Doug is 12 weeks post a complicated luxated patella and TPLO surgery. Two weeks ago we waved goodbye to our surgeon. As of last week, we probably had about six weeks more to go until he was free to zoom. We had just come off of pen confinement and needing to be leashed in the house. Our rehab had finally picked up in intensity to really start building his muscle back up. He was sleeping upstairs again.
In other words, we saw the light.
This weekend, Doug tore his other ACL. I’d personally like to live in denial of this. But Doug can barely walk now and his second surgery is today, so it’s apparently time to take a bite of this reality sandwich.
I sorta wish we had not seen the light or given him more freedom. To have it given, then abruptly taken away, has left him angry. He now sits in the pen and barks at me non stop. Not ideal, for either of us.
I don’t really have the words to describe how hard it has been to keep Doug’s activity restricted. I know a lot of people probably say that about their dogs, but the people around us can confirm that Doug is not, most dogs. He is constantly in motion. When he’s being held back, he goes into destructive mode. And as much as that drives me nuts, it is way more taxing on him to have to live the life as an inmate. These leg issues keep Doug from being Doug. He should be going in and out of the house into the yard whenever he wants. He should be running zoomies. Instead, he’s been in jail and on tie down and the moment he starts to taste freedom again, the jail bars drop back down.
He holds me responsible for it all, and it definitely impacts our relationship building.
I am not sure how we will get through round two, but I know we will find a way. I mean, we have no choice. Hopefully since this one should only be the TPLO surgery and not the luxated patella fix also (please God), it may be a bit easier on him. Not sure about that but I am holding onto that hope.
If either Melvin or Jake needed this surgery, or even if they both needed it at the same time, we’d all probably be high-fiving. Staying still and resting was their goal in life. They probably would have cut their own ACLs if they knew it came with months of inactivity. This down time for Doug, goes against his DNA.
I have had Doug for almost 11 months. It is estimated he ran stray for about 5 months. I’m hopeful he thinks jail-city is still better than being stray, but I can’t be sure. I’m trying to focus on the positive: we can afford these surgeries, he has good insurance, he’s young so healing is faster. But the truth is, my little family needs a win.
Last night when I was laying in bed saying no, no, nope, no to this happening, over and over like a crazy person, I had a vision of Doug running stray. What if he had not been found? What if both of his ACLs blew out and he was dragging his bloody stumps around? What if, God forbid, someone found him and decided he was not worth saving?
He came to me for a reason. One of those reasons is to be mended. We all know he will get that. Another reason could be to test the boundaries of my sanity. This surgery may breach that barrier, but who knows, it might help us get through round two!
Is he going to test my patience? Yes, absolutely. Will he pick back up on planning my death? Probably.
Will we make it through? Of course we will. We are joy warriors.
Good thoughts and big hugs for you both. You do have the patience of a Saint. People look up to you though for all the love you give to your babies. Chin Up, You will get through this.
Well just so everyone knows, I have my human moments! I had to pull off to the side of the road and cry and pound the steering wheel at one point! 😂😂😂
So sorry to hear this news. Sending love and healing prayers ❤️
Thank you!!
Oh man I am so very sorry. I have the lab version of Doug (or at least it seems they are kindred spirits from your posts) so I can imagine how frustrating this is for both of you. Swy on restricted rest would definitely drive me crazy. Lots of hugs and tequila for you! Hope the surgery goes well!
Hug that crazy nut for me!! 😘
Intramuscular Adaqun is the only thing that got our 72lb labradoodle walking. One year after surgery he still had a limp and was leash walked only. His depression was terrible. After one month of Adaquan, he was a new dog. He is now on a 1mg every other week maintenance dose.
A year!!!!???? I cannot even fathom that timeframe! I have friends with horses who swear by Adaqun. I’ll make note of this!
Well that is just a kick in the pants for sure!!! But I do know that he is a very lucky dog to have you, can you imagine being a stray with 2 bum legs…certain death and lots of pain. Hang in there!
The idea of him limping around rural SC gives me strength to get through round two!
Prayers for both you and Doug!
Thank you!!
Oh my, I’m sorry for this setback. But, I know the two of you will come out the other side. Sending you love!
Thanks, friend!
I cannot imagine how difficult it must be for you and Doug to have him confined and on bed rest for so long. Bundy had a week of minimal movement after his recent operation and then a week of taking it nice and slow and still we had to watch him like a hawk because he loves to run up and down our retaining wall and chase birds. Any longer than that and he probably would have gone back to his puppy ways of destroying everything around him.
Best wishes that the operation is success and that lock-down for Doug goes quickly. I’m sure he is happy to be off the streets and somewhere safe where he is loved and cared for, the death wishes will be forgotten when all this is over. Thinking of you both x
Ack! Oh, Tracy! Oh Doug! I thought I heard a long wail of “Noooooooooooo!” through the ether this weekend. Guess that was you, sigh. For what it’s worth, we send tons of Boise hugs your way, and imaginary calming vibes to Doug (only wish they were real ones!). Joy warriors you are!