Dr. Sarah came to my home on Monday to draw blood from Bella. Although it is unlikely that there is a health issue, it seemed wise to rule out anything underlying that might be contributing to Bella's seeming lethargy. Of course 4 1/2 years in a cage might be responsible, but not every former puppy mill dog is like Bella.
Sarah was very gentle with Bella. She and I spoke for a while in the living room first so that Bella could hear her voice and not be shocked when she came back into her room. As Sarah drew the blood, I stroked Bella's head and comforted her. Bella was 100% cooperative as she always is. Sarah obtained her vials without incident. We already know that the blood work came back normal aside from the thyroid panel. We are still awaiting those results.
Generally, Bella seems better to me. She is alert and seems to even enjoy some pets. I have been told that if she is stiff when I pet her, she doesn't want it, whereas if she is floppy, she does. Bella is somewhere in between, but definitely not stiff. I feel that she enjoys it a bit, and certainly enjoys the treat that comes after.
I also think that the composure pro suggested and offered by Susan Wiser from the Cayuga Dog Rescue might be helping. Each little movement toward doggy-ness is welcomed.
Perhaps the best news of all is that her pet sitter, Valerie, and I were able to give Bella half a bath! (We just did the top and rear of the girl.) Most dogs don't love baths, of course, and Bella is no different, but she tolerated our gentle ministrations on the warm, warm day we chose. Thank you, Valerie, Sarah and Susan!
Sarah was very gentle with Bella. She and I spoke for a while in the living room first so that Bella could hear her voice and not be shocked when she came back into her room. As Sarah drew the blood, I stroked Bella's head and comforted her. Bella was 100% cooperative as she always is. Sarah obtained her vials without incident. We already know that the blood work came back normal aside from the thyroid panel. We are still awaiting those results.
Generally, Bella seems better to me. She is alert and seems to even enjoy some pets. I have been told that if she is stiff when I pet her, she doesn't want it, whereas if she is floppy, she does. Bella is somewhere in between, but definitely not stiff. I feel that she enjoys it a bit, and certainly enjoys the treat that comes after.
I also think that the composure pro suggested and offered by Susan Wiser from the Cayuga Dog Rescue might be helping. Each little movement toward doggy-ness is welcomed.
Perhaps the best news of all is that her pet sitter, Valerie, and I were able to give Bella half a bath! (We just did the top and rear of the girl.) Most dogs don't love baths, of course, and Bella is no different, but she tolerated our gentle ministrations on the warm, warm day we chose. Thank you, Valerie, Sarah and Susan!
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