January 20, 2020

White Dog stood at the end of the Coffee Club line next to Roman. Every pup tried to act nonchalant at seeing their coffee-hating leader patiently waiting for a turn but Roman's food aggression got the better of him and he snarled at her. We have a zero tolerance policy about that and he was sent to his crate to recalibrate his attitude.

Jaws dropped as WD daintily put her nose in the creamy cup and sipped. Then she took a second drink before climbing into my arms.

"Mmm," she said. "You know it was just one of those mornings when coffee seemed SO necessary. It is actually not so bad; I can understand the appeal."

It was only 10am and she was already returned from her visit with Dr. Julia. The appointment was fortunately our healer's first of the day and when Steve and White Dog finished, the waiting room was swamped with pets and people.

My suspicion that The Little White Dog of My Heart was suffering from a bout of pancreatitis was close but not entirely accurate. Blood work showed no infection and good enzyme numbers but there WAS inflammation around the pancreas. WD humpy walk was from the pain.

X-rays also showed some increased arthritis pain in the back end but no further deterioration. Steve's arthritis has been acting up with our weird wet weather so he could commiserate. Dr. Julia prescribed and anti-inflammatory for the pancreas area and a stronger pain relief for use during those times of increased back end sensitivity. She cupped WD's face in her hands. "And don't jump or run when you feel like this. Even I have to move a little slower some days." To Steve she added, "The medication may make her sleepy which is ok. Let me know if things persist or get worse. Otherwise your girl does not need a followup."