Lakota has been doing pretty well over the last month. An occasional cough and being a little less rambunctious are the only signs that she has anything wrong with her. We cannot walk her, and she only goes outside in our fenced-in back yard for potty breaks. It is really hard to keep her from running in the back yard, but when she does, I immediately call her into the house. I feel really badly about it, but the repercussions of running and getting excited certainly outweigh any apprehension from not letting her play. I have purchased some dental bones and treats to keep her occupied, but I have to be careful because she has a sensitive stomach. I am not sure the sensitive stomach is from the heartworms, or she is just a dog with a sensitive stomach (like our other dog, Bandit).
Lakota's personality is a little quirky right now, as well. She is acting very cat-like. Wanting affection at times, and then being aloof at other times. Again, I am not sure if this is from the heartworms (and perhaps not feeling well), or it is just Lakota. We have only had her for a little over a year, so this could just be her personality. She was definitely more affectionate when we first got her, but she was a puppy then. I guess we will have to just wait and see in the months following treatment. Thankfully, she will never turn down a belly rub or hug, but sometimes we have to seek her out, rather than typical dog behavior of wanting lots of attention.
For now, it is a waiting game. I want it to be over with, but it will be months before this is all done. I will update as soon as there is any more news.
Lakota's Mom
