By Kendall and Chandler Brown
Monday, July 11, 2022
Dear Kendall,
My dog Oscar is my best friend. He always likes to play fetch with his favorite green ball and chase me on my bike. He eats my socks and gets scared when he farts super loud, but lately he gets very tired and lays down a lot.
Mom took him to the dog doctor and they said he is very sick and old. Everyone is very sad and I am sad too. Mom said I should write to you and ask for help to feel better about Oscar. I don’t think it’s fair that my best friend should be sick.
-Andrew
Dear Andrew,
Oscar sounds like the very best of friends, and everyone should be so blessed to grow up alongside a dog like him. My dog, Boomer, also steals my socks and farts so loudly that he wakes himself up from naps. He and Oscar would be great friends too.
It’s always scary and sad when our loved ones don’t feel well. Dog doctors are very kind and knowledgeable people, and they will make sure that Oscar is not in any pain. I’m certain if you ask they can help answer any questions you may have about his stomach and show you where he may be sore. You may be able to help give him his daily medicine and go with him to his check ups so he doesn't feel alone or afraid.
I’m sure you have been sick before, and you probably didn’t feel like eating a lot. Oscar may feel the same way, so you can help keep him hydrated by giving him low-sodium chicken broth ice cubes or watermelon. If he has a favorite treat such as baby carrots, diced chicken breast or freeze-dried liver, then you can mix some in with his regular food to entice him to eat. Make sure he has plenty of fresh, clean water in case he gets extra thirsty.
Oscar may also begin to act a little strange. He may have accidents in the house and feel bad. It’s perfectly normal and you can help Oscar be less embarrassed by taking him outside to use the bathroom more frequently and putting his dog bed closer to the door. You can ask your Mom to get him a kind of doggy waterproof underpants or put out potty pads that Oscar can access. He may become very cold or very hot, so you can get him a warm jacket or put some ice cubes in his water to help him cool down. He may also begin to lose some of his fur or not seem to hear or see you as clearly. A gentle daily brushing and talking to him in a calm voice can make him feel safe.
Think of your favorite memories with Oscar and make a list of adventures to have this summer. Even if Oscar gets tired quickly, you can still have fun together and include him. If he can’t run alongside your bike then go for slow walks around the block, letting him sniff and linger whenever he wants. You can set up a scavenger hunt with his favorite treats, fill a kiddie pool with water and toys for him to splash around in, or take him with you when your family goes for a car ride. Even going for a short trip to pick up a pizza is fun with your head sticking out of the window!
Take lots of photos! Invite Oscar to hang out with you while you play video games or read a book. If he can’t jump onto your bed or couch, then ask your Mom to help set up some doggy stairs or a ramp for safety and ease of access. I frequently read aloud to my dogs when they don’t feel well; novels by James Herriot are my absolute favorite, but whatever you choose to read, I’m sure Oscar will enjoy the story.
I’m sorry that I don’t have better answers for you, Andrew. It is very unfair that Oscar is feeling sick, and it’s OK to feel upset that this is happening. When our friends don’t feel well it can be very difficult to remember the happier times. But Andrew, it is important that you remember that dogs are happy creatures in their hearts, and one of the many valuable lessons they teach us is to find joy even when you’re having a bad day. So while it’s all right to be sad, also try to find your smile during the next chapter of your lives together. That’s what best friends are for.
Regards,
-Kendall
Kendall and Chandler Brown are owners of Custom K-9 Service Dogs, a dog training business serving Minden/Gardnerville, Carson and Reno. For information go to customk9servicedogs.com or email customk9servicedogs@gmail.com.
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