted him a lot -- at the very least in a "what's wrong with this picture" sort of way.

I have a vet that makes house calls coming here early this afternoon. So at least he doesn't have to go to the vet one last time and the stress for him will be much less.

I didn't sleep much last night and at a few points had second thoughts but this morning I know it is what I have to do.

Carol

[Squirt's Mom]

Oh Carol,

My heart is breaking for you. What a difficult decision to make and have to sleep on knowing what the morrow would bring.

Please know I am with you this afternoon, as many others will be, holding your hand, lending our strength and love.

Give McGill a gently head and butt rub for us,
Hugs,
Leslie and the girls

[Buffaloe]

Carol,

I am so sorry to hear about McGill. I understand and fully support your decision. My goodness, he is 16 1/2, what a blessing to have him for so very long. I'm real glad the vet is coming to your house. You are doing the right thing, you just can't let McGill suffer. Please take good care of yourself and know that you have done everything possible for McGill. He has lived a wonderful and extremely long life.

Ken

[Roxee's Dad]

Carol,
I am so sorry you are put in this position. McGill has had a long life and in reading back thru your thread, it seems he may have been trying to tell you this for a little while now.

McGill will be pain free and waiting at the Rainbow Bridge for you. We will be here for you.

Gentle and loving thought's to you from all of us.

[zoesmom]

Carol -

I think you are doing the right thing for McGill and you gave it some more time and thought about and it all became more clear to you. We, too, had a grumpy dog that resisted being touched and tended to. It just became so hard in the end, when she wouldn't let us even help her up the stairs without turning on us. That's when I knew it was time to let go. And so when it is good-bye, you should feel no guilt. You gave McGill a wonderful life in your care and it is undoubtedly time to let him move on - and rejoin Winnie so that he can run free in a place where there are no vets and vet offices to traumatize him. You are doing a brave and selfless thing for your beloved baby. Godspeed, McGill. Big hugs for you both. Sue/Zoe

[mytil]

Dearest Carol,

We are all with you and yes it is a hard, gut wrenching decision but when your pup gives you these signals (and you know him best) it is your love for him and promise to him that makes it easier to allow him to cross peacefully and be no longer in such pain.

What a wonderful life he has had with you.

((((((hugs))))))
Terry

[gpgscott]

Carol,

You and McGill are the only ones who can make this call. They are so hard to read, when they don't feel well they push back and I think the stronger the bond the bigger the push.

Hugs and prayers for you both. Scott

[ladysmom06]

Carol,

I am so sorry that you have to make this decision. Please know that I am thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers. Hugs to you.

Luv,
Lynne and Angel Lady 7/98-3/09

[Wylie's Mom]

Carol,

I’m so sorry about McGill. The fact that he has lived as long as he has is a testment to the love & care you have given him. Based on what you are currently seeing, I also think you are doing the right thing for him. It’s so thoughtful of you to have a vet come to your home. Please know that our thoughts & prayers are with you.

((((Hugs))))
-Susy

[BestBuddy]

Carol,

The right decision is the one made with love and I know that you struggled with what to do but knew there was only one way. McGill was a great age and I'm not going to say he had a long life because it would never be long enough. I can say he had a good life and someone who cared about him very much.

Jenny

[k9diabetes]

Hi Carol,

I just now read your thread about McGill for the first time. I'm so very sorry to know that you have had to make this difficult decision but in all that you have written it sounds like the right one to me.

Chris had to spend months in the cone one year because of indolent corneal ulcers and if we hadn't finally managed to heal it up we were just going to remove the eye altogether - since he was already blind, it was just a source of pain and torture. He had to wear the cone to heal but he was MISERABLE in it, just miserable.

At sixteen plus with kidney problems... I couldn't put McGill through any surgery either.

It is very very hard to give up the fight. I know that so well. You manage and manage and manage and when you can't manage any more, on top of the horrible pain of losing your friend, is the frustration that this time you couldn't help him. You are committed to the struggle, to the sacrifice to make it right for them, and it seems wrong to quit. But it is a compassionate and loving choice at a time like this.

Sending my heartfelt sympathy to you,

Natalie

[SachiMom]

Godspeed McGill
Find Winnie and play forever.
Your mom gave you the most unselfish gift ever, to free you from pain.


Carol,
I know it was hard, so very hard to do. Your heart hurts so bad, but your heart also knows you did what was right for McGill. Have peace in your decision.
Hugs ~ Mary Ann

[MiniSchnauzerMom]

Carol,

My heart goes out to you this afternoon. I, too, believe you are making the right decision to release McGill, although it is a difficult and emotional decision. Just wanted you to know I'm here.

Peace, sweet McGill.

Louise

[Harley PoMMom]

Dearest Carol,

I just wanted to let you know that I am here too and my heart goes out to you as well.

Godspeed sweet McGill.

