Tuesday

We have postponed the new feeding regime. Isis had to stay on her own for several hours today and I wouldn’t have been able to supervise her.

This morning, off to Newbrook Farm (RSPCA). For the first time Isis walks into reception on her own four feet. Although the overhead lighting is on, she does not enter fly snapping mode. So far, so good.

And when James, the vet, examines her foot, although she tries unsuccessfully to jerk it from his  hand, she shows no aggression at all. I point out to her that she is not so angelic if I handle her foot!

James is pleased with Hairy One’s progress. After discussion, we conclude that pre-empting the triggers for her self-harming has been the most effective treatment.  James also explains that although the Zylekéne takes a month to achieve its optimum calming effect, Isis may be feeling some benefit already.

The steroids which she has been taking for only six days do not seem to have had any effect on her behaviour so skin irritation is ruled out.

Over the next few days the steroids can be stopped. The Zylekéne will be continued. And, of course, I will continue to focus on avoiding situations which prompt self-harming.

Just before we leave the consulting room, I mention Isis’s blindness. James is astonished. He had not realised that she is blind as she finds her way around so easily. I had explained  that she is a deaf/blind dog on our first visit when we had seen a different vet. I had not thought to mention it to James. We apologise to each other – several times.

But it reminds me how little I think of her lack of sight and hearing. She is a brave little dog. She copes so well and seems so happy most of the time. The self-harming is of much more concern to me.

She is restless while we wait for her prescription so I take her back to the car. But all in all she has been an exemplary patient.

Good girl!

Isis came from the Aeza cat and dog rescue and adoption centre in Aljezur, Portugal. For information about adopting an animal from the centre, contact kerry@aeza.org or  www.dogwatchuk.com