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.