That Stage of Life

I've reached that stage in life where I no longer have a doctor. I have a TEAM of doctors. There's the primary care doctor who delights in sending me to visit his colleagues. After all, it's important to help all of them keep up their luxury condos in Tahiti. I have a dermatologist, gastroenterologist, cardiologist, and chiropractor. With all these people checking me over, you'd think I'm the bionic woman or something, instead of the person who wakes up every morning and asks the question of the day...

What's wrong with me now?

My latest specialist asked me to bring along every medication (including over the counter) that I take. He'd like to look at it. Before I pack up my basket of drugs, I can only hope that I remember to remove the dog's medicine. Otherwise I might be adding a new specialist to the team. A psychiatrist.

Stories, Secrets, Success

Here's a heads up for all our blogger buddies. Chicken Soup for the Soul has a call for submissions. They're looking for stories to publish in two upcoming anthologies that will be of interest to all you wonderful writers who are also critter crazy. If you have an amazing, poignant, or funny story about your dog or cat, "I Can't Believe My Dog Did That" and/or "I Can't Believe My Cat Did That" will be right up your alley. If your story is accepted, Chicken Soup will pay you $200 and provide some complimentary copies of the book.

There are so few paying markets these days for freelance writers, I really appreciate the opportunities provided by the Chicken Soup folks. It's a quality publication with appeal, world-wide recognition, and a great reputation. However, if you don't have a critter story to submit, fear not. There are other submission possibilities, too. Read all the details here.

I'm hoping Chicken Soup can help me get on track. My pants are too snug. I'm eating too much of my favorite things, and the only time I seem to spend walking is when I'm pushing a grocery cart. And then there's all the "research"...a major excuse for not writing.

It's time for a better routine. I need all the motivation I can get to eat healthy, exercise, and write every day.

Blogger buddies, help! What are your secrets for success?

The High Costs of Health

You know that you visit the vet's office way too much when the staff call you and your pets by name, without the assistance of a cheat sheet. I stopped in today to pick up more of Indy's meds. He takes them (along with numerous other pills) twice daily to help with liver function problems.

It's been six months now and this metoclopramide has worked wonders to keep away Indy's vomiting and diahrrea caused by a compromised liver. Lucky for me, they're inexpensive.

Indy is a medical high maintenace dog. Over the years, in addition to seeing his regular vet, he's also visited numerous specialists in veterinary medicine. It all adds up to a lot of appointments and mucho money. But he's not alone.

Seems like I have plenty of doctor appointments, too. Let's see, there's the dentist, primary care doctor, dermatologist, chiropracter, physical therapist, gynocologist, and gastroenterologist. Tests galore result as everyone studies my bodily functions through bloodwork, mammogram, and, (joy of joys) the wonderful colonoscopy that I need to book again this year. Ain't it grand to be so popular?

My meds schedule is similar to Indy's. I take pills to give me gloriously normal blood pressure, pills to keep cholesterol in check, and a dandy little pill for acid reflux. Then there's the self-prescribed items: multivitamins, fish oil, calcium, and B-12. A lot of time and money goes into keeping this old body healthy.

When did my dog and I become so much alike? It appears time will take its toll on us all, whether human or critter.

But meanwhile, I discovered there's yet another appointment to make. Apparently Bogey is due for his annual vaccinations.

"Say whaaaaat???"

Celebrating a Milestone

"Which pressie is my fa-fur-it?"

"H'mmm. I really like this one."

"Yep, the green chewie pup fits my mouth just right!"

"Thanks for the pressie, Mom!"

Yesterday was Indy's 11th birthday, and for many reasons, it was quite a milestone.

Only four months ago, his vet gave me a dire diagnosis. After days of vomiting, diahrrea, and major lethargy, she ran tests and then showed me his X-ray. Indy's liver had shrunk to less than half its normal size. He had developed cirrhosis of the liver, more than likely caused by repeated bouts of gastrointestinal problems. She said he could have days, or at best, a couple of months left to live, and even made "final decision" suggestions.

Once I was able to process the message, I decided to get busy and do some research. I found information on care for dogs with liver disease and followed the suggestions. After all, what did we have to lose? Indy went on a strict diet regimen of lean, high quality home cooked food. Only wholesome organic treats were allowed. Daily meds to control vomiting and diahhrea became part of the regimen. We added the supplements Vitamin E and Denosyl daily, along with a multi-vitamin intended for senior dogs.

Things aren't perfect. Indy still has a few vomiting episodes from time to time, and has developed some minor obsessive habits, but for the most part he's doing well. After receiving such a negative prognosis, I wasn't sure he'd even be around for his next birthday. And here we are, celebrating number 11.

I suppose this serves as a lesson. It's a good idea to check into alternative remedies if you have a critter with chronic health problems. Whether a vet or a human doctor, the official medical world doesn't know everything there is to know about healing. It never hurts to look at all the options.

With no guarantees, each extra day is a blessing. Indy seems to be happy and enjoying life.

And that's exactly how I want it to be for my little old guy.

So happy birthday, Indy!!!! Here's hoping we celebrate many more milestones together!