The new year started out on a rough note at our house. My husband tested positive for Covid between Christmas and New Year’s Day, so he quarantined in the guest bedroom for a little while. It was a mild case, and he got to nap and watch TV while I provided room service on demand. Luckily, I was able to avoid infection due to the early quarantine.
Just before midnight on New Year’s Eve, Gidget McFidget started pacing and panting and demanded to go out in the cold rain. I bundled her up in her little jacket and she went out then came back in then went out again. We repeated this scenario several times. I realized she was in pain, and her symptoms were consistent with a foster dog from a few years ago who had pancreatitis.
Because of the late hour, I had already taken my evening meds and was in no condition to drive to the emergency vet as they make me drowsy and dizzy, and my husband was still testing positive for Covid. I decided to give her a little of the pain medicine she had left from her last dental cleaning then held her in my arms until she stopped trembling and panting. Eventually, she seemed comfortable, and we both went to sleep.
In retrospect, she had not been acting like herself since Christmas. When our son brings his dog Lola to visit, Bruce is very eager to play with her, and Gidget acts like a jerk to both of them. This year, she seemed indifferent. She probably had a tummy ache for a while.
We got her to the vet this week, the earliest opportunity, and the vet diagnosed her with a mild case of pancreatitis. She’s been eating a bland diet and taking meds for a few days. I can see the difference already. Her old habit of beating up Bruce and taking away his toys has resumed. Don’t worry. He doesn’t mind. There’s a whole box of toys in the corner and he takes out two for every one she takes from him.
Send healing thoughts for Gidget’s yucky belly and she will be back to her mischievous self soon!
Gidget McFidget when she first came home from the vet.
Brother Bruce snuggling up to her for company.
Gidget the day before we took her to the vet. You can tell she isn’t feeling well. She isn’t playing with her toys.
Bruce is trying to get some attention because I’ve been spending my time doting on Gidget.
Dawn Levitt, Author 