Big Paws Only Dog Forums

I'm soo sorry for you.  Having lost a bloodhound who was "my love" not more than a year ago, I can relate to your loss, but not your dog's, as my second dog, a bassett did not grieve as much as I did.  Maybe a new puppy would help.

Our thoughts and prayers go out to you.  I hope your Collie bounces back soon.

 

Gerty, Caper and Cheryl

Here is Gertie and Caper having a blast.  We just had about 1-1/2 feet fall the day before.  SOOOO much fun!

Hi.  I had a labrador retriever of excellent lineage (like THAT means anything) and I wish I had pet insurance for him when he was a baby.  Otherwise, I might be $6,000.00 + richer now.  This poor dog was so inflicted with illness....it was a relief for him when I finally had him put down at 4 years of age.  He was just too uncomfortable, and not himself for awhile before I made that step.  He had ear infection upon ear infection, ended up getting "elephant" ear - which is a roughening of the ear skin, stinky as anything, and raw!  He would make his ears bleed by throwing his body down on the ground, grass, whatever he could to scratch them because he knew I didnt' want him to use his paws.  As it was, he had to wear an elizabethan collar for a long time to keep him from ripping them to shreds.  On top of the ear problem, he had an exceedlingly low immune system, kept getting allergy attacks that made his ears and eyes swell up (from the dust mite, potting soil, strawberries and tomatoe plants).  It was very sad, however I would have kept spending that money if it only meant he would be comfortable and happy.  I now have VPI (Veterinary Pet Insurance) coverage on my 2 dogs and 2 cats.  Even though a vet's office might not accept it (like people health insurance) you pay up-front, and get reimbursed later by the insurance company.  It really does cover all their "normal" visits like basic shots, heartworm/tick/flea preventative measures, and you can purchase a rider for cancer coverage in case they get cancer later on in life.  It is worth it if you anticipate that if your dog were to get hit by a car (god forbid), would you really spend about $3 - 5k to mend them out of your own pocket?  If you have deep pockets, and can afford such things, then it might not be for you.  I on the other hand - don't know if I'll have that kind of cash sitting around for just such an emergency...so the insurance means my girls will all get medical treatment when they need it...not when I can afford it.

Good luck.

Cheryl

Gertrude and Caper's mom.