wizard-of-roz

I hope this finds everyone doing well.  Horton and I are truly hanging on........sometimes it feels like a fine, very fine thread that keeps me sane and facing each day.  I don't mind being alone but this virus thing really lends new meaning to social distancing!!!!!  And, because there are so many other's who are home with nothing else to do, they're setting off fireworks [almost nightly], since the beginning of June.  Horton hates the sounds and literally becomes unglued.  He acts agitated; panting, pacing and literally trying to climb onto my lap.  I feel so badly for him......I know that this weekend is going to be pure madness until these weirdo's in my neighborhood run out of the darn stuff!!!!! 

Aside from the fireworks, Horton is doing well on his new diet and medication.  CCI has requested a second opinion and he has an appointment with an Internal Medicine Doc. [of their choice] on July 22nd for an exam and blood work.  I don't like doing it because I'm not allowed to go into this strange doctors exam room, let alone his waiting room. 

I have to pull into the parking lot, call them and they will come out to my car and get Horton and when he's done they will bring him out to me.  I know that Horton will not think twice about going with a stranger and I know they will be gentle and kind to him but I don't like separating from him, at all!!!!  I don't know these folks and I can't oversee every moment they're with him.

I just MUST remind them that he is a Service Dog and will take any and all commands asked of him.  He just needs a very gentle, loving hand!!!!!

CCI is questioning the Cushing's Disease diagnosis and just wants to make sure that that's truly his underlying issue.

I'll let you all know how that goes afterwards.

18 hours ago, Mavis and Me said:

Yes!  I'm not a hugger either.  My side of the family gets that I'm this way, but my in-law side are super grabby and huggy.  It makes me incredibly uncomfortable, but trying to explain this would only hurt everyone's feelings so I tolerate it.  I will admit I am liking the social distancing.  My comfort zone is when everyone other than my husband is 6 feet away, then I can relax and participate comfortably!

Howie Mandel had this social distancing thing long before all of us ever heard of it!!!!  Maybe you did too!

3 hours ago, springredheadsdd said:

Me and my parents are thinking of doing something similar to that for me at their house. My vision is getting really bad to the point that I will most likely not be able to legally drive after my next eye appointment. Stairs are also a bad thing for me with my back issues, which makes everything else bad. I have a long list of medical issues, way more than a 27 year old should have. My eye doctor is baffled as to how I could have so many issues for a 27 year old white girl in the USA. I have a bedroom upstairs but most days I find the stairs hard and Bella does not like them either. We moved me temporarily to a spare room downstairs but it is not good for long term. My parents have a 1/2 acre so we are in the begging stages of thinking about putting a mother in law sweet in behind the garage for me. Just something with a bedroom, living room, bathroom and kitchenette. My mom would like to have access to a bathroom directly from the pool so we would have 2 doors to the bathroom, one from the pool and one from inside. We were also thinking of buying a duplex so I can live in one side and manage the people we would rent the other side too. Problem with that is I will most likely not be able to drive soon. 

You're very lucky to have the opportunity to have your own place, keeping most of your independence.  And, how lucky you are to have your parents to help you when needed.

14 minutes ago, rpclmc said:

I really need to get Halo xrays on his hips, he is doing ok, but when he plays too hard he limps for a day or two.  It certainly isn't an emergency.  Because of not being able to take him into the vet, I am just waiting.  Rich did have to take him in for a bad ear infection last month, I can't stand the thought of not being there with him, so I had Rich take him. 

 

Linda and Halo

I totally get it!  I hope Halo is not in too much pain from his hips.  

Happy Weekend Everyone!

CCI has requested a second opinion from an Internal Medical Specialist for Horton.  I will be bringing Horton to the hospital they've chosen for more blood work and an exam.  The only thing I hate about it is that I have to meet them in the parking lot and they will take him away from me.  It's NEVER a good idea to separate a Service Dog from their Handler.  Damn Covid!!!!!!!

In my head I know they're going to be gentle and caring........In my heart I can't stand to see him being walked away from me by strangers.

