Zeus's Story

Health

ZEUS'S STORY - Updated 09-01-07

Zeus is one of Shirley's rescue Afghan's and is a very much loved boy but he escaped one day and was involved in a car accident. This is what happened and we will update his page as he progresses. Zeus can also be found in the rescue section of the website HERE

Please click thumbnails

Shirley received the following updates from Zeus owner

Dear Shirley & Terry, Thank you so much for Zeus’s card – it has joined his growing number of get well wishes! Also glad to hear you now have your new email account sorted out so I can endeavour to keep you updated – this update will be slightly lengthy as quite a lot has been happening since we were last in contact. Today is strangely quiet and empty in the study (and indeed the whole house) – which has been doubling as Zeus’s “infirmary”, as he is once more away at the Rowe Veterinary Hospital in Bristol (but don’t panic – the overall news is positive).

Firstly an update on Pooch’s medical progress:

Zeus’s progress appeared good following the scare of the infection in his left leg in mid March and subsequent removal of 2 small sequestras (bone fragments dislodged from blood supply and becoming infected) and different antibiotics for 2 weeks, although on the Thursday before Easter, we did rush him back to our vet for a check as we were concerned there was some heat in the vicinity of the wound. Our vet was happy with the leg and did not think there was anything untoward but gave us some antibiotics as a standby for the Easter period to use if anything flared up.

Zeus’s follow-up appointment with the specialist was on 25/4 and by then we were feeling quite positive about progress. All dressings long gone, hair starting to grow back and Zeus was walking quite well, albeit obviously favouring the right leg. As a result, we were quite devastated by the news both on arrival and post X-ray. He had indeed still got an infection in his left leg and should have been kept on antibiotics for at least a month after it had been identified. It was leading to osteomyelitis – not only meaning that healing was not progressing but that bone tissue was becoming inflamed and infected which would eventually lead to it being cut off from the blood supply and dying. Given the splintering on this fracture – this news was pretty dire. Mark (Mark Owen – orthopaedic specialist dealing with Zeus) immediately put him on a month’s course of Antirobe antibiotics and we were also to continue with Metacam for pain.

Needless to say the following 4 weeks until re-X-ray were “nail-biting” to say the least. Onset of osteomyelitis certainly cast its shadow over hopes of recovery or certainly recovery with all 4 legs! But we did our best to be positive and to take positive action. Usually I am the first to research herbal treatments in conjunction with conventional medicine but ironically hadn’t thought of herbs in this situation. Now I pulled out my various books, including a book I was given in the 70’s by Avril White no long before she died: Juliette de Baircali Levy “The Complete Herbal Book for the Dog”, which you probably know of or have – it really is a very useful book which I have often used and is certainly well thumbed. In addition to the obvious addition of garlic for general healing and to help combat the infection – which I often use, the book recommended Comfrey – also recommended in other herbal books. An old name for Comfrey is "knit bone" and it appears well acclaimed for these properties in herbal books over the ages. Apparently a substance called allantoin is largely responsible to its bone-knitting properties.

After drawing a blank at local chemists (only found Comfrey ointment), I called a neighbour in the village - Kit and her husband have been heavily involved in wildlife research etc and over the last 34 years have been recreating the gardens at their Jacobean house with a heavy emphasis on natural/wildlife friendly. Apparently Comfrey is great for bumble bees! Zeus was immediately donated a large “bouquet” and some plants to grow on and since then has been having 2-3 large leaves copped in his food twice a day and for good measure we are adding 1/3 clove of garlic to the equation daily.

He returned to the hospital 25/5 for re-X-ray and this time the news was more encouraging, albeit still “good news and bad news”. Right leg well on the way to being completely healed – the internal supports will remain in place so no further work will be required on that leg. The infection in the left leg had responded to treatment and healing was progressing, albeit much more slowly and, due to the effects of the infection, the internal supports would have to be removed as they were loosening and impeding further healing. There was still slight infection present, which could not be eradicated until the supports had been removed and there was evidence of one or more sequestras, which would also have to be removed to enable the healthy bone to fully knit. The appointment was set for yesterday 9/6 for the operation.

