We just checked Mabel’s leg and it is looking so much better! It is not a goopy mess anymore. The fur seems to be growing in around it and it is not bleeding any more. The lump is still there and she is still 17 years old but we will take any progress we can get. Oh and she ate 3 times between 11 am and 7 pm! Way to go Miss Mabel.
The interesting thing about having senior dogs around is that every day is a gift. You don’t take them for granted because you don’t know how long they are going to be with you. Dogs like Mabel, who have not known much kindness in their lives, seem to know and appreciate a soft touch. Deb was combing her today and her eyes were closing she was enjoying it so much. Mabel is not a dog who asks for much besides going outside and eating. When she asks for these things there is no doubt about what she wants and she makes it clear she isn’t going to wait. I am so happy that she feeling better after the scare we had at the beginning of the month that it is joyful when she barks and I seeing what she needs is a pleasure. In these moments she is so full of life and herself.
If you have room in your home and your heart think about adopting a senior dog. Yes, there can be issues (like incontinence) or giving meds or going to the vets and yes they may not live all that long but it is so worth it! I can tell you that they will live much longer in your home than they will in an animal shelter. The rewards are too many to list. Just know that you will be helping an animal finish out its days in comfort and peace and you will reap the rewards. check out SAINTS or your local shelter for a senior animal who needs you today.
June 19, 2008 at 12:35 pm
I’m glad to hear she is getting better!
June 22, 2008 at 4:57 am
Our home now consists of 10 dogs, 4 of whom are seniors over 14 years of age. Chris is right, every day is a gift. Mabel, especially, touches me deeply because I truly believe that prior to SAINTS and Carol, Maybee’s life was a hellish experience. She now does what she wants (which isn’t much) when she wants, where she wants. She has all the love and admiration three dog obsessed people can provide.
Mabel will live out her life in warmth and comfort. She will always be provided with the best of everything in our collective power to give her. She will be cuddled (if she wants), groomed (if she wants) and there will be an endless supply of treats. Just because. Mabel has already earned the right to peace and tranquility, and that’s what she’ll receive, for every day of the remainder of her life.
September 18, 2008 at 10:07 pm
[...] next oldest dog is Mabel at 17. She has also been the subject of several blog posts: here, here, and here. Mabel continues to do quite well. She is our little despot. She still sleeps most [...]