3 minutes ago, rpclmc said:

With a lot of states backing up their phases due to spikes, I wonder if my trip to Vegas will even happen.  I sure hope so, I just need to travel.  

 

I may just have to hop in the truck and go somewhere, look for our house.  We are in the process of finding a mother in law house, NOT for the mother in law, for me.  My daughter wants to raise her kids in this house.  If she waited to inherit this house from us, her kids would be grown or she wouldn't have kids.  We are on 1 acre.  Have decided to put a mother in law house on it and she can rent that and start there and when she has kids we will switch - her still paying rent.  Idaho is VERY expensive and unreachable for young people to buy, $350,000 for a small 2 bedroom.  So since we have land, we will just put here.  Rich doesn't lose his shops, Riki can raise her kids where she wants, I will always have someone around to help me as my mobility gets worse.  It is a win, win, win.  So our trips might just be looking at pre fab homes across the west until we find what we like.

 

Linda and Halo  

Good plan!

4 hours ago, rpclmc said:

Hope everyone is doing well.

 

We had Riki's graduation party last Saturday.  The state had opened back up, now has gone back a phase, but we would still have complied with phase 3.  We were in phase 4 which allowed gatherings of 100 or less, Monday we went to phase 3 - gatherings of 50 or less.  We had about 30 people, it was all outdoors and people just naturally spaced.  It was a nice gathering, nibbles, sips, games and a bonfire.  Halo was amazing, as usual, but I always like to brag on him.  The gates were open, he was not on a leash but stayed in the backyard without us even asking him.  Whenever my wheelchair turned on with the beep, he was right next to me to see if I needed him for anything.

 

My girl's cruise Carnival cruise in September got cancelled.  I am not surprised.  I think I miss traveling the most.  My daughter's boyfriend's mom bought them tickets to Vegas and they are meeting up there.  I decided I want to just get away.  Rich refuses to go.  I am just going for 2 days.  Staying in the Mandalay Bay, prices are so cheap.  I did my research on how they were managing the changes.  Mandalay opens July 1st (I go the 5th) and only at 20% capacity, they are taking temps and handing out masks; although not required to where mask, it is highly encouraged and they are randomly giving out $20 to people wearing masks.  The casino only has 3, instead of 6 players at the tables and the slots are every other or every third one and they are cleaning them as soon as someone moves.  

 

I am not a gambler, I plan on spending one day by the pool.  At 20% capacity for the whole hotel, I am guessing the pool will feel deserted, which is ok with me.  Another day I am just going to wander around at look at things.  If I get into a crowded area, I won't stay in that area.

 

Then Rich and I are just going to take a roadtrip, hopefully in my 65 Cutlass Convertible, if he gets it done, in August to Zion National Park and the Grand Canyon.

 

Roz, I am so glad Horton is doing good.

 

Linda and Halo 

Linda, thank you for the Horton good wishes. 

Your travels are making me drool.  I am definitely ready to hit the road or the cruise ship or anything that takes me away from this social distancing thing!   I know that no matter where we go there will be some form of distancing but just to see a new environment sounds so inviting!

Have fun in Vegas and do come back and tell us what it was like and how much you enjoyed the change of scenery!

2 hours ago, Plant said:

Except for the rice cakes it sounds like Horton likes the same things I do 😊 !

Well, if you're ever in the area come on over and eat with the big boy!  

5 hours ago, S.S. Cruisers said:

Roz, you will have to share Horty's new gourmet menu with us.  The Vet suggested adding green beans to Ms. Jesse's diet. So now it's green beans, pumpkin and dry kibbles.  She loves it, but seems to be hungry in between meals.

Horton's palate is so different than usual.  He no longer will eat any vegetables, pumpkin or sweet potatoe's.  He runs his nose over his dish and if he doesn't like it he walks away from it.

Cushing's syndrome dogs are notorious for becoming anorexic.  In the beginning of his disease process he refused to eat any kibble or veggies.  It was so difficult to watch him starving himself!

