Reilly was disappointed that he didn't get to go help feed sheep this morning, but we also needed to deworm them, and I had one that looks to be developing summer pneumonia, so he had to be checked out and given antibiotics. Corralling the sheep into the catch pen could have gotten little Reilly trampled. So, he was made to stay outside the gate. He pouted for a bit, then went back to the house. He got a bath when we got inside; his first in the tub. It was easier than I thought, and he stood well in such a large space. It was hard bending for me, but I'll try him in my walk-in shower next time, since he stood so well. That way I won't have to lean over a tub, but can stand right next to him. He'll get taller fast.
I posted on a mastiff forum I'm a member of, about the limping, giving them all the details I could think of. The responses all leaned toward what I'm also leaning toward, but I will still get the vet to check and make sure. Panosteitis. I'm hoping that's it. While it could still make him not usable as a service dog if he has issues over a long period of time, it is the least likely of all possibilities to put him out of the job. And it's the most common cause of limping in large and giant breed pups, particularly male pups. That alone puts it higher on the list, but it's no guarantee. I'll cross my fingers now, and still wait until Tuesday.
I'm know I'm wishy-washy between paranoia and optimism. The prednisone emotional roller-coaster strikes again. But I work it out in worry, and let the professionals double-check behind me. The prednisone makes so many things harder, and helps so little. But it could be worse...in fact, it has been. And the dosage is getting reduced right now, so in a couple months I should be off the roller-coaster. And we'll see what's left! I can deal with both Prednisone Pollyanna and Prednisone Worry-wart.
Anna, he's one giant growth spurt. But the sleepiness evidenced yesterday was rather extreme. We'll see how he does today. Lots of things can make you tired. His appetite is still good, which is also important. And he's not on any supplements or high energy/protein/calcium foods.
Speaking of appetite....I think Chris may have solved the poop-eating problem. The carrots aren't fully digesting. There are chunks of carrot in his stools. Too darn attractive. So, he's off his beloved carrots for a few days, while we watch and see if this changes his behavior. If it does, then he'll be off carrots until he can hold it all night. Once he reaches that point, we can give them back, and just pick up the yard after him. But if he's pooping carrot-studded snack-poo during the night when we're asleep, there's nobody to stop him. It's a shame. "Carrot" is the word he knows best! I'll see how he feels about cucumbers in the meantime. I offered him plain rice this morning when the big Boys got their rice and eggs, but he was not interested at all. And he doesn't need the extra protein in the eggs. I need to find something he can have when they get their breakfast. Perhaps just a couple dog biscuits will make him happy.
He's done very well with company today. They are all at the pistol range behind the workshop, and he's sleeping through the shooting. He's been showing off his good company manners while they're here, though. No pottying inside, left Amy's flip-flops alone when told, hasn't been harassing Murph. Hard to tell if he's being good or just tired, but he's been asleep for several hours now. On the other hand, we did take them on a walk-about of the place as Amy wanted to see the sheep, so he made the rounds again as if for feeding but during the hot part of the day. A reason to be more tired today. Did a little limping, but not much. And he doesn't seem to be in the pain he was in yesterday, either. We'll see if that holds all day.
10:00 pm:
After the company left, Reilly turned back into a puppy. Just like kids after the company has gone home. Not dreadful, but funny. He didn't sleep so much today, and had maybe five minutes of acting like something hurt. I'm not the only wishy-washy one around here!
It's been a very long day today, so Reilly and I are headed of to bed. Tomorrow is another day.
Meg and Reilly
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