Today, Lakota had her first Melarsomine injection. We were warned that this would likely make her very weak and tired, and will also begin her extreme exercise restriction. My husband dropped Lakota off at the vet at 8:00 am this morning, and I picked her up at 4:00 pm. To my shock, when the vet brought her to me, she was happy, hyper, and wagging her tail. It is going to be really hard to keep her calm and quiet. I walked her to the car and before I could scoop her up, she jumped right in. I was worried I wouldn't be able to pick her up. I guess I don't have to worry anymore.
Driving home, she was her normal car-loving self, looking out the window, excited, and enjoying the ride. Thank goodness I had her in her doggie seatbelt, or she would have been jumping around the car. When we got home, I let her jump out of the car, but walked her on a short leash for just a minute so she could go to the bathroom. As soon as we got into the house, she greeted our other dog, Bandit, like she wanted to play. I should note that Bandit does not like to be alone, so he was very happy to see her. My daughter had come home earlier and told me Bandit was whining and going crazy when she came home because he was so lonely.
Now that we have been home for a couple of hours, I am noticing that Lakota is definitely feeling the effects of the injection. She is very restless, and keeps re-positioning herself. She has always been a "moaner," but she is moaning a lot more than usual, making me think she is uncomfortable and possibly in pain. The vet gave her pain medication earlier, (Carprofen) and her next dose is not until tomorrow morning. She is starting to get tired, and is sleeping on the couch. She also needed assistance in getting up onto the couch. I am guessing that the injection site is starting to feel sore. Three weeks ago, I cut my finger and needed a tetanus shot. It didn't hurt at all until the next day, when my arm was very sore at the injection site. I am guessing that Lakota's injection site (deep in the muscle of her lower back), is starting to get sore just like an injection we would have.
I fed both dogs together like I normally do tonight, but Lakota would not eat. Well, she ate the dog treat I put on top of her food to entice her, but left her regular food. I might make her some burger or chicken with rice if I can't get her to eat later.
I will update in a day or two as her treatment progresses. I have a feeling this is the calm before the storm. For now, I am thankful and relieved that she is doing pretty well. Hopefully the days to come will be just as positive.
Until next time,
Lakota's Mom
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| Lakota resting peacefully at home 4/15/15 |
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