Just Talkin' Dusty

I haven't written much about Dusty or Blitz in awhile because, well, I'm not training or showing them.  But they are here and they are well, so I thought I'd take time today to just write about Dusty and what he's been up to. 

This picture was taken a few days ago during an Indian summer day.  Dusty was feeling particularly good, and actually joined the crew for part of our daily walk around the property.  He even barked and frolicked a bit and so I thought I'd take a picture to memorialize the day.

Not that he's had a bad day.  Not in the least.  But he IS getting older (he turns 17 February 8 2012).  These days his priority is a Good Nap.  Even eating has taken a back seat to the importance of a good nap. 

That's a major shift in the Life of Dusty - eating was the end all and be all.  And that's when I knew he really and truly is becoming an Old Dog.  His diet has changed, too.  My dogs are fed Raw, supplemented with a high quality no grain kibble.  Except now for Dusty.  First, we eliminated the raw meaty bones as it was taking him too long to eat them.  I was grinding his bones for him.  Ever so slowly bits of the raw diet were being dropped - eggs first (upset his tummy), then dairy.  Then it was just the kibble.  Then the kibble, soaked in warm water.  Now it's canned dog food (same brand, so no grain and whole foods) mixed in with the kibble.  He seems to really enjoy this latest combo and is eating with a gusto I haven't seen in months.  So all is good in the Life of Dusty.  He's very happy, gets around very well in spite of being practically blind, and eats and poops with no complications.  At his age, that's quite an accomplishment.

After all my family has been through, I've learned all too well about mortality.  In addition to being grateful for every day I am given, I make sure that I hug Dusty, and appreciate each day he is here.  At his 16-year annual checkup the vet said he had the bloodwork of a 4-year-old.  Looks like I'll get to appreciate him for a good deal longer!

Next entry will be about the Blitz-man!