svengandhi
Well-Known Member
A week ago, H decided to let the fire in the fire pit bank. Two days later, he let the dogs into the yard alone. Our 14 year old border collie, who's been having trouble walking, stepped into the fire pit and fell over into it. My baby mini Maltese's shrieks brought babyboy running and he pulled the older dog out. She sustained third degree burns on 2 paws and less severe burns on the other two. Her fur was singed but, thankfully, H had not yet shaved her for the summer or her skin would have been destroyed. The vet says that the dog is arthritic and has cataracts. I am arthritic and have cataracts, too, and I'm not about to put a dog down for what I also have. However, the poor thing is suffering. Her paws have to be debrided daily which H and daughter are doing, she is on opioid medications and antibiotics. Her paws are wrapped and she has to wear a cone head because she tries to lick the wounds. We have to keep her inside so flies don't get into the wounds. She can barely stand and has to be carried in and out to do her business. I am so not a dog person but this dog has been with my kids since she was 8 weeks old and I can't bear to see her and them suffering. I even told H he could put her on the floor in our room and I have never allowed a dog in my room. H is wracked by guilt as well (more guilt than he felt when I caught him cheating on me, for whatever that's worth!).
I was wondering if there was anything else anyone can suggest to ease her pain. It's actually very sad to see this beautiful dog suffering. She's a border collie and extremely intelligent; her eyes show her pain and confusion. difficult child and I spoke today about how we think the dog might not survive the summer.
Thanks.
I was wondering if there was anything else anyone can suggest to ease her pain. It's actually very sad to see this beautiful dog suffering. She's a border collie and extremely intelligent; her eyes show her pain and confusion. difficult child and I spoke today about how we think the dog might not survive the summer.
Thanks.