When Bob the Jack Russel was 4 years old he was rescued by Tarnia. When Bob was 8 years old he contracted a chronic skin condition. This was 14 years ago and Tarnia still carries a photo of him in her purse to this day.
What was your dogs disability?
He had a chronic skin condition. It was soul destroying to be honest. Seeing him suffering and us trying everything we could to no avail. Some things brought him relief for a short time but nothing helped long term
How did it affect your dogs life?
He was constantly scratching and biting himself until he was raw, and ripping out chunks of fur. He couldn’t be walked (the vet advised this) as everything irritated his skin.
How did it affect your life?
We found other ways to give him exercise and mental stimulation instead of walks. We had to be inventive. It cost us a fortune in vet bills (he was worth every penny though). We had many sleepless nights worrying about him and shed lots of tears. That being said, he also brought us a lot of joy.
How did your dog benefit your life?
He showed us that it doesn’t matter how much a dog is struggling, they will always show you unconditional love. He seemed to know we were trying to help him. He would still find joy in everything and I try to do the same now.
Did you find a cure?
Unfortunately no. general vets and specialists tested multiple samples but everything they tested for came back as a negative result. Years later, we still have no idea what caused his illness.
What did professionals suggest?
We tried every shampoo, conditioner, ointment and medication the vets and the specialists had to offer. Nothing worked for any longer than a few months. Eventually, all vets and specialists suggested that it would be kinder to let him go over the rainbow bridge because he was suffering so much and they had no more treatments left to offer him. So with heavy hearts, that’s what we did. He was almost 12. That was 14 years ago now and I still miss him.
