Let me first preface this post by assuring you that Dozer is currently ok.
He has a condition called laryngeal paralysis which is obstructing his breathing.
He is home after being in surgery, exhausted.
Dozer heading in for tests at our local vet
Here is an update on whats happened and why Im telling you.
Think of it like a flap in your throat that opens to let air in.
Its a nerve deterioration condition thats irreversible and untreatable.
Dozer heading in for tests at our local vet
In the last week before his surgery, the lack of oxygen meant he was permanently lethargic.
He didnt want to go for walks or swim.
He couldnt climb stairs.
And most concerning (not joking), he wouldnt waddle into the kitchen when I started cooking.
All he did was eat, sleep and go to the toilet.
And pant a lot.
Heavy, raspy breathing even with the air con on.
A swift decline
His decline has been swift.
Just sleeping all day inside.
In mid February he was diagnosed with one paralysed larynx at our local vet.
Then one week later, the specialist hospital determined that his other larynx was also paralysed.
And one week after that, he was in surgery.
The decision for surgery
There is no treatment for laryngeal paralysis.
I could have done nothing.
He could never chase birds again, or run with his friends.
Checking in on surgery day (yesterday).
His muscle mass would quickly fade.
He would lose interest in life.
His tail would never wag.
I couldnt let him be like that.
Its not living life.
The surgery went fine!
Look how plump and soft that pillow looks!
So, this update post is live and in real time.
His operation was fine, no complications.
The vets and surgeons there are incredible.
They called me just before he went into surgery and when he finished.
They sent me photos and reports at the end of the day.
Hes absolutely exhausted, still recovering from the anaesthetic I presume.
Hes breathing heavily from swelling around his air passageways.
Hes very wobbly on his feet, he can barely stand, let alone walk.
They went in from the outside of his neck to operate on his larynx.
Im so happy hes back home!
And thats because hes not in the clear yet.
His breathing still sounds raspy because of swelling inside his oesophagus from the operation.
Secondly, the operation does not come without consequences.
With his larynx tied back, he is now at greater risk of lung infections.
Which means:
no swimming the beach is his favourite place in the world
no more random treats.
And a whole lot of research and recipe development to create new safe Dozer-food.
All these questions came from a place of concern and kindness.
If youd like a little more background, I made a little video on Instagram you canwatch it here.
On the brighter side!
All that said and done, I cant finish this post on a sombre note!
And even with all the worry, weve had some lighter moments throughout the last couple of weeks.
Here are some of my favourites!
Realisation: ONLY LARGE TREATS
Yes, you heard me right.
Gone are the days Id save a tiny scrap of my steak for him.
Small = unsafe because it could fly into his lungs!
It has to be a 2.5cm / 1 piece that will slide down his throat safely.
Yes, you heard me right.
It isunsafeto give Dozer tiny scraps of food.
Youmustgive himlargepieces of your steak from hereon!
REALISATION: he can do what he wants
Dont stress him out!!
is the mantra around here these days.
Agitated Dozer means distressed breathing which has to be avoided.
Which means if he doesnt want to do it, no one is allowed to force him.
Plonks himself in the middle of the kitchen?
Everybody walks around him.
Doesnt want to go upstairs to my bedroom?
I move my bed downstairs.
Nudges you for a belly rub?
Yes, what Dozer wants, Dozer gets.
I cant quite believe weve ended up in this position either.
I NEVER GOT FLOWERS THAT BIG!
5. dozers big heart
And lastly, my favourite.
When the vet showed me Dozers X-rays, he noted that Dozer has a nice big heart.
I told him that we didnt need an X-ray to know that.
I love you, Dozer.
Youve been the one constant in my life since the moment I got you.
You want to be friends with everyone.
I have wanted you all my life.
I knew you would need care and attention as you grew older.
I love you with all my heart, Dozer.
Nagi x
Update:Dozer is doing so well!
Thank you all for caring so much about his well being, he feels very loved!
