I have always considered myself to be the eternal optimist. I refuse to see the glass half empty. Nigel, on the other hand, isn’t exactly a pessimist, but he does tend to see the glass half empty. Lately, my glass, my social tank, my attitude are at half empty, and that’s really unusual for me. Maybe it’s the season…you know…the after Christmas blues. Or, maybe it’s the weather. It’s been beastly cold. Then again, it could be Jack.
Max…
Max was our very first Westie. You’re probably wondering (of course, you are) why we (meaning I) fell in love with the Westie breed. The answer is short. My daughter-in-law’s parents had one, and we dog sat for them one week. I absolutely fell in love with Sherlock though the little stinker did run away from me. That had me all kinds of scared as I just couldn’t get that dog to come to me. That’s the famous Westitude you hear about. Anyway, within a year, we had tracked down a breeder in Fort Wayne, and got the cutest little puppy. We could have registered him but chose not to do so. Bet you’re wondering where the name Max came from, right? Well, the summer before, I hadn’t had a period for a bit and was joking with my daughter that I might be pregnant. That was pretty much impossible as I’d had my tubes tied decades before. So, we picked out names as one does! We decided Max Banks sounded just right. So, when we got this little Westie puppy, his name was immediately Max. Have you ever seen a Westie puppy?
Then Pete…
A couple years later, we decided Max needed a “brother.” We got Pete at a “broker.” At the time, I didn’t really know much about puppy mills, but I’m pretty sure this place was one. Pete was about four months old when we got him. He was in an outdoor pen with a bunch of goldendoodles and looked more like a cairn terrier than a Westie. And, did he stink! We had ridden our Harley down to see him as a way out should we decide he wasn’t for us. When he ran right to Nigel, that was all it took. We put down a deposit and went back the next day. It took about four or five baths before we could even stand to be around him. Max was definitely the alpha dog in the relationship. What made me giggle was when Max would pee, Pete would hurry up and go over and pee over it. Poor little beta dog trying to be the alpha!
Happy times…
We had Pete for seven years, and during that time, you couldn’t have found two happier Westies. Our backyard was fenced in, and they were out there most of the days during the summer. We had a huge birch tree back there as well as lots of flower beds. I had planted large blue hostas under the birch, and they were beautiful…until two little dogs set up a race course that went right through them. I loved sitting out on the back deck and watch Pete chase Max around and around the yard. We had a pea gravel walkway that led from the gate to the deck. Pete would launch himself into the air and sail over the walkway. I can still see him doing that. I only wish I’d gotten it on video. We had planted boxwood bushes around the pump thingamabob. Those two dogs would go around and around that bush scratching their backs. Eventually, the bushes became shaped to their shenanigans. The two slept on our bed with Max at the foot and Pete at head.
Til they weren’t…
In February or March of 2012, Pete started having some really nasty diarrhea. A couple of days after this started, he pretty much exploded in the bedroom. I got him into the vet that day. They x-rayed his poor little tummy and found it was full of fluid. The vet gave him a steroid shot and said she wasn’t sure if that would take care of things but to bring him back in a couple of days. For a few days, he rebounded and was the Pete I so very much loved. Just a little note about Pete…I was his human. He would only approach Nigel when he was sitting on the…ahem…throne. The vet said this was probably because he was basically feral for the first four months of his life so attaching to a human was difficult. But, he loved me. He had this funny little half jump, half dance he’d do when he was really happy. And, Pete was happy for almost his entire life with us. When we returned to the vet, we saw the senior vet. He looked at the new x-rays and said we needed to talk about quality of life. I hate those words, but I know their importance. We could have put him through exploratory surgery, but the results would probably be the same. The poor little guy was in pain and miserable with the almost constant diarrhea as well as lack of appetite. We made the agonizing decision to euthanize him. I was so shocked that it never occurred to me to ask if I could hold him as he crossed over the Rainbow Bridge. To this day, I feel so much guilt. I wish he’d had me holding him as he breathed his last even though I know, with every fiber of my being, the vet techs and the vet were loving and kind with him as he passed. We had him cremated, and it wasn’t until his cremains were in the house that I could sleep properly again.
