Sky

The strap under the stomach looks awfully narrow. I’d worry about it squeezing the tummy and causing internal damage if it were to hold the dog’s body weight.
 

Atemas

UK Tour Guide
I wouldn’t be looking to supporting her total weight and I think I’d like to talk to our vet before making any decisions.

The past few days, Sky has started licking her right paw in a sustained way (not pedicuring which she has done all her life) - I am assuming this is a pain thing as there is nothing ‘wrong’ with her paw
 

Emily_Babbelhund

Mama Red HOT Pepper
The strap under the stomach looks awfully narrow. I’d worry about it squeezing the tummy and causing internal damage if it were to hold the dog’s body weight.
The straps have a soft covering which you can't see from that photo of Brogan. Since I used it, Ruff Wear has also introduced a Brush Guard which looks quite nice that can be used with any harness. There's also a 'cooler' version. Sorry, I sound like a Ruff Wear sales person (really I'm not :D ), but I really was pleased with how much this (and their boots) helped Brogan enjoy life as a senior pup.

Screenshot 2019-05-12 09.22.39.png
 
I’ve read that licking a paw can indicate pain elsewhere, sometimes pain the back.

So sorry, I can feel your pain in observing your beloved dog aging.
 

Atemas

UK Tour Guide
Sky has been prescribed Tramadol in addition to the pain relief she is already on. The vet inspected her paw thoroughly and concluded there is nothing wrong with it. Said fur could be all ruffled up because of licking, hence the swollen appearance. She thinks (as I do) it is because she is in pain. I know it deep down so we will give the Tramadol (I hate that stuff) a try to see if it helps her. The vet also said the paw licking could become a habit which I instinctively felt and am trying to discourage (not easy). Sky is now 28.6kg which doesn’t surprise me - the vet said it is weighing (excuse the pun) up all the factors in her life and looking for quality. Maybe the Tramadol might make a bit more walking possible. Overall, I think Sky has a quality of life - she is eating fine, toileting fine, still little sparks of the younger dog. Think we are walking a tightrope of management here.
 

Lab_adore

Moderator
Staff member
You are managing this so well Alison, there is nothing more you can do and it sounds like Sky still has a very good quality of life. She is blessed to have you as her Mum
 
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