Goodbye Tiki

It is with great sadness and heart ache that I write what is to be the final post to this blog.

Yesterday I had to return Tiki to the breeder.  It was a difficult choice to make but we all believe it will have the best possible outcome for Tiki.  It's because I love her so much and care for her that I had to let her go.


My dear Tiki my place feels empty without you.  You will be missed.  You were the light of my life.

Tiki's Health

The beginning of the year has not been a good one for my little Tiki.  She had to stay at the Vet for 4 days and given IVs because of vomiting. The testing revealed a problem with her liver.  Now that she is being treated with liver enzymes, special food and supplements, she seems to be thriving and doing well. She has gained most of the weight back that she lost while ill. I was quite worried about her and  I am still worried about her health.  The vet is going to do another blood test next week to see how she is doing.

The last visit to the vet revealed that she has ingrown eye lashes on both the upper lower eye lids.  She also has a lump on her side as well, the vet will remove the lump when he does the eye surgery.  She will have to wear a collar again.  This time I have ordered a special deluxe more comfortable collar for Tiki.

The insurance is reluctant to pay the claim because we are unable to obtain medical history from the previous vet.  While I understand the company's point of view, it is problem for both the company  and me.  I am more interested in getting previous medical history so the vet may better treat her.

She still is a delight to me and I love to have her here with me.  I am greeted  at the door with much excitement when I arrive home,while Lacey remains indifferent to my arrival  Although Tiki can be stubborn at times when we are walking, for the most part she is very eager to get the exercise.  She still uses the pad inside for the potty but  she also has some successes outside more  often than earlier. She is learning to sit and wait and also to shake a paw.  She does better at those commands when I have a treat in hand.  She is so cute when she first sees the treat, dancing around on her hind legs.


After these setbacks, I expect that Tiki will remain healthy and continue to thrive.

Mooning with the Kong Ball

 Today I found the ultimate Kong Toy, I just hope it doesn't drive Tiki crazy.  With just a few treats rattling around inside, she has so much fun rolling the odd shaped ball around the room.  Notice that the sofa has been put down in the hide-a-bed position for her project. I am having a good time watching her play.  Sometimes I've had to crawl around and retrieve the ball from under the ottoman or other furniture.

Fashion Plate!

Tiki received a gift yesterday from Helen.
.Doesn't she look cute?
 I'm glad she was wearing something since it was colder outside than it looked.
She made it very clear that twice with the sweater was enough for her,  Just like babies, she does not like putting anything over her head. Too bad, the sweater was so pretty.  We passed it on to Helen's little Charlotte.
Today, we met Lucy.  I think they will make good playmates.  Lucy's mom said that that park area is full of dogs in the summer.   I can hardly wait!
The walking is going much better now that I am using her collar with the leash instead of the harness.  I am able to have her walk beside me most of the time. She isn't pulling very much at all.
It is so cute when she comes back home from her walk she runs around the living at max speed and then rolls around on the rug.  She is laying down, recuperating for all that action now.
Update on the training...sometimes she goes outside and sometimes on my bedroom carpet but mostly we are still using the pads. "Nature's Miracle" has become my best friend.  Any tips on training an older Bichon, 3 years will be appreciated.

My other companion

T

Meet Lacey aka 'Critter'.  We share Lacey's home with her.  Since Tiki has joined our family Lacey has been dethroned. Five weeks later she is still greeting Tiki with a loud hssss or a baritone growl.  Tiki doesn't react but I think she feels rather sad that they are not good friends.
Lacey will be 17 in April and was born in my place.  So I've had her since birth and I know she resents this "furry intruder" in her space.
My hope is that one day soon Lacey will allow Tiki into her fold and they will become the best of friends. 
Margo, ever the peacemaker, wanting everyone happy.

Not Just Another Sofa

I couldn't resist this sofa bed for my little Tiki.  It fits in so well with the living room decor!

We went for a short walk so Tiki could dip her paw in the snow.  We both decided that the dry sidewalk was the best place to be walking.

The other day we had a standoff over the sweater of many colours.   Tiki held her ground not budging an inch.  I said no sweater, then no walk.  Guess who won?  I didn't like the design of the sweater and I can see why Tiki does not want a sweater pulled over her head.  Maybe I should start making doggie coats, sweaters and whatever.  I do, however think Tiki does need some boots.

A girl has gotta have new clothes

Today Tiki sported her new sweater on our winter outing.  We both like the bright colourful  sweater.  The design is a poor one as we discovered when putting it on Tiki.  It really should have had a Velcro closing, when will those non dog designers get it right?
Tiki met another friend "Boss", who looked somewhat like a certain small breed which I can't spell.  The owner wasn't quite sure what the mix breed his dog is.  The owner of Boss said he sent away for genetic testing to truly discover the mix in the breed.  The things us pet owners will do!

