Unplain Jane

Dear Dog Lady,

My Jane, a 12-year-old Jack Russell terrier, is deaf and blind. But she still enjoys life. When we go outside, her nose becomes her eyes and ears. Jane can sniff around the world for hours. Indoors, she plays with the cat.

My problem comes when my husband, daughter or I leave Jane alone. I’ve often driven up to the house to hear Jane howling, which makes me feel awful.

Also, when I go out with my dog, we are the object of pitying looks from people. Once, I was shocked when a man asked me why I was keeping her alive. To me, it’s not an issue. I’m sticking with Jane until she lets me know she’s done. What’s the harm?

Lucy, Bend, ORE.

Lucy, your sweet baby Jane may be deaf but she’s not dumb. She’s blind to the rudeness of strangers. Whenever we take our dogs out in public, the animals become magnets for comments – both good and bad. A man I know had an overweight Scottie who was the target of snide fat remarks wherever they roamed. Jane is a different object of lurid public fascination, but only you notice.

Pay the back-seat euthenists no heed. Jane is not on life support. As long as she still savors the outdoor smell-fest and the indoor pleasures of home, Jane remains very much among the living. If she loses control of bodily functions or exhibits other signs of physical or mental disassembly, you will have to look into your soul about the best choices for your disabled terrier. Until then, enjoy her company.

Perhaps her solitary howling is a signal of some distress, so leave out redolent chewies – bully sticks or kong toys stuffed with peanut butter – when you go out. Jane’s senses of smell and taste still distract her and she might find some diversion in hunting down yummy stuff. Remember not to make any fuss when you leave or enter the house so venerable Jane will feel less anxiety in your comings and goings.

Posted by Dog Lady at June 3, 2005 08:41 PM