Lori

[Carol G]

Thank you everyone. Your support means so much to me.

The at-home service was a godsend. McGill was sleeping on his bed in the living room when the vet & tech arrived. He barked at them a couple of times but didn't seem stressed. The sedation worked pretty quickly and he passed very peacefully.

The house seems so empty. For a not so big dog, McGill was an enormous presence.

Even though my heart is broken, I am grateful to have had him in my life.

I know he was joyfully greeted at the bridge by the three female Keeshonden he shared his life with.

Carol, Atty Cat and always Winnie and McGill

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Carol,

McGill will always be remember here in our In Loving Memory section. When you feel better, please know that you are welcome to post a tribute to your precious and precocious boy. It would be our honor to share in the memories with you.

My heart goes out to you, Carol, and I admire your courage. You gave your all to McGill, no one could ask more. I am sure McGill is at The Bridge with his sisters, running like mad, free from all the pain and discomfort, and full of gratitude for all you gave him.

Our deepest sympathies,
Leslie, Squirt, Ruby, Goldie and Crystal

[gpgscott]

Carol,

May God bless you, McGill and us all.

Scott

[lulusmom]

Carol,

I am so very sorry that you've had to make two very difficult, very brave and very selfless decisions in such a short period of time. Your babies are together now and know that it was your incredible love for them that released them from their pain and suffering. They'll be waiting at heaven's door with tails a waggin waiting to give you big slobbery kisses when it's time for you to meet again.

I lost my Otis four days ago and the pain is still fresh so I understand the heartache you feel. My heart is breaking for both of us now.

Godspeed sweet McGill.

Glynda

[SaxLady]

Carol,
My heart breaks for you. I am typing through tears. Have to wipe my tears with the dish towel. You were a wonderful mother. How could it be otherwise. He lived to be almost 17!
Candy

[mytil]

My continued ((((((((((hugs))))))))))) Carol,

And sweetie pie McGill, go and find my pups too - I am sure they would love to meet you.

Terry

[frijole]

Carol, I am so very sorry to hear of your loss. May wonderful memories of all the good times help you thru this. Big hugs, Kim

[ventilate]

Carol;
I am so sorry about McGill. I know how hard of a decision it was to make. Many years ago, Sue wrote to someone
The release from pain is their's, but only if we have the courage to make the pain ours. It never fails to bring tears to my eyes and calm to my heart knowing just how true it is.
Hugs to you and yours from me and mne
Sharon, HRH Nike and Keani

[Carol G]

Thank you so much for the support, I can't begin to tell you how important it is to me.

I believe this forum added to McGill's quality of life and perhaps his lifespan. My regular vet would never have diagnosed Atypical but from information I got here, I suspected it and asked for a referral to the IM vet. So, thank you for that too.

Carol, Atty Cat and always Winnie & McGill

[bkdice]

From the mom of another 16 1/2 year old, I am so, so sorry for your loss. It sounds like you made the right choice for him and I'm sure he's happy to be free of all the ailments a 16 1/2 yr old body come with.

For a dog to make it to such mature years, they must be in good hands. :) All the best to you during your time of healing.

Bettina & Niko

[ChristyA]

Carol,
I just can't believe this! My first thought was NO NO NO, this can't be happening! I am so sorry you had to go through making the agonizing decision to let McGill go to the bridge, but I know it was the right decision. I'm sure Winnie was so happy to see him, as much as he is happy to see her. When we had to let Sophie go I knew it was the right time and I also knew she missed Dexter so much. She had an enlarged heart which is kind of fitting for her because she was so loving and gentle. I know losing Dexter broke her heart.

I hope you will stay with us, we all love you.
Christy

[Dollydog]

Hello Carol,
I've been following your thread for awhile and am just now reading this. As the owner of a very difficult dog I know how hard you worked to care for McGill. I feel that some day Lady will make it impossible for me to care for her without getting hurt myself.

I'm so sorry for your loss and I want to thank you for your inspiration...please take good care of yourselves at this time,
Jo-Ann & Lady

[forscooter]

Carol,

My heart broke for you....I am so very sorry. I know you made the very best decision you could...I truly believe that. I have often thought of what the end may be like for Bailey. It is something I worry about bc he can be so difficult to handle over the smallest things. If he was in significant pain, or sick, I worry about how we will handle things. And I think it is so stressful for him that I wouldn't want to add to that. I suspect McGill was indeed very uncomfortable and I think releasing him was the most loving thing you could have done.

I know how hearts break though....I wish you peace. And listen closely for him bc he is trying to tell you he is all right....

Love and hugs, Beth, Bailey and always Scoobie

[Carol G]

Thank you all for your comforting messages. The support helps so much.

Carol, Atty Cat and always Winnie and McGill

[ladysmom06]

Carol,

I am so very sorry for your loss of McGill. You were a great mom to him and I know how hard it was for you to let him go. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to you.