And weren’t again…
That June, I retired from teaching. Nigel surprised me with a trip to the UK. We boarded Max at our usual place and asked if they could groom him. Unfortunately, they didn’t have time to do that. When we got back, Nigel picked him up and brought him into me. I noticed right away that he’d been bathed. Nigel said the boarder said Max kept wetting himself. And, the pee was sticky. I, of course, immediately googled it. All signs pointed to diabetes so I called the vet. Luckily, we were able to get in that day…a Saturday morning. The results…yes, his blood sugar was sky high, and they couldn’t do anything for him. But, the emergency vet in Fort Wayne might be able to do something. The vet’s office called them, and we were off to the ER.
A little more…
Max had always weighed around 16 pounds. He was about 12 pounds when we took him to the ER vet. They told us he was really, really sick, and they would do everything they could. But, they didn’t know if they could save him or not. Regardless of outcome, we would need to commit to paying half of the estimated cost of his stay. They left us alone to talk about the two options…euthanization or hospitalization with no guarantee of success. I looked at Nigel and said, “I can’t lose another.” He then said it was up to me to make the decision, knowing what it would be. Max was in the hospital for a week. I visited him every day. He had a huge pic line in his neck. Most days, he’d just lean against me as I cried over him. Slowly, but surely, he recovered. I learned how to give him injections, monitor his food intake, and take care of a diabetic dog. Within a few months, Max was blind. Unless you looked into his white eyes, you would never have known it.
And, then…
All went well for about three years. He mastered the move from up north to Brownsburg, learning the layout of a new house. One time, at our house up north, I couldn’t find him. I looked all over. I finally found him in the basement. He’d followed me downstairs when I did the laundry (yes, he could navigate stairs even while blind), and he just stayed put until i found him. I thought that was ironic given he couldn’t see anyway. That last year, he refused to eat most days unless I hand fed him…and, yes, I hand fed him. We switched from the hard food to the wet food (which was disgusting). I doctored that food up with low sodium chicken broth warmed in the microwave with a touch of shredded cheese. It was still a battle. The thing is…he had to eat in order to have the insulin. He got a shot twice a day. Nigel was good about injections whenever I wasn’t home. Unfortunately, we didn’t connect with a good vet in Brownsburg. She was in the midst of leaving the practice so I think she pretty much phoned it in with him. That last visit, she prescribed an increase in insulin and shampoo for his skin. Overnight, he got much worse. Nigel took him back and spoke to another vet who brought up the “quality of life” discussion. I had already told Nigel it was OK if that’s what the vet thought so he didn’t have to make the decision. This is the kind of guy my Nigel is…he went back and held Max as he crossed the Bridge. Then, he arranged for cremation, came home to tell me about Max’s passing, and held me while I wailed.
Jack…
We got Jack a couple of years later. He and Nigel have never bonded. I asked Nigel about it, and he told me he didn’t want to ever go through what he did with Pete and Max. The thing is Jack is beginning to exhibit some of the symptoms of diabetes…lots of drinking and urination. I’m hoping I’m just imagining it. He has his yearly appointment next week so I’m going to have them test for that. Given the price of insulin these days, I’m not sure I will be able to make the same decision I did for Max. I do know, if the worst happens, I will have to be the one holding him. Nigel doesn’t want that burden, and I can’t put it on him. It’s my turn to step up and be there for my beloved Jack.
The outfit…
I loved this dress the moment I saw it in the catalog. It’s on major sale right now but in limited sizes and colors. Oh, it’s the Fizz Dress...isn’t that fun? I love the print and the colors and the general moodiness of the dress. I also like the shapelessness which is weird, I know. Oh, and it has pockets! The thing about Gudrun Sjödén is the colors don’t exactly match what you get! I added a slip in the color, Mulberry, which I thought would be a brownish purple-y berry color. Nope, it’s pretty much brown. I debated keeping it, but I found several other dresses and skirts I could wear with it. I think I need to invest in a nylon half slip because I’ve discovered the slips and tights don’t particularly like each other. I’m constantly fighting to keep them apart so I can walk…not a good look anywhere…let alone the museum.
The Lewk!
You’re probably wondering what’s happened to all my other boots, right? Well, these Miz Mooz Leighton boots are so comfortable that I reach for them over and over, especially if I’m going to the museum. I really like the Ocean color because they read as almost black but yet you can tell there’s some blue there. I added this beautiful Sylca Cream Mixed Media Necklace. I bought mine at the museum gift shop, but it’s also on their website (no affiliates here). Then, I added the multi-colored hoops along with three wooden bead bracelets to kinda go with the necklace.
Wrap it up, Marsha!