Our friend Sheila, who has been an absolute lifeline support throughout, took Zeus and I to the hospital as my car remains totally impractical for Pooch with infirmity and Jasper was scheduled on an emergency job. It says something for both Zeus and the hospital that he still walks in happily and even wagging his tail. Mark (the specialist) was pleased with his overall progress and, after carefully checking how he walked out in the car park (not easy as there had obviously been a few bitches in season around!), decided that the planned procedure could go ahead. His overall mobility was important as, having removed the internal supports, he will be fitted with an external “fixator”/cage to provide external support to the break during the final healing process. If there had been any doubts about his mobility and hence his ability to cope with this, they could not have proceeded with the operation.

He showed us the last X-rays, which showed clearly where the internal support was loosening and also identified quite a large sequestrum – which could also not be removed without removing the internal support plate. At 8pm last night – the phone call we had been waiting for: the operation had gone very well and Zeus was doing fine. The large sequestrum, which had been visible on the last X-rays was not as obvious when they actually operated but they had removed a certain amount of suspect bone tissue, and then drilled and bone grafted and put in a drain to allow drainage of any pus from the remaining infection. He will have to stay in hospital until they are happy that the drain can be removed but hopefully we can bring him home late tomorrow (Sunday) or Monday. Meanwhile they have his file clearly marked that Afghans do not appreciate veterinary post-op diets but do appreciate fresh chicken as an alternative invalid meal!!

He will have to have external bandaging removed mid next week, after which the leg is to remain open so that it is possible to check for any weepage. The initial cage is quite rigid to ensure against any movement at the fracture site but will be changed for a less rigid support after 3-4 weeks, to encourage increased blood flow in the bone. Hopefully, fingers crossed, 8 weeks should see full recovery.

Unfortunately, this means effectively returning to “Stage 1” again on Zeus’s return = confinement to playpen and very limited exercise 3 times a day for pee/poo only. Poor Zeus – just as he was appreciating greater freedom again! Ironically, Sheila had just supplied us with some sheep hurdles, which we have erected along the top of the wall on our back patio so that Zeus could have freedom of this area at least – the patio is on 2 levels and whilst he was okay to negotiate the two steps up and down, being an Afghan, his normal route in the past was simply to “ping” the wall – obviously not good with 2 broken legs! Still they can remain in place ready for later.

So – with the medical saga up to date – how has Zeus been coping generally!

What can I say – he really has been a star throughout! Separately I will send photos, including some taken this Wednesday before his return for the follow-up operatio. Remembering the look in his eyes when we collected him 3 years ago, which clearly said “I don’t trust humans and if you do something I don’t like I may bite you!”, the incredible trust he has shown throughout this whole dreadful experience has been completely overwhelming. Despite times when he has obviously been in awful pain – not least at the time of the accident itself, Zeus has shown such patience, trust and resilience. There have been days when he has clearly been down and frustrated, when he has struggled to do things “normally” and found he can’t – but he has never shown any sign of giving up the fight, simply remained quiet and resting until he felt strong enough to try again! And even then, always managing a tail wag!

However, most of the time he has been perky and generally happy and it wasn’t long after the first operation, that he found voice again for our normal “group howl” on returning home. Just as well we don’t have neighbours immediately adjacent or they would probably wonder what was going on but we usually sit and “bay to the moon” for a few minutes followed by lots of cuddles!

Tablets down the throat, followed by squirt of painkiller are accepted as a “necessary evil” with the expectation of something more palatable to follow – a couple of thick cut slices of Lidl’s salami is definitely numero-uno! Walks on the lead in his own garden are not exactly his favoured option but again accepted together with lack of his usual freedom to “patrol” the house at will (playpen is currently dismantled into sections to provide barricades at doorways and staircase!). Visitors are greeted with great enthusiasm – and he has received a steady flow of “his own” visitors along with cards!

His appetite has remained very good throughout recovery and he has continued to be spoilt with a mixture of fresh chicken along with his usual tripe and butchers mince (Tesco’s do a good deal on 2 fresh chickens for £5!). As long as the comfrey is served chopped with meat, he happily polishes off every last morsel – and often looks for more! He even still loves his trips in the car, despite the fact that most of those recently have been to the vets and that it entails being lifted in and out – rather demeaning for an Afghan! He has had the odd trip to visit friends – eg. to the farm – not least to give him some variety of location as, like humans, dogs must get incredibly bored and frustrated being confined to the same “walls”. His has even made a couple of visits to the local pubs when not busy to say hello to some of his well-wishers.

