vet trip

I was off work yesterday, and used the opportunity to take my Pate to the vet.  We didn't go to the vet that was really leaning more toward euthanasia, but the best vet in Franklin, Dr. Beauchamp.  I didn't get in to see him specifically as he was out of town, but I did leave there feeling a little lighter.

It took me back to the first time I met Dr. Beauchamp.  Pate was already considered an "older" dog, and Dr. Beauchamp was extremely gentle and kind to him.  He has a special way about the way he practices medicine.  It's always amazing to meet someone in life who is doing what they are called to do... so many times people are unhappy with their professions in life.  Dr. Beauchamp is one of the few that is doing what he loves. 

He won me over that day but sealed the deal when just a couple of days later a letter came in the mail personally written from him.  Pate has seen countless vets and specialists for his cushing's disease.  Not once has a single vet taken the time to personally write a handwritten letter.  I really hope I didn't throw the letter away but the gist of it was how honored he was that I chose him to take care of my dear Pate.  You can tell he is doing what he loves.  I wasn't surprised to see that he had won "Mighty Dog's Vet of the Year" one year.

We left yesterday with another prescription... this time ultram has been added.  So now Pate's list of meds include Trilostane (Vetoryl), Rimadyl, and Ultram as needed.  The vet I saw told me that it was not time to consider euthanasia.  Pate is constipated and therefore has anal gland issues.  I know TMI.  I am giving him pumpkin (per her recommendation) mixed in with Science Diet Senior to help with all that.  No more stim tests for Pate to check on his levels.  It's all about less stress and just making his last whatever time with me as pain free as possible.  No more diet food.  Hopefully I will get another year with my little buddy, but whatever time I have left will be full of love for him.  He's been such a devoted little dog!