Well, that was depressing, right? I hope not because I really wanted you to come away with a sense of my Max and Pete. They loved life so much and just had a blast as “brothers.” One more story…one time they got out at night. We had a cornfield behind us so I figured they were in there. It was dark, and there was no way we could find them. We decided we’d check the humane shelter in the morning. Needless to say, it was a sleepless night for me. But, lo and behold…the next morning…there those little boogers were at the back door (I’d left the gate open for them). Pete was soaking wet, and Max’s belly was dirty. This is how I figured it went down. Max, the alpha dog, said, “Pete, you’re my minion so you will sleep on top of me and keep me warm and safe.” Pete, being the not alpha dog, acquiesced but not without muttering a few Westietude remarks under his breath. If I’ve already shared this story, please forgive me. My boys (furry, that is) have been on my mind a lot lately. So, can we talk? Is there a breed of dog you just love even though you know they come with a whole set of problems? Have you ever dealt with a diabetic pet? Do you think two dogs/cats/etc are better than just one? Please leave me a comment or two, and we can talk. I promise to respond as quickly as I can.
Thank you!
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Well, you know me. While I absolutely get the happy moments, it still made me sad, that’s just the way I am. It’s the hardest to say goodbye.
My “sugar cat” (“sugar” being another term for “diabetes”, no idea if anyone still says that) was Merlin. I remember breaking down when I got the diagnosis and my vet didn’t have much experience with it back then, but said we would tackle that together (I later changed to a different vet just with him because she knew more) and we did. I joined a cat diabetes forum and made new friends that way.
Fingers crossed for Jack that it’s not diabetes, but maybe a thyroid problem which can also cause those symptoms, but is easier to deal with.
The only times there was only one cat in my life was when Dude came with us from the US, but we got Mim only a few months later, and when Gundel and I spent 16 months alone after I lost Ponder and before the brat moved in.
Thanks, Cat! I definitely remember when “sugar” was the way diabetes was described. In fact, my grandmother developed sugar when she was in her 80s, and that’s how she, my mom, and my aunts referred to it. I’m glad you were able to find a vet to help you with Merlin. I’m not quite as confident in our vet practice as it’s now owned by a large corporation. I never know who I’m going to see. The vet we saw on Friday afternoon was so kind and helpful. She believes the thirst is more a symptom of the diarrhea. I’m hoping the bloodwork supports that.
Marsha, your stories about Max, Pete, and Jack had me in tears and laughing at the same time—those Westie antics like Pete sailing over the gravel path and the brothers’ cornfield adventure are pure gold! I’ve never had a Westie myself, but I’ve always admired their spunky “Westitude” from friends’ dogs; they’re full of personality despite the challenges like stubbornness or health issues. Yes to two dogs being better than one they keep each other (and us) entertained, though caring for a diabetic pet like Max takes real dedication that you handled with so much love
Thank you so much, Harsi! Oh, I really wish I had a video of Pete sailing over that path! It was an almost everyday occurrence with the two of them! They tore up my plants to the point that they didn’t grow again, but I didn’t care. The joy both of them got from racing around the yard was worth more than a few plants. Oh, my goodness…the stubbornness combined with the intelligence! It’s a recipe for them training you instead of the other way around. I definitely wish we’d gotten two dogs when we got Jack, but I didn’t even think about it at that time. I’m responding to you on Saturday, the 24th, which would have been Max’s 22nd birthday! We did give him almost four more years of life that was, for the most part, quite good. And, I still laugh about the cornfield because I’m positive that’s the way it went down!
Its so hard when our pets are sick…sending huge virtual hugs and love.
Rob said he wasn’t ready for another cat…but i said its not about him…its about giving love to an animal that needs us, that’s why we have Mav now.
Love the look,
Xoxo
Jodie
Thanks, Jodie! I know you know exactly what I’m going through. I understand what you’re saying, but, right now, with all of Mike’s issues, I just don’t think I could take on another pet. Hopefully, the bloodwork will come back with everything fine.
Loving a dog is such a special relationship, isn’t it Marsha? Unfortunately, that kind of love comes with worry and eventually loss. I hope all is well with Jack for many years to come. And on a lighter note, that dress is stunning!
Thank you, Christie! It truly is special because they just love you so unconditionally. I am hoping for good news once Jack’s bloodwork comes back next week. And, thank you for the compliment on the dress. I just love it!
Oh I will keep my fingers crossed that Jack doesn’t have diabetes. Or something else for that matter. Losing a pet is so horrible. It hurts so much. Good luck with him Marsha!