Recently, as his recovery has progressed, he has been enjoying a little greater freedom when we are at home so that he can join us in the kitchen in mornings and evenings and wander around a little more at will, with the exception of the lounge unless supervised in case he pings on and off sofas! We also returned his sofa to the study a few weeks ago, albeit without its cushions (so it is very low) and he has appreciated being able to recline on that again and not just be restricted to the (very comfortable) duvet in the corner by my desk!

In the last few weeks, as he has regained strength and confidence, we have had to become increasingly vigilant as he has been “pushing the boundaries”: on one occasion we nearly had heart failure when I went to bed early really tired, only to be woken up almost immediately by movement in the bedroom – it was Zeus! Jasper had left the stair-guard down while he was taking some clean laundry upstairs and Zeus spotted the opportunity! Fortunately no harm done and he had a much appreciated cuddle on the bed for ¼ of an hour before Jasper carefully and very very slowly walked him downstairs. Most recently, since summer has finally arrived, the biggest problem has been the occasional fly! One of Zeus’s favoured summer pastimes is trying to catch them and he doesn’t understand that dog with broken legs can’t launch himself into the air snapping at flies! We must have gone through a full container of fly spray in the last week alone, zapping every fly spotted entering the cottage!

A few weeks ago, when he was just at the stage of being able to manage a short 5 minute walk – and thoroughly appreciating it – his memory of the accident came back when a friend drove past and gave a friendly toot of the horn. This is now something we will have to work on gradually. He is totally unwilling to be walked alongside the road and really took fright at any passing cars, although doesn’t appear to be too bothered with cars in other places – eg. in the vet’s car park. To begin with, he wouldn’t even go up to our gates but he has gradually overcome this fear (too inquisitive on who might be going by!) and a few days ago came out with me on the lead to the outside of the gates to catch to a neighbour quite happily. Some people have said that this fear could be a good thing but I have to disagree: a healthy respect for traffic is certainly good, but fear and worst still “blind terror” is potentially more dangerous than no fear at all. Anyway, I’m sure we can gradually overcome this problem once he is properly mobile again.

Conclusion:

I think that about covers update. Jasper and I are “bearing up” as one must! Life continues are its usual hectic pace but much squeezed or postponed to allow plenty of time for nursing Pooch. In addition to various photos, I will also send copy of newspaper photo (just received) – I don’t have a copy of the one used on the front cover other than the one I scanned off the newspaper itself so will send the newspaper scans as well. The reporter wants to do a follow up article so I have suggested she may like to do a short “interim” article sometime soon but leave a full follow-up (hopefully happy outcome) one until the local Exemption Dog Show in September, which we certainly hope Zeus will attend and, if recovered, challenge for the Rescue and Best Local Dog classes. We are also going to look at donating a trophy to the show for the Best Rescue and call it Zeus’s trophy.

PS: Have just phoned the hospital to check on Zeus – he has had a comfortable night but is still drowsy and hasn’t wanted anything to eat yet but as he was on morphine so probably to be expected (actually under the circumstances I would have been surprised if he had wanted to eat). He is now on normal painkiller and they will be changing dressings a little later. We are to phone back tomorrow lunchtime to check on progress.

Update 21st June 06 - Zeus has turned the corner and is very bright in himself and eating well. He is walking well on both legs and is becoming increasingly frustrated at being confined to a lead!

Update 24th July 06 - Zeus is doing well:-)

Dear Shirley, It is already a while since Zeus’s 2nd operation on his left leg on 9 June, when he had a bone graft, the internal supports removed and replaced by an external fixator – where does the time go (although for Zeus it can’t go fast enough until a full recovery!)? At least now all the signs are looking positive.

Zeus came home on Monday afternoon 12 June sporting a bright pink teddy bear bandage to cover the fixator – very pleased to be home again and in reasonable spirits, although quite lethargic for a few days – hardly surprising after another complicated operation. Nevertheless, he was immediately walking much better although tender on his leg and his shoulder (where the bone had been taken for the graft). He had the dressing changed by our vet’s later in the week and all was looking well so after a couple of days, I removed the dressing completely to leave the leg open – the surgery was incredibly neat and there were no signs of any discharge around the pins.

