I’ve had a difficult time writing this post. First off, Pretz is fine at the moment. She is currently looking quite adorable in her pen tucked next to her pink pillow.
As some of you might remember, she recently had an acute bout with vestibular disease. This is where there is a sudden onset of dysfunction in the inner ear or areas of the brain controlling balance. She was, at times, hysterical with discomfort and confusion. With meds for nausea/dizziness and a lot of love, she has almost fully recovered. She also lost about 20% of her weight, but seems to be gaining it back now.
Last week, I saw the vet about where to go from here (best vet visit ever btw). Much of the hour-long visit was to assess her quality of life and help me prepare for when I finally have to let her go. She is almost 15 years old and the cognitive decline in particular has been pronounced. At the doctor’s suggestion, I started her on a new medication hoping it will help. However we’re also realistic on where we are.
There have been a lot of sleepless nights and assisted care over the past month, but it’s all worth it. She is easy to prioritize when I remember the last 15 years and the joy she has brought to my life. Even when at my lowest, she’s always been there laying right beside me. She is the most important thing in my life, but I’m also mindful of what’s coming and trying not to hold on beyond a time where she is comfortable and lucid.
I know a lot of you have come to care for her too. The fact that so many have been checking in on her thru stream and DMs means the world to me. I’ll ofc keep you all updated, but thank you for doting on her over the years as I have.
Tony