Diapers, Diapers, Diapers! (Part 1): Caring for a Newborn and a Senior Dog at the Same Time

By: Julie, The Muttly crew

Our senior dog-son Teddy lost control of his “plumbing” 18 months ago. He suddenly could not pee on his own. We were having a difficult time helping him relieve himself. He became excessively thirsty all the time. Then, last spring his back started to bother him. We found out later he probably had slipped discs. As expected by any seasoned dog parent, Teddy’s comfort, our lifestyle and freedom were instantly and greatly compromised. The daily tasks amount to so much more than making sure Teddy can just relieve himself.  Our everyday to-dos include 8 doggy diaper changes and “walks.” I will tell you later in this series why “walks” don’t really mean the true exercise of walking together with our furry child. We also live in a condo complex and take an elevator downstairs each and usually ride with someone who asks what is wrong with Teddy. There is just not enough time during the elevator ride to explain his issues or deal with ridiculous questions such as have we taken him to a vet. There are multiple clean-ups, an increasing pile of veterinarian, medication, dog walker, cleaning supply, diaper and wee-wee pad bills, natural and holistic research and experiments.  Teddy has been to 4 different veterinarian offices and 1 pet rehab facility in less than 2 years with no diagnosis for the underlying cause. The poor guy has endured pain, UTIs, many exams, x-rays, catheterizations, blood tests, medication side effects and the anxiety he feels each time he has an accident. And then there is the added responsibility, stress and guilt for my husband and me. We feel so bad for Teddy, and also, for ourselves. More expenses, more time spent on his care, less time for work and no shot for us both simultaneously being able to leave home at the same time for an extended period of time. Parenting styles either gelling or conflicting with breaking points inevitable. And while we are still trying to get a grasp on how to help Teddy without losing it, we learn we are pregnant!