It took a little getting used to the sight of the fixator (a little “toe-curling” to say the least) but Zeus was unfazed. The biggest problem was that he had to have an Elizabethan collar on, which he really doesn’t like, and with the rising temperatures must have also been quite uncomfortable, but other than for his very short walks in the garden, we couldn’t risk leaving it off as he started to worry at the pins.

The following week leading up to the removal of the stitches gave some cause for concern as the entry points around the top pins started to weep and show signs of inflammation. The vet on duty at our practice took the decision to X-ray at the same time as removing his staples and checking the fixator on Friday 23/6. This proved to be the latest unnecessary aggravation as she didn’t bother to consult with Mark in Bristol, was not available to show us the X-ray on collection and left a message to be relayed by the veterinary nurse on collection was that everything appeared okay – just continue to monitor. I was also told it was up to me to interface with Mark! Needless to say I was not at all happy and sent an email to Mark together with some close up photos.

The whole thing turned out to be a storm in a teacup as it was subsequently confirmed by Mark and by 2 of the other vets at our own practice, that this was quite normal as the pins pass through a length of soft tissue. Simple hygiene measures are quite sufficient. Our senior vet also assured me that he would personally ensure there was direct liaison with Mark in the future. So – the good news was that our concerns had been unnecessary but we could certainly have done without the attitude of the other vet (and indeed the charge for a further X-ray which was also quite unnecessary)!

Anyway, since then the inflammation has abated and before the end of June we were able to remove the Elizabethan collar completely – much to Zeus’s delight! By the time of his next check up, 6 July, he was walking confidently on his left leg and no longer “favouring” it in any way – albeit that exercise remained strictly limited to short walks on the lead in the garden. He returned to Rowe Veterinary Hospital on 13 July for re-X-ray and Mark was pleased with progress and has removed the vertical support from the outside of the leg to allow greater flexion, which should in turn help to promote bone growth. He is going back there again on 16th August, when it may finally be possible to remove the fixator completely – fingers, toes and everything else possible will be well and truly crossed!!

Since his last visit to Bristol, we have gradually given him a little more freedom around the house – albeit with the greatest of care that he does not attempt stairs or anything! He is now off antibiotics and pain-killers completely and showing no adverse reactions. He did actually manage to negotiate the stairs as well a couple of weeks back when we had a bad thunderstorm (he’s always been an “Woos” about thunder!) I woke up not because of the thunder but a big wet nose in my face. Needless to say I leapt out of bed and closed the door fully so he couldn’t go back down on his own. A very grateful Pooch then climbed onto the bed between us and snuggled down for the rest of the night. The following morning I walked him back down on the lead very very slowly – one step at a time!

Meanwhile, over the last couple of weeks Sheila’s sheep hurdles have come into their own as we are now letting him mooch around the back patio unrestrained when we are at home. It took a few days for it to really sink in that he could actually walk in and out of the back door after so long being taken out on a lead through the front door! He is now really enjoying being able to wander out and lie in the fresh air, especially in the mornings before it gets too hot. When we go out he is also having a little more freedom with the Rose & Crown’s playpen dismantled into sections to prevent access to some of the rooms and the stairs, but allowing him the freedom of the hall, study, kitchen and utility. Fortunately (other than the occasional thought of fly chasing) he is always pretty laid back around the house and the greater freedom is definitely a big bonus for his overall well-being.

He is treated as a real star on his visits to the vets in Cheltenham and the hospital in Bristol because, despite all that he has been through, he remains such a happy hound – even wags his tail and makes a fuss of Mark when we go to the hospital (although – despite any wooziness / after effects from anaesthetic – he pulls like at train en route back to the car!! You would also think that by now, with 90% of his car journeys being to vets, that he would be reluctant to go anywhere in a car – but quite the contrary – I have to be well and truly ready to lift him in because otherwise, he would be jumping in unassisted!

He continues to have quite frequent visitors to see how he is doing and laps up the attention. He also continues to be “the darling” of our bed and breakfast guests and quite a few, including a lovely American family and several Australians, have gone off complete with the website details to check for updates on his progress. On that subject – the website is great and I do hope some of Zeus’s story and trials and tribulations will provide help to others in the future.

I’m afraid he is rather a “shorn Afghan” at the moment as we still can’t bath him and with the heat, I decided he would be much more comfortable with a “close clip”!!

