ZOWIE is out of commission - perhaps permanently
Zowie is already qualified for the 2006 National Am, but right now it is an open question whether he will ever run again. Without getting into all of the gory details, through a misdiagnosis of a urinary problem, Zowie's bladder expanded with the collection of over 3 liters of urine. This caused his bladder to lose its ability to empty. So I am stuck with the wonderful task of extracting urine by syringe from his bladder every four hours. At the end of the month, surgery may be undertaken in an effort to restore his ability to pee. That surgery will result in Zowie being neutered. If it is not successful, then Zowie will likely never pee normally again.
What a bummer!
Hey Ted,
It’s terribly sad to read this news. I am hoping for the best possible outcome for both of you.
AH
Anthony Heath (Email) - 15 03 06 - 04:50
Anthony
Thanks for the kind thoughts. Zowie has been a trooper. When I am able to work at home, he sleeps on my feet under the desk. When I have to go into the office, he sleeps in the back of the Expedition. I have drain his bladder by syringe every four hours, which has really chewed up my sleep. And the catheter has caused him to get multiple infections. And because his catheter is exposed and could be easily yanked out, I have to keep a pretty close eye on him.
It is all very disappointing and frustrating. He was running well at the end of last year, and had already qualified for the National Am, so I was looking forward to a productive 2006 season.
But, right now, I would settle for his being able to pee.
We’ll see happens.
Ted - 15 03 06 - 06:12
Ted,
Sorry to read about this. I can’t imagine how disappointing and frustrated you must be.
It reminds me to appreciate every retrieve and every healthy day.
Hoping for the best,
Jeff T.
Jeff Telander (Email) - 20 04 06 - 17:48