On Aging

This past February, Harvey turned 10.  I really feel Harvey has handled aging and the restrictions that have come along with it very well. The truth is, it's been harder for David and I to watch because we know what he used to love to do, but can no longer do...hiking.  Almost two years ago in May we took the dogs to Jackson Hole for my 30th birthday weekend for some hiking. Little did we know that this would be the downhill spiral of Harvey's health. After a long and strenuous hike up Kings peak, we were resting back at our cabin when for the first time, Harvey got up and yelped, unable to bear weight on his right hind leg. After about a week of restrictions, he was like new again. Phew. Back in Salt Lake, I took Harvey and Norm on a familiar trail in the Wasatch. Little did I know, that would be his last hike.  Afterward he began limping again.  We visited the vet and he was diagnosed with a partial anterior cruciate ligament tear. Surgery with a lengthy 8-12 week recovery period in which he would have to be in a crate was recommended. Furthermore, he would likely need an operation on his left knee sometime in the future. We were heartbroken.  After much back and forth discussion between David and I and many hours of lost sleep, we opted for a conservative approach, antiinflammatories and activity restriction.  Eventually, Harvey did improve, in that he didn't limp, but has since never been able to go on hikes or long walks or else his limp would return. I'll admit, he's still a happy dog! He loves food, playing with his red ball, playing hide and seek, and basking in the sun.  While I'm sure he'd be ecstatic to go on a hike again, it's really me that found it the most difficult to lose our special bond of hiking together.  As expected though, last month, he began having trouble with his left leg and his pain meds were increased.  There is really no graceful way to age. I sometimes think about what he'd be like right now if we had chosen to operate. Maybe better, but probably not 100% and who knows if he would be able to hike. Maybe worse, as he wouldn't understand why we put him through such an experience. There has been no easy answer, but just because we have the ability to do ACL repairs and other medical interventions, does not always mean we should.  I just hope, when the time comes for Harvey to pass away, it will be clear.  Clear that he no longer is playful, no longer enjoys food, no longer smiles, and no longer can walk.  I hope he can pass with some regality, the regality he had the day I met him.