SPA Day

Tiki went to the groomer today.
Doesn't she look pretty?  We think so.  She even received a special little neck scarf to wear.  She is asleep now.  A very tiring experience.  Good reports, she tolerated the cutting, shampooing and combing/brushing really well.

Tiki's 3rd Birthday Today

Today has been a very special
day indeed.  It is Tiki's 3rd Birthday, her first in her new home.
She celebrated with two long walks.  One walk was with her buddy, uncle Dave.  Uncle Dave made this card/video.  I hope it works ok.

Christmas Look-a-likes

Pictured here is Tiki and I displaying our matching snuggies that we received from my daughter and grandchildren.  Tiki is much more photogenic than I.

We had 2 Christmas dinners at our place this year.  Christmas eve was dinner with family and Christmas day was with friends.

Both my family and my friends commented how well behaved Tiki is and how bonded we are already.

Today we had our first training session with our personal Trainer.  We went through how to work together with some basic commands, sit, lay down and come.  We then went for a walk together.  First the trainer, showing me how the leash should be held and how the walk should look.  Then it was my turn, my trainer guided me  how to walk together.
with Tiki.

Tiki was on her own for a few hours today.  When I returned, it looked as though she may have been on the dining table or at least tugged on the table cloth.  She  also threw up.  I called my trainer to ask if she was doing this because of stress.  It was most likely a case of overeating  but I will keep a watchful eye on her and call the vet if necessary.  She is precious to me and I want to do the best I can by her.

Merry Christmas Everyone

While cooking dinner for my family, my cat, Lacey ,and Tiki are on their best behaviour.  So far neither of my furry companions have gone for the appetizers on the table.

There will be some new people
for Tiki to meet today as well as tomorrow's dinner.

I seized the moment for a photo shoot.  Lacey would never have allowed for such carrying on.

From our house to yours, Merry Christmas.  Our hope is for peace  to you all.

Siblings Sharing?

Today I bought a new pet bed. bed  But whose bed is it?  My girls look like they may be sharing, the beginning of a loving relationship?

I think we are having some success with Tiki being left alone.  I was out yesterday for 1 hour and the place was still intact and today I was away 2 hours and the same result.  I've been told to not make a fuss about leaving or arriving home.  Well Tiki is very smart.   She knows when I get my purse or shoes, that I'm going out.

I'm trying to teach her "off" when she jumps up excitedly.
I've been told by a few reliable people that her separation anxiety is linked to my not letting Tiki know who is in charge. She just needs to know what is expected of her and then she will comply plus feel more secure.

Sunday we are going to have a lesson with our trainer.  Wish us luck.

Travelling Tiki

Tiki has been on the go for the last few days thanks to our cart on wheels.
On Thursday she came to the Doctor's office with me and of course she was warmly welcomed and made a fuss over.
Thursday afternoon she went to my support group.  She sat on my lap for quite awhile, listening very intently to the discussion then she stayed on leash exploring what was around her. Afterward, she and my friend went for a nice long walk.
We have been back to the pet store once again.  This time along with treats and chews, I purchased a portable water bowl.
My good friend took me to buy groceries and while I shopped, he walked Tiki.
Today we went to a craft class where we worked with wool.  For the first part she was totally intrigued with the wool and all the others taking part in the class. 
Wherever Tiki goes she is warmly welcomed.  She is truly a smile  ambassador.  One can't help but smile when she is smiling at you.
Tiki has already brought me much joy in the short time she has come to live with me.

Cone Head

I suppose Tiki's sense of trust towards me went down a few notches today.  I had her at the vet today for a recheck on her stitches and because I had  a worry about  her coughing a little at night.  While at the vet, the assistant tried putting the cone on Tiki again.  The assistant was successful in getting the cone on but Tiki freaked, thrashed around and tried to remove the cone.  I had to ask them to remove the cone.  It was too painful to see the distress it caused her.

When we arrived at home she refused to get out of the carrier.  I couldn't even lure her out with treats.  I dropped a few a little distance away from the carrier and she managed to keep the lower half of her body inside the carrier as she stretched out to retrieve the treats.  What finally got her to move about 45 minutes later, was asking her is she wanted to go for a walk.  Stubborn, willful and smart, that's my gal.

Now, for the past 2 hours, she has been camped out in the kitchen with the occasional whimpering all because I gave Lacey and Tiki a bit of cheese.  Every once in a while, I catch her on her hind legs trying to see what is on the counter.

As for the vet visit itself, she has antibiotics for possible infection since there is some redness near part of the stitches.  Tiki had already been given a shot for kennel cough but we have some medication for the nighttime coughing. While at the vet, I purchased another package of pill  pockets, which doesn't always fool her, unless I give her a couple without any pills as a chaser.

