Dog Drama!

Last Thursday we had dog drama because Arrow was supposed to get neutered but the vet forgot to tell me not to feed or water him in the morning. So when I arrived at the vet's at 7 am and they found out he ate breakfast, they cancelled my appointment. I had to take Arrow back home and was then late to work. While I was at work, the vet called and left a message and then I received a text from my husband. The text message said that Erik's dad was taking Arrow to the vet to get neutered at 1:00 and that Erik would go pick him up since I was going to be in a meeting. Apparently there had been an afternoon surgery cancellation and the vet felt bad about messing my schedule up, so they made room for Arrow. Now Arrow has to wear an e-collar (which won't stay as a cone so it looks like a cape) until this Thursday. We also cannot go for walks until Monday.

Since we are not allowed to go on walks I have been letting Arrow have more freedom in the back yard. The weather has been fairly nice so he behaves fine without me. However, yesterday he attacked a rhododendron bush and ate at least one leaf. Forty minutes later he was throwing up. I looked online and saw that rhodie leaves are toxic to dogs and can cause serious health problems like leg paralysis, slow heartbeat, and seizures! I called my vet and they told me to come immediately. Arrow was still vomiting so they gave him medication to settle his tummy, activated charcoal, and fluids. They also told me to watch for seizures and to keep him awake. If he gets worse they said to take him to the emergency clinic. Arrow was uncomfortable and bloated all evening. He wasn't allowed to have dinner so he got even crankier.

I am very pleased to say he is feeling much better today, but now has to be supervised whenever he is outside. Erik and I are hoping to beagle proof the rhodies this weekend. Boy, I never thought having a dog would be this much work! I'm just glad he seems to be worth it :)