It took me days to finally hit the foods that he would eat.  He likes eggs [usually hard boiled], cottage cheese, Hebrew National sausages/hot dogs, cheese, bacon, mac & cheese, chicken, turkey, baked potatoe's, peanut butter and rice cakes.  I give him various combinations of the aforementioned to equal about a cup to cup and a half three times a day.  He takes a thryroid pill in the am and his Cushing's dosage in the pm. 

I'm living with a fine, elderly gentleman with health and food issues.  Welcome to my world!!!!!!  I'll live his life with him and enjoy his company as long as he's having playful moments and seems to be enjoying his life as well!

3 hours ago, Algebralovr said:

Roz - I'm so glad to hear that Horton is doing well.  I know how stressed you were over him!

 

I'm not a hugger.  The one thing this virus has done is stop people who are huggers from wanting to hug us non-huggers.  Some people just really can't help themselves, and there are some of us who are just uncomfortable with it.  One thing I'm actually pleased about is that going forward, we should see more people that think before hugging.  

Barb, although I'm a "hugger"  I totally respect everyone's private space and always ask before I go in for the "hug!"  I'm sure there will be lots more "non-huggers" in our new normal and definitely more awareness of those around us going forward!

Horton is definitely feeling better, although he's different, the sparkle in his personality comes out and I find myself smiling and enjoying watching him being playful and silly once again.  I'll take this change and enjoy every moment I can with him!

6 hours ago, puppycanducruise said:

Sending hugs to Roz and Horton.

So happy to hear he's doing better.❤️

Thank you!  He's doing well on his med's and although I'm not crazy about his new diet......he loves to eat again and seems to be thriving on it!

I will take all the good days that I can with my wonderful boy!

2 hours ago, Mabbiez said:

Roz,

 

That is so funny! Mila has a thing for grabbing things she knows she's not supposed to have, and will run and hop away from me when I try to get them. I have an Instagram for her and several of her pictures are with things she's not supposed to have (like a candle lighter, sunglasses, my credit card). She never chews them up, she just thinks it's a game. She still has a lot of puppy in her! 

 

I'm also about to move into a new apartment. I currently live on the 3rd floor in a complex that doesn't allow dogs, but they let me have her of course. Living on the 3rd floor with a dog is very difficult! The new place is on the first floor and is much more dog friendly. Right across the parking lot is a little bark park so it will be super easy for me to exercise her, plus they have several things out for agility. I am so excited!

 

 

Good luck and happy days in your new apartment!

6 hours ago, S.S. Cruisers said:

Roz, I'm a hugger too!  I had to meet with a friend yesterday because another friend of ours in the hkspital.  She has been since the end of January.  She had 2 big German Shepherds that are total sweet hearts.  The one friend has been taking care of them, but she is going on vacation and I will be taking care of him and the fishies. Unfortunately the older one h ad to be put down.  The younger pup is doing good considering his mom has been gone for months and then his brother is gone.  We have been trying to find a foster family but I think most people shy away from big German Shepherds.  Cindy has 3 little dogs and can't take him home.  Of course we have little Princess Jezzy Lou.  Kailua gets along with other dogs, he use to go to the d o g park all the time.  Anyway, to end this long saga, when we're done we both said we wanted a hug, but refrained.  😞

So sad!  Wishing all a good outcome!

10 minutes ago, S.S. Cruisers said:

Big hugs, Horton Jeffrey!  🥰😘🐾

HUGS........That's what I'm missing the most in this era of Covid.........I miss hugging everyone!  I'm a hugger and I haven't had a really good hug since this whole isolation thing started.  

I'm warning the world, when I'm no longer socially isolating......LOOK OUT!!!!!  My hugs will absolutely hurt!!!!!

I love and will accept Nancy's cyber-hugs to get me by! ☺️

25 minutes ago, Mabbiez said:

 

Mila acts like nothing even happened! Her stitches are pretty much all healed and she's just as happy and crazy as ever!