Thank you so much, Nancy! I had made up my mind I wouldn’t be coming home with him on Friday, but the vet seemed to think his thirst was from dehydration because of all the pooping. But, having gone through this numerous times, I still wasn’t ready to say goodbye. Thanks, again, my friend.
Your pooches sound like wonderful souls! Our kitties bring us so much joy as well. It is so hard to let them go and praying that all goes well with Jack. The dress is fabulous! I adore the print and colors of it.
https://www.kathrineeldridge.com
Thank you so much, Kathrine! I am hopeful after Friday’s vet appointment. The bloodwork won’t be back until next week. I loved this dress from the moment I saw it, and it didn’t disappoint!
Thanks for sharing the story of your sweet pups. Saying good-bye is so difficult! I hope Jack does okay. I love the combination of this dress and necklace – very arty and museum perfect!
Thank you so much, Sally! His vet visit went well, and we’re just waiting on bloodwork. The vet didn’t think it was diabetes as much as dehydration. So, I’m hanging my hope on that. And, thank you for the compliments on the outfit! I love picking out colorful and artistic outfits for the museum (well, for everything, really)!
Losing pets is SO difficult! They truly become part of our families. Jack is adorable. I will be keeping my fingers crossed his upcoming appointment goes well.
Thank you, Laura! His appointment did go well. The vet did not appear to think diabetes was the issue. She thought it was more he was dehydrated from the diarrhea. He is on medication for that and an antibiotic to restore the good bacteria in his gut. The bloodwork will tell the tale, though.
It’s so delightful to learn more about you through these blogs. I never grew up with pets in the home, but can only imagine how hard it is to let a companion go. I do wonder sometimes how things would be with a little dog (and the girls are forever asking for one). But that will continue to be a wondering for a while, likely!
Thanks, Edi! We have had lots of pets over the years. But, the Westies are the ones we had the longest. We had a Chow Chow, too. Jordan can probably tell you the story there. I was truly in shock when we made the decision to let Pete go, or I would have held him. He really was my dog. Just remind the girls that dogs poop, and someone has to clean that up…a good chore for them, right? Hahaha!!!
Our pups are part of the family, and it’s so hard when we have to make those tough decisions. All three of your westies sound so sweet. I hope Jack is okay! Love your dress – the print is gorgeous!
Jill – Doused in Pink
Thanks, Jill! All three of them have had such completely different personalities. Jack is doing a lot better today after seeing the vet yesterday. I have to wait for result from bloodwork, though.
I do hope little Jack will be alright as its so heartbreaking when they are unwell. Your other dogs both sounded little characters and I fully understand your hearbreak when you had to let them go . Our pets bring us so much joy.
P>S> I love your dress , its lovely on you.
Thank you, Jill! He is already much better, but I’m still awaiting blood work. The vet did say the increased water drinking could and probably is a result of the diarrhea. I have such regret about not being with Pete when he cross the Bridge. I will be with Jack when his time comes even though it will be painful. Thank you so much for the compliments, too!
Hi, Marsha – The end of life with a pet is what seems to stick in my mind the most, but it’s the joy of living with them that we should definitely focus on. Thanks for reminding me of that! I’m a cat person. Had a few and now have five feral kitties that live on my porch. I’m really worried about them in this horrible Arctic weather. We have a heated shelter for them, which they’ve been in a lot lately. My favorite furry friend has not shown up that last few days and I’m so scared that something happened to him, but I am hoping beyond hope that someone took him in since he is a friendly sweetie. Wishing Jack the best of health – Angie, http://www.yourtrueselfblog.com
Thank you, Angie! I love that…”it’s the joy of living with them that we should definitely focus on.” When I think of my boys, Max and Pete, it’s always with a smile on my face because they had so many adventures and gave me such joy. I have so many more stories about them both. I truly do wish I had a video of Pete sailing across that pathway. You could just see how happy he was to do it because he could and Max couldn’t! I do hope your favorite little furry friend shows up. You are so kind to be taking care of them. I love cats and would have a couple except for the litter box situation. We just don’t have the best place for one in this house.
So sorry to read about your beloved dogs. It’s so sad and as I read it reminded me of the two little darlings I lost. Both needed up with dementia and one also suffered with Colitis! It was horrible for her. Thanks for sharing on Chic & Stylish Marsha. Do join again and you are one of the favourites this week x Jacqui
Thanks, Jacqui! Even though it’s been over a decade, you never really forget, do you? I sometimes wonder about dementia with Jack as he will bark at nothing. Thank you for the link party! I love to link up there!
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