Left at the scene of the crime/Battle of wills

Yesterday Tiki decided she wanted to have a go at the couch.  I had a shower and found her curled up on my red blanket.  It looked rather Christmassy and a possible kodak moment but I told her to get off.  Of course she didn't respond right away but eventually got down with my help.  I left the room on another occasion and she was on the couch  again.  Found at the scene of the crime, was one of her beef? chews.  Without giving it very much aforethought, I was eating veggies and dip and I left it on the couch .  I went over to the computer and glanced to my right and there she was eating my dip!!
It is a tough decision what to do.  I have been successful on keeping my cat off my newly upholstered couch since I moved.  I would like to cuddle Tiki which I am doing but I may be giving her mixed messages.
  Tiki is not a shedder but my cat sheds constantly.  I don't want to favour one over the other.  Lacey has already had her nose out of joint since Tiki arrived. 

Last night, Tiki was litterly digging in heels during what became a short walk and some carrying. It was strange because she got her usual excited dance when I suggested we go for a walk.For some reason she was difficult to  move along and I didn't want to hurt her so I ended up picking her up and carrying her for awhile. She is far  too heavy at 12.4 pounds to hold with my left arm and use my cane on the right side.
Today, I am happy to report she walked eagerly with her usual gusto.  We met 4 more dogs today.  Mougol, Coby, Tiko? and ?  I'm going to need to bring a pen and paper to remember all the dogs' names!  Of course, I know none of the dog owners day.  
Here I was outside without any makeup, my hair not combed and I'm talking to these guys. Also standing there outside Starbucks was Mr "reader/writer" clutching a sci fi book.  Great impression!  The good news is that Mougol's owner offered to watch Tiki if I wanted to go and get a coffee.  I couldn't go inside Starbucks today but another time, I'll make sure I have some money or my Starbucks Card.

Tiki Loves To Go Out

Tiki and I went for a walk this morning.  We passed Starbucks, so on the way back, I took her to the window and one of the Baristas saw us and waved.  I wonder if she noticed the longing in my eyes for that cuppa.  Sigh, soon this watchdogging will pass! 

When we arrived home from our walk and coat and leash was off, Tiki immediately jumped into the wheeled cart I take her on the bus with.  She is a real outdoors type.






!

Shopping Day

Tiki went shopping for a raincoat and this what we came up with.  Pretty stylish, don't you think?

We also bought some more toys looking for one that would captivate her attention.  No go.  This dog needs to taught how to play with toys!

Small Successes Lead to Big Steps

Tiki has had a successful few days. Tiki is now using  the pad to do her business and pee.   She loves the praise and treats she gets for doing so well.  Such a good girl, I tell her.  Now how do I get her to go outside?  What I'm wondering is should I take the "pad" with us on our walk?

She loves her walk although she stops frequently and I have pull on the leash to get her to move.  She has such a cute walk with her fur on her head blowing in the breeze.
 Today we plan to go to the pet store to buy her a new coat and perhaps a shirt.  The cute pink coat is not very waterproof.  I should have chosen the ugly yellow one but I went for style rather than practically.

Since I am still unable to put the cone on Tiki and keep it on, I am still staying close to home.  The vet said perhaps a shirt or they can order me a collar like a neck brace.  I really don't want to go that route and trying to put the cone on Tiki again is not something I want to put her though.I just have to keep a real close eye on her so she doesn't lick and pull out her stitches from surgery.

What I need is a dog watcher so I can get some groceries next week.  Any volunteers?

Sleeping Clown/Acrobat

I couldn't resist taking this picture.  She is sleeping on her back.  I'm so happy she drank out of the water spout on the left.
I called the vet and he said not to worry about drinking and eating for a few days as it takes awhile to get over the affects of antiseptic.  She definitely should not lick her stitches.  If she removes them she will have to go under antiseptic again to redo them.  I am watching her with both eyes.  I will have to get that cone on her at some point and possibly keep it on for 10 days to 2 weeks.


Dave just dropped off the crate because it is going to be exchanged for a larger one when the pet store delivers it this afternoon.  When Dave came to the door, Tiki perked right up and went over to where  he was standing and stayed near him wagging her tail, a good sign we think.

Tiki is now laying beside me as I finish this post. Dave, bless his heart has gone to get me a Starbucks.

Tiki's Surgery

Tiki had her surgery for spaying yesterday and they also discovered an umbilical hernia, plus her ears were blocked so they were cleaned as well.

This morning she is still not herself.It took a lot of coaxing to get her out of her crate this morning.

    We tried to go outside, that did not work. She stood by the door for 10 minutes then finally layed down there.  When I checked her, the good news is she peed on her pad!!.   Well that called for a treat and praise!!  She did eat 4 little treats.  She still did not want water even when I tried wetting her mouth.  I held her for awhile the took her near the crate and she just went in and layed down at the back of it.

I still haven't tried the liquid medicine for inflammation.  Once she starts to drink, I will try.  She didn't and wouldn't take the de-worming liquid medication on Sunday so we now have pills for that which I will use after she recovers from her surgery.

I will also have to watch her carefully since she did not take to the cone.  She tore it off when we tried putting on last night.


If it wasn't for good friends like Dave and Betty Mae for all their help and support, I don't know how I could cope with this alone.