I am thankful for Joy's medical issues.
Joy has chicken and seasonal allergies.
I am not afraid to dive into an eight week food trial with a client, or to use weeks after to pinpoint an allergen. Because of Joy, I have successfully brought several patients through the process and to comfort by avoiding the food or foods to which they are allergic.
I don't think an entire year of pattern watching is too long to figure out seasonal allergies.
I too hate seeing my dog miserable. Itchiness truly can be worse than pain. When I tell you that, know that I understand.
Joy has hypothyroidism.
She was overweight. Her coat was a mess. I understand how easy it is to miss gradual changes when you see your pet every day.
Joy injured her cruciate ligament and needed surgery.
I understand the financial stress. Dr. Merkley showed no financial mercy, but he took amazing care of our dog, so I'm good.
I understand how major this is.
I understand how difficult resting your dog for 6-8 weeks is. Many times, Joy would run past us with her leash we were supposed to be holding flying behind her.
When you say you cannot watch your pet receive an injection, I remember being in the middle of Joy's surgery with Dr. Merkley and needing to stare at the clock across two rooms so I did not black out.
We expected our mutt-mix-Heinz 57 dog to be the healthiest thing ever. However, because of her medical issues, I have grown as a veterinarian and pet parent. My empathy has been stretched to encompass a little bit more than it had, and that is always a good thing.
