Buddy… just a few days ago.
Nearly 13 years old, his age is definitely catching up with him. He has nearly lost all his hearing, and his eyes are smokey with age. He has Geriatric Onset Laryngeal Paralysis Polyneuropathy (link) and not only is it visible in his unsteady gait, but even at rest the the wasting of his muscle mass in his hind end and odd twist of his paws are clearly evident. He often drags his knuckles when he walks. He no longer tries to sit – he just can’t trust his hind legs – and getting into a prone position is a slow process – painful for those of us observing, but not to him, thankfully. Ever watch an old person navigate a chair? That’ll give you a good idea of the care with which he lays his body down. He is not in any pain, he’s just getting weaker.
He is still as loving and devoted to us as ever.
And we to him.
Carissa Snedeker Photography 
The trouble is that time passes so quickly and you have to remember to think how old they really are. Loosing Carla last year was a blow but we have our Buster to keep us on our toes….yet this week he slowed down in the heat and a solemn reminder that at 11 he is not getting any younger (yet he still looks like a pup)
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It’s the bargain we make, isn’t it, when we welcome these creatures into our lives.
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Yep…a good bargain as they give so much love without any demands (apart from walkies, a biscuit or two and the occasional cuddle)
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All those are happily given! 🙂
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Good to know he’s not in pain. Sad to hear about the rest, but we all get there eventually (hopefully – the alternative is not any better).
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Agree. If he were in pain, we would do what we could to mitigate it. He does get an anti-inflammatory every day. in addition to the GOLPP, he has arthritis.
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Bless him, I think I know how he feels! How often do I wish they could grow old as we grow old? They are with us for so little time. Honey is eight now, and it seems like only yesterday…
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