Due to unforeseen circumstances, Bruno was unable to see Dr. Yamate until May 23rd. We were about two weeks past due for a session and we were out of herbs and supplements. His back end was very unstable and it was obvious to all who saw him that Dr. Yamate was a need not a luxury. Bruno was tiring easily and once tired, he was starting to drag his rear right foot scrapping his nails along the ground. This is a common symptom of Degenerative Myelopathy. Due to his decreased energy level, I had cut down his activity level but mentally the old guy was alert and strong.
Bruno and Dr. Madeline Yamate – Center for Integrative Animal Medicine
Needless to say, we were both glad to see Dr. Yamate. Days following his acupuncture session he tightened up in the rear and regained his balance. His energy level remained about the same and I shortened our daily walks. I could tell this irritated him. He mentally wanted to take the longer routes and would try to steer me in their direction. I compensated the walks by taking him outside in the front yard. The weather was nice and in the evenings he could lie outside and observe the neighborhood activities.
I regularly reminded the big guy that our journey together was a marathon, not a sprint. It was okay to be slowing down and taking things easy. I spoke this in truth but we both knew in our hearts that he did not want to take it easy. I did not want to admit it but old age and Degenerative Myelopathy were becoming more and more apparent.
I had to keep myself together so I could keep Bruno as strong as possible. I could not think worrisome thoughts and keep processing all of the possible “what ifs”. No point worrying about what has not happened. Together we would focus on today, and take one day at a time.
*Originally posted December 29, 2010*
