DB took Ranger in for his annual physical on Tuesday.  Yep, DB has now taken over the to-do things for the boys during the day especially appointments, cleaning their ears, and nails.  Anyway, DB told the vet, Dr. Mitchell that Ranger has been limping a lot since January and not much into his walks unless there’s a ton of snow out there.  Dr. Mitchell said he has arthritis and due to his age (9 years old), he needs to be walked every day.  He even told DB to “have Dawn continue his walks every day.”  He will loose muscles if we don’t exercise him.  It’s great getting old, isn’t it? 

Ranger received all his shots due for the year – rabies, lyme disease, parvo, and bordatella.  Drew some blood for his annual wellness check that consists checking of his kidneys, liver, spleen, glucose, and a laundry lists of a lot of other stuff.  What Dr. Mitchell did was also prescribed a different glucosamine for Ranger.  It’s call Dasuquin, manufactured by Nutramax, the same manufacnuturer of Cosequin.  The doc said Cosequin is good but not enough for dogs who are already arthritic.  Plus, he prescribed some non-steroid pain killers for him, Deramaxx . 

As for his allergies, I told DB to tell the doc I do not want Ranger to get back on his prednisone.  He has been off this steroid since early November.   What a difference in personalities.  He is much calmer, listens to commands, and he is not so much of a chow hound.  Dr Mitchell said he does not like it too, and he will have to look into other alternative medication/supplements for Ranger.  I just love this doc.  He and Dr. Melbo, they are the best vets ever, and every single doctor, technician and receptionist loves Ranger even though he knows where to jump up for his cookies when he get to the reception area.

Ranger’s blood results came back yesterday and all is good, no heartworm everything is negative.  Dr. Mitchell said he is one very healthy dog, there is no concern or whatsoever with his health except for his allergies and arthritis.  Even his weight is at the normal range for his size.  He is 80.4 lbs.  Just keep up with his daily walks, Dawn, don’t slack!!! 

Next week will be Cooper’s turn, the most dominant/jealous dog I have ever seen.  This boy, touch wood, is one who has not much problem health wise except for occasional ear infections and early season allergies (fall espcecially).  This fella is also limping especially after his rounds of frisbees.  I’m not surprise if he has to go on the same glucosamine treatment as Ranger.