 

We had an assessment for her level 2 class on Saturday. She didn't do great. It was outside and extremely hot. She was just pretty much like "Nope not today." Even with the things she extremely good at! Luckily they give us lots of time until her level 3 class starts. She will only have to be retested on the things she didn't pass. We are also starting her public access class in July. I'm very excited about it! I know the trainers teach us how to deal with difficult situations and people.

 

Roz I'm so happy to hear that Horton is doing better!!!! I know you love him and are giving him the best life possible! 

I have to tell you Horton had to remain in Advanced Training for an extra 3 months because he refused to "re-call" and could not let go of his obsession for shoes, socks and slippers.  He was allowed to graduate because when he's on task and working he's unbeatable, just don't take your shoes off or let him off-leash in an area your unfamiliar with! 

Sometimes these dogs have weird, obsessive thinking processes that get in the way of their training.  A good trainer will look past it all and realize that more time and patience is all that's needed!

Horton's re-call is perfect now, it did take some time with me for him to get it right......the obsession over shoes is still there and I will find either a shoe, a sock or both in his bed at any given time.

1 hour ago, S.S. Cruisers said:

Roz, I am so glad Horton is doing better, eating mommy's good food!  Do you give him a menu and let him pick what he wants?  I can just see him with his glasses on, looking over the menu and pointing to what he wants, dropping the menu to the floor and running off to play and wait for his meal!  Sweet boy. ❤️

  

Nancy, it's definitely a book, and so worth reading.

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY EVERYONE!  

Happy, Healthy Weekend Everyone. 

Horton is doing better.  He's taking his med's, he's eating [albeit a weird diet] but he's eating three meals a day and is doing the "Horty Dance" when I finish preparing it and am putting his dish down-It seems that all four paws leave the ground and he practically pushes me out of the way.........What a joy to see him excited about his meals. 

My thanks go out to Dr. Chris Cauble-the Mobile Vet, who worked very hard to diagnose and treat my wonderful boy.  Remember, it all happened during a "lock-down" where everyone had to wear a mask, social distance and we were all secluded in our homes.

Thank you to all of you who have supported me through these scary and grueling days of treating Horton Jeffrey.  You helped to give me the strength and and energy that I so needed to face my fears.  

He's different in his energy level but he loves his meals, [I'm a good cook], is willing to walk a bit, sleeps better and has playful moments.  

I have lots of Ukanuba Senior Kibble that Horton will no longer eat.  I'm going to donate it to the shelter in my area.  If any of you would like to come by and pick it up from me please let me know through this thread.

Again, I appreciate you all so much for your support and love❣️

1 hour ago, S.S. Cruisers said:

Roz, I don't know if you heard Karen Mays (Sunshine), her husband Rich passed away.  😿.  Such a sweet lady and her boy Chesney was always by his daddy 's side when he was able to be at home.

Nancy, I'm so sorry to hear of Rich's passing.  Karen is the person I cruised with after I put out an invitation on our thread for someone to cruise with me.  We had a wonderful time together, with Brenda.

I will try and reach out to her to send my condolences.  Thank you for letting me know. 

3 hours ago, S.S. Cruisers said:

I hope I can get this picture to post.  It’s of “my” boy with his new Dad.  It warms my heart that he looks so happy, comfy and content.  He has been traveling, going to the river  working on his obedience and doing great!

 

He looks calm and settled........you did the right thing!!!!!

29 minutes ago, Mabbiez said:

Roz I'm so happy to hear that Horton is feeling a little better! 🥰

 

My little Mila was spayed on Thursday so she's a little off. She pretty much slept all day yesterday. She's at my parent's house today while I'm at work and they are trying hard to keep her calm! She's even had a sedative today but it doesn't seem to be stopping her. I'm hoping she sleeps well tonight. 

I hope that Mila's recovery from her surgery goes well.  She'll be such a happier girl without all the hormones running through her system.  Her life will be better.

On 6/12/2020 at 3:05 PM, DUTRAVEL said:

 

Roz, you are taking such good care of Horton. I would become a gourmet dog chef if I had to!