Carole & Jasper, Zeus (Super Pooch or maybe now Bionic Pooch!), Mystique (Donut – horse) and Bessie (Munchkin – Shetland)

Zeus with the pins in

Finally Zeus with pins removed and on the way to recovery

Update 26th August 2006

Finally – the news and photos we have been praying for over these long months! Nearly 6 long months in fact!

As I related briefly on the phone, Zeus returned to Rowe Veterinary Hospital on 16th August for re-X-ray and, depending on the results, removal of the fixator. We were very hopeful and fairly certain that all the signs were positive but still had all fingers and toes crossed after the roller-coaster of the preceding months BUT this time our prayers have been answered – the fracture has finally knitted and the fixator has been removed! He returned home later that day, this time sporting a bright green dressing with “Smileys” on it. This was removed by our local vet 2 days later, revealing very clean, very small wounds, where the pins had passed through the bone and by now these are hardly even discernable.

The month preceding this last operation, Zeus had the benefit of “in-house veterinary care” as we had a New Zealand and an Australian vet staying for bed and breakfast off and on during the period. Both took great interest in his progress and will be visiting your web-site for updates (in fact many recent bed and breakfast visitors have departed with the website address)! They had also been very encouraging but obviously, until X-rays confirmed the good news, we couldn’t be totally sure and of course, Zeus has been such a patient and brave pooch throughout that it has not always been possible to assess the extent of internal healing.

The first couple of days following the latest procedure, Zeus was fairly lethargic / sleepy – not surprising after another dose of anaesthetic but, by the weekend, he was well recovered and in good spirits and clearly delighted to be “free” of the fixator and walking out well. The faithful play-pen has now been dismantled and awaiting return to our kind friends, Sue and Eric, at the Rose and Crown. It was used one final time on Sunday during Jasper’s 60th birthday party to restrict Zeus to half of the utility room during the busiest period – however the miffed pooch did not spend very much time in confinement even then as there was no shortage of volunteers – especially a faithful following of friends children - to walk him around the house and garden on the lead! And what better birthday present for Jasper than Zeus’s recovery.

Also washed and ready for return is the soft Elizabethan collar. We were told that he may need a collar for the first few days after the op but this hasn’t been necessary either before or after removal of the dressing. He remains on “house arrest” (as appropriately described in our detailed instruction sheet from the hospital!) – i.e. must not be allowed loose in the garden and we have to keep reminding him now “No Tiggers allowed” (he’s getting his bounce back!). Fortunately (and thanks to Sheila’s sheep hurdles) he can at least roam free on the patio and hopefully, after 8 weeks, he will be able to run on the lawn again. Unfortunately the latter is definitely out of bounds unless on the lead in the meantime as he delights in doing at least one circuit at high speed looking for squirrels and rabbits!

Meanwhile, we have had this last week off work as a short summer holiday and have started his new exercise regime: for the first 2 weeks exercise can be increased to 15-20 minutes, 2-3 times a day, then up to 30 minutes and between 6 and 8 weeks lead exercise can be increased to 45 minutes 2 times a day. After 8 weeks, providing 45 minutes of walking exercise is maintained without encountering any problems, he can start to walk off the lead. He will be so pleased to be able to run around his garden again!

I am attaching 2 photos taken on Monday afternoon (21/8) at the Golden Valley – an idyllic common in the foothills of the Malverns about 5 miles away – which has always been a special favourite walk for Zeus. I think the photos capture the situation really well – he was like a kiddie in a sweet shop, he was so thrilled to be there again after so so long! He actually “talked” to us all the way round the lake he was so excited. He must have also marked almost every tuft of grass en route around the lake!! We look forward to the time when we can also walk him up the hill.

He is walking really well and, although we were given another small bottle of Metacam when he left the hospital, as the week has progressed I have reduced the dose as he doesn’t appear to have any discomfort – he just sleeps really well after his outings! He is also gradually getting over his apprehension at walking out through the gate and is clearly over the moon to be able to walk down to the horses again.

