Decrepit

Aged and Decrepit Dog is ill with a recurrence of rather ugly gastrointestinal issues. She had bounced back with medication previously, and we hope she will do so again this time.  Herself is rather worried, though.  A pool of bloody vomit is quite a cause for concern.

We had been delaying taking Aged and Decrepit Dog for an abdominal ultrasound as recommended by the veterinarian, because the only facility able to do so is 30 miles away, and the cost will likely be fairly high.  At this point, though, it's clear that further testing is necessary to ensure that there is nothing terrible going on inside of Dog.  It could go either way: the ultrasound will show "nothing," and we will just have to treat Dog with medication each time she has a recurrence of her gastrointestinal distress, or the ultrasound will show something dreadful that will force some difficult decisions.  Hopefully, the vet's opinion will not be at odds with Herself's thoughts on the matter.

Aged and Decrepit Dog is 12. Her face is grey, her hearing is a bit spotty, and her lower spine is nearly fused with arthritis. It is clear that any surgery at this point -- unless it's something quickly and easily fixable -- will cause her a fair amount of pain and suffering. And to what end? To prolong her life for a few months? A year?  How can we know? Are we ready to say goodbye? Is Dog ready to go?

Quality of life. That is where we will look. We shall see.