I made bacon and eggs for breakfast, something I would never make for myself, or for him.  He loves it.  I sprinkle some probiotic's on it and he takes a thyroid pill.  He'll have his Cushing's med's with his dinner.  It's a liquid, with a chicken flavor.  He doesn't seem to mind it at all.  Other than it being very expensive, it must be kept refrigerated and given with his food, it didn't seem to have any adverse reaction!

Horton still wants to work.  If I drop something he sits up, looks at it and comes over to pick it up.  If someone comes to the door he immediately alerts me, until I tell him "release".  His work ethic is so strong and although CCI is retiring him, he still wants to do something and I love every minute of it!

He definitely sleeps more and wants to simply lay down and watch what's going on rather than engage all the time but he's so much less upset and sad than he was a few weeks ago.  And, he's not having bouts of throwing up or tummy upset.  It's been a long and arduous journey for my boy and me, and, although I am exhausted, I am so happy to see him in a calmer less agitated state.  

Wishing all of you a happy weekend.

Horton is hanging in there and actually having some playful and positive moments.  I've introduced hot dogs, bacon, hard boiled and scrambled eggs, cheese, peanut butter, cottage cheese and graham crackers to his diet. He has changed his mind and will eat them for now.   He's on thyroid meds, cushing's med's, and pro-biotics sprinkled on his food.  I told you I'd do whatever it takes to give Horty more life [as long as it's pain-free] and he actually seems happier now to live it.  I had contemplated giving him vitamin injections but he turned the corner on eating, as long as the meals are small and some sort of egg is in them!

The Vet said that Cushing's dogs can actually become anorexic and simply refuse to eat.  I'm thrilled when Horty eats something and will try anything and everything to entice him.  He used to love vegetables and now will not eat any, he also liked fruit and now refuses all....I tried sweet potatoes this morning and he just pushed them aside.  He doesn't like pumpkin either.  It's a guessing game and as long as he's willing to try, so will I.  Soon my freezer will look like a commercial store!!  I hate to throw away food but eventually, unless I have a huge party, I will have to discard some of it!

8 hours ago, Mabbiez said:

Feel better Horton!!! And hugs to you Roz!

Thank you!  I love hugs!!!!!!!!!

5 hours ago, S.S. Cruisers said:

Hugs Roz, I wish there was something we could do to help.  I hope the doctor has some  insight today.  💖🐾

 

Med's coming on Thursday.  Hopefully, it will help Horton's system to head in the right direction of a better life!

8 hours ago, Mavis and Me said:

Are you comfortable giving shots?  In the livestock industry (I'm a farmer) we use injectable Fortified Vitamin B Complex when an animal is anorexic.  It is very safe (for most conditions - check with your vet in regards to Cushings).  Because it is a vitamin, any excess is excreted out in the urine.  You can give it subcutaneously (under the skin) like many vaccines, or intramuscularly (into the muscle) like most antibiotics.  We give it to critters whenever they feel blah - 2x/day for as long as it takes to get them perked back up and eating again.  You should be able to pick up a bottle (it's pretty inexpensive too!) at a local feed store.  Ask your vet for a dosage if this is an option for you.  I give my 850 pound cow 20ml twice a day, and our 150 pound goats around 5ml twice a day.  If I were giving it to my 95 pound dog, I would probably give 5ml twice a day; like I said, it's pretty safe, so under normal circumstances, it's difficult to overdose.  I hope Horty feels better soon! 😘

Thank you for this wonderful information......YOU are my hero for today.  The Vet has been giving Horton Vitamin injections and gave me a molasses substance to squirt into Horty's mouth to encourage him to eat.  It works on a short-term basis and then he goes off to the bedroom and wants to be left alone.  The depression that comes with this illness is difficult to witness.

His med's will be coming on Thursday, it's a liquid [because Horton refuses to take pills and will segregate them out of anything I give him].  Just when I think I've given him his pills, I'll walk back into the room and find a pill in the corner or in his bed, it's so frustrating.  Being able to actually drop the med's down his throat with a dropper is perfect!  This is an expensive disease but if these med's make him feel better, it's something I need to do!