In November of 2023, disaster struck. Out of nowhere, we heard a yelp from the room where our 17 year-old Collie-mix dog was sleeping peacefully just 10 minutes before.<\/p>\n
We found her on the floor, unable to stand.<\/p>\n
We rushed to the vet for exams and, after a full day, we were nowhere clearer on what had happened, if sudden paralysis was reversible or if this was it.<\/p>\n
At 17 years of age, our Nikki was suffering from dementia, had poor eyesight what was losing interest in food. Most days, she only ate when I hand-fed her.<\/p>\n
But her sudden paralysis meant that she could no longer stimulate a bowel movement without help.<\/p>\n
We watched 100’s of videos to see how we could help our beautiful old dog while we waited for word from our veterinarian.<\/p>\n
Some methods worked. Some did not. But this ice cube method was the most effective, even in chilly November. Warmed by her blanket, we followed the instructions and we succeeded in expressing her.<\/p>\n
Most days, it took time. Her dementia sometimes meant she did not recognise us at times. But, with love, hugs and kisses, she always came back. Once she felt calm, the bowel movement would succeed.<\/p>\n
We had her for only 10 days more before our vet urged us to help her go on her big journey home. She had lived 17 wonderful years. Her body and mind were ready to go. And so she did. Gently, in my arms.<\/p>\n
But I am forever grateful to have access to videos this for helping us soothe the last days on this Earth for our sweet lady.<\/p>\n
If you wish to learn more about Nikki, her memory will forever live on here at KindBunch. Her name was Nikki and here<\/a> is her story.<\/p>\n