Change of Habit

A glorious week of warm weather in Alberta has presented Catie with an unexpected dilemma.

Like the world’s diminishing glaciers, the snow on the deck day-by-day narrowed to a thin ribbon no longer sustainable for the effortless pee breaks she’s become accustomed to since the beginning of her illness. She squatted precariously at several locations last evening before admitting defeat and hopping down the three steps into the yard, just when Riley had been starting to think it was now his private domain.

Catie’s appetite’s been uneven this week. Some normal golden voraciousness mixed with some uncommon apathy. The bouts of mealtime disinterest, naturally, worry me (because that’s what I do very well) and befuddle Riley (who can’t imagine not being excited about food).

Catie, to my ever suspicious eye, has been a bit tired. She’s also had some frightful flatulence.

Like right now. As I type. Good grief. Even Riley has left the room.

I’m close behind him.

Author: CatiesMom

Mom of SEVEN-year old Catie and five-year old Riley, Golden Retrievers.

4 thoughts on “Change of Habit”

  1. Hang in there Catie! We hope your appetite gets better, you need to stop worrying your Mom and Riley! You are going to drive Riley nuts not eating your food, especially since he doesn’t get to eat it either!

    XOXO Catie!!! Hi-fives Riley (I’m on your side trying to get you more food)

    Dillon and Rhys

  2. I can totally relate, Carmen. Those few steps down to the yard are a daunting challenge for our tripawd dogs. The past few months, with Keaton’s hips deteriorating, and Sophie’s tumor causing her leg to be stiff, both of them took to using the snow on the deck.

    It is so uncharacteristic for our for Goldies to be uninterested in their food. Sophie’s been off hers for a couple of days, too. It’s worrisome. I hope that Catie finds her appetite soon, and gets the digestive system working again ! (Again – I empathize – we didn’t call Keaton “Mr. Stinky” for nothing !! Whew … way to clear a room…!)

  3. I am with you in worrying when they don’t eat. Holly’s appetite was off for over a week after her last round of chemo – and I was very worried. Her appetite did eventually return, and when it did she was so excited to eat again – it is amazing how happy that made me! We hope Catie’s appetite comes back soon, and that she’s feeling well again.
    That flatulence is the worst! Especially when you’re in the car and can’t escape!
    Best wishes that food tastes yummy again soon, Catie! We’re sending you hugs,
    Holly and Holly’s mom

  4. Losing the appetite always makes us Moms worry so much. We’ve now gone through 5 chemo treatments and you’d think by now I’d stop worrying so much when Mackenzie doesn’t feel like eating…. but no, I just worry a little less. I’m with you Carmen, worrying is something I do very well. Hope that Catie gets her appetite and energy back soon. Sometimes it just takes a few days for this chemo to pass through their system. It takes 5 – 6 days after Mackenzie’s chemo treatments to resume a normal appetite and then after that – watch out – she’s an eating frenzy. I bet Catie will soon be holding up to that Golden reputation for begging and eating anything and everything in sight, right alongside Riley. Keeping our paws crossed for you and Catie!

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