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| Harry, Joe, & Kali |
Back in August we learned our golden retriever, Harry, has cancer of the worse kind. Because Harry is close to 14, the decision was made to focus on palliative care. He has been placed on varied dosages of prednisone over the past 11 weeks and seems to be maintaining somewhat on the current regime.
Harry has always had a remarkable appetite, eager to try everything, likely to return for seconds & more. Upon hearing the diagnosis our 22 year old daughter, Jessica, placed Harry on vegetarian kibble. She added honey, garlic, and a whole stew of organic choices. No surprise when Harry eagerly chowed it down. What has been surprising is how receptive the other pets have been to the same menu over the weeks.
Our daughter believes its because of the diet. I agree the diet has been a change for the better. All three seem more comfortable in their own skin. Itching, scratching, along with anxiety have decreased. Maybe its the cooler weather? Maybe the other pets are demonstrating their solidarity with Harry; sort of like people who shave their hair off when a dear one goes through chemotherapy or radiation.
Harry's weight has stayed the same and he still want to go on Joe's daily 4 mile walks. Harry continues to inhale his vegetarian fixings with the same speed as the non-vegetarian kibble & extras. Harry still lies down next to Joe's side of our bed. He thrives on cuddles with Jessica and brings me a shoe in exchange for a treat. Lately, he demonstrates a marked preference to remain inside, instead of in & out and in & out again. He has stopped climbing the stairs to check on Jessica this past week.
For the past few days, Harry has not greeted me at the door. I thrived on seeing his great joy when I came home. Instead, now I seek him out and enthusiastically ask how my big boy has been. His tail thumps, thumps on the floor. I realize that's one more thing which is truly Harry and I will sorely miss.
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