A new dog is born

So, I arrive at the clinic at about nine, the ladies take me directly back to see Bud, and his tail is waggin' and he's got a big oil' smile on his face--yes, I know that dogs can't actually smile, but let me imagine. The minute I open the cage Buddy's on all three paws. He walks straight out as if nothing had happened, and starts mingling with the staff and other patients.

What an awesome guy!

Dr. Greg gives us some instructions and leaves little doubt that this fella's gonna be just fine. From me and my pup, thank you Horizon team for your wonderful care and support. You've gone the extra mile, providing an exceptional example for the veterinary field.

I'm having problems loading videos onto the blog but if you want to see more you can go to the following link.

https://plus.google.com/112847431158911205441/posts/XbJbHd5MTTo

Loosing a leg

This is not a decision I'm making lightly. I don't see much of an alternative considering the severity of Buddy's injury. So, I've given doctor Greg the go ahead.

Buddy looked reasonably comfortable when I visited him this morning. He's due for the amputation around 11:00. They're going to take the leg off mid femur, but try to leave all the hip mussel intact.  I've been told that he may be released this evening, or tomorrow morning.

Obviously, we're going to be here in Lewistown for a little while. I guess it all depends on Bud and how well he adapts to this change.

The makings of a champion

We hiked off the highway the other day and climbed a ridge to look back on the continental divide. Buddy stood tall at the top so I took this shot thinking: 'You pedigree dogs can eat your heart out. Bud's got you all beat.'

Prime beef country

Today Bud tried his paw at herding cows. I'd say he'll make a great cattle dog if the life of a long distance traveller doesn't end up suiting him.

Harassing Horses

They don't seem to be too put off. But for some reason Bud had to let them know who's boss--at least in his mind.

New Shoes

Buddy's got himself some stylish new trainers courtesy of my seamstress mother. Thinking of the miles of inhospitable pavement, she'd recommended some protective wear a couple weeks ago. So, we found some heavy canvas material and copied a template for doggie shoes. After some modifications she finally came up with a design that works well. Although, it'll take some getting used to, Buddy will definitely be happy to have them on hot days.

Experimenting with a Surger

 

'Something feels a bit different.'



Not a very happy fellow

Poor guy! Buddy's had a little cut on his ear that's increasingly getting worse due to his violent head shaking. I sort of botched the bandage today in an attempt to keep the ear stationary long enough for the medicine to work and the ear to heal a bit. It seems he may also be suffering from some ear mites. I guess we'll have to make another trip to the vet. :(

On a brighter note, he's been really good about letting me clean his ears (something he absolutely hated when I first got him). Sometimes he actually seems to be enjoying it.