December 15, 2020

White Dog gave Steve advice while I sat with Opal and helped build up her courage. "Don't forget Opal NEVER goes away from home, Dad. She is going to be scared and is a flight risk. Be sure to tether her securely and take no chances. And when you get there have a firm grip on her lead and try to hold her in your arms. Caution Dr. Julia and the staff that Opal is fearful, unpredictable and FAST. Keep talking to her the entire time; she will count on you to be her anchor."

Meanwhile, I reassured My Sparkling Girl that this was a short adventure that would have her home in no time and while I could not go with her, dad would be there. If she wanted he could phone me so she could hear my voice. "I know you are very brave, Sparkling One. This is important so I need you to just trust that it will be all right."

Normally Opal and Pearl (before her death) saw the Mobile Vet. With the pandemic that doctor has stopped doing house calls and her office is far from our house. Unlike Pearl, Opal does not get violently ill in the car. As a matter of fact, Opal has even seen our main healer once or twice for non-threatening issues that needed immediate attention. I spoke with the Mobile Vet who had Opal's records sent to Dr. Julia before this appointment. 

Opal has hypothyroidism and needed to be retested to make sure the medication dosing was still correct and that no side issues has arisen. So today she went to be tested and get a full Wellness Exam and Extended Blood Panel...sent off from home by the bagpipe like wails of her Sibe Sisters.

Opal was well behaved and calm as long as she could see Steve. Dr. Julia drew blood and did a physical exam. She was pleased with our girl's weight and mobility; she found no mammary tumors (a question raised in her transferred records). "This girl does need a dental. She has a tooth that looks near to abscessing. Let's get her in right after the New Year and catch it before it becomes a problem. I will have the T4 and blood workup back tomorrow afternoon. I will call you."

"That wasn't SO bad, was it?" Steve asked Opal back in the car. "I don't think I like this dental talk," she replied. "Just get me home to momma."

After kisses and cuddles, Opal hopped up to answer White Dog's question, "How was it?"