Ranger

Tuesday, June 20, 2023

The header is my boy, Ranger, weeks ago, hurrying along during an outing. He might have picked up an infection because he soon appeared to be slowing, aging more rapidly, with less appetite, and mostly wanting to sleep. Yesterday, he refused to eat and was lethargic.

I felt he needed an examination and took him to the animal emergency hospital. I frequently looked into my vehicle’s back seat as he lay very still and barely breathing.

A veterinary workup revealed that Ranger’s white blood cell count was extremely low. The veterinarian estimated cancer or an unrecognizable infection. She was worried and recommended that he receive fluids and antibiotics through the night. His workup list was equal to everything an emergency patient at St. Charles might receive. I left the clinic with Ranger hospitalized there for expert treatment.

In the evening, his veterinarian called, saying Ranger had recovered and was well. The fluids and antibiotics augmenting his white cell count had helped his body combat infection. His x-rays didn’t reveal cancer but showed arthritis in his rear and an elbow. The veterinarian said he could go home but couldn’t rule out the possibility of cancer.

Fortunately, I am off work because he must be picked up before 7:30 this morning. This episode is my heads-up to watch Ranger even more closely.

My old fellow has entered the danger zone.

He’s been with me since he was four months old. Ranger had shown up at my place as a frightened stray puppy. This image from several years ago shows him in great shape from running alongside my horses on trails.

I have lovely memories of being on trails with both Ranger and Louie, dream team companions and long-time buddies.

Dear Friends: Doing my best to do what’s right for my pets often is challenging. Diana