Over the last few weeks we have been encouraging him to walk to the gate whenever possible as part of his “walkies” in the garden, taking care not to force the issue when he was clearly unhappy. This has been added to by occasionally opening the gate and letting him have a sniff around the entrance. Then – about two weeks ago, after he had accompanied Sheila and I to lunch, I got Sheila to drop us off at the entrance to the drive instead of coming in and, to my amazement and delight, he not only marked his territory on the corner of the wall but proceeded to walk slowly down the road, checking the smells and ignoring the passing traffic completely. Since then, he has gradually become more confident again and sometimes now, he even asks to be taken to the gate to see if anyone is passing (especially dogs!). He still has moments of slight panic or “won’t” but these are becoming less and we are confident these will soon pass as he always so enjoys coming out with us.

We remain certain that, had it not been for the wonderful care and expertise of Mark Owen, the orthopaedic specialist, things could have been very different. I am still amazed, having seen the earlier x-rays, that it has been possible to rebuild Zeus’s left leg – it was just so splintered at the fracture. And yet – here he is happy and walking out confidently on all 4 legs. For all his fortitude and resilience and determination to live – without Mark’s expertise I really doubt he would have come through with 4 good legs. Mark and all the staff at Rowe Veterinary Hospital were wonderful and so genuinely caring and concerned. It says it all when Zeus walks in there quite happily, despite the traumas of successive operations and x-rays! I will be writing to Mark to express our thanks and will copy the letter to you.

We would also like to thank all those who have responded to you about Zeus. We both had tears in our eyes reading some of the responses. We have taken much fortitude in the encouragement and response of so many people who have been touched by Zeus’s story – bed and breakfast visitors to the cottage, local people, friends, family and even complete strangers. And hopefully now, we can look to a happy outcome after so long – Zeus certainly deserves it. Reading through the responses that you have posted on Zeus’s page, there are one or two points I would like to pick up:

1. Comfrey:
We would be very interested if Sylvia has any further information on Comfrey – especially any advice on administration of the herb, as she makes the comment that care should be exercised when giving it in the way that we have been doing. Ironically, our friend who supplied us with the Comfrey plants has a young collie who loves to eat the leaves from the Comfrey plants in her garden!

2. Cost and Insurance:
One or two of the responses mention the financial costs – what can I say – huge (all told veterinary treatment has come to approximate £6,000)! But at the end of the day it is all about getting the best care for a loved member of the family. Unfortunately Zeus wasn’t insured – bad oversight on my part but then, my first 2 afghans Turabaz Georgia Brown (Khala) and Isfahan Taneha were never insured and only incurred minor veterinary costs during their life - Khala lived to the age of 14 ½ and Taneha to an incredible 16 years old!

Meanwhile, all of our last Afghans (all Jhansi’s) were insured, as Richard automatically took out puppy insurance, which we then continued. Nevertheless, accidents aside, it is often later in life when need for veterinary care is more likely but insurance is no longer viable. Both Nino and Shamal had quite expensive veterinary treatment 2 or 3 years after cancellation of their policies when they were 10!

What I do find very wrong is the legal position and I wonder how many other animal owners (because this wouldn’t only apply to dogs) with home businesses are aware: business insurance is unlikely to cover against a customer’s negligence in respect of your animals and, moreover, in law it would be necessary to prove not only “negligence” BUT ALSO “a duty of care” in order to make a case against a customer. Even then it is unlikely costs would be awarded in excess of the value of the animal in commercial terms!!

Meanwhile, the specialist, knowing that Zeus was not insured, capped his fees for the 2nd operation at £1,100 and, apart from antibiotics and Metacam, there have been no other charges from the hospital since 9 June. We quite taken aback at such kindness shown by a specialist vet, especially after the awful experience with the Cheltenham emergency vet service and indeed the fact that our own vets, who we have been with for over 30 years made no such offer.

3. Hair growth:
Zeus’s hair is gradually growing back where he was shaved over progressive operations – both front legs and his left shoulder. As you will see from the latest photos, his coat looks reasonably balanced since I clipped him very short after the 2nd operation - due to the hot weather and also not being able to bath him. He has never been very fond of grooming (best described even now as toleration), as his previous owners sent him to a grooming parlour (obviously important for a “fashion accessory”!), where I suspect he would have been sedated. But on that occasion he showed positive enjoyment! Meanwhile, you can hardly see where the pins have been and hair is re growing on all scars (helped I am sure by the incredible neatness of the surgeon).

4. Hydrotherapy
It is also interesting that Nikki mentions how helpful hydrotherapy was to her Afghan as it is something we were considering, perhaps to start in a couple of weeks time.

Well – I think that about covers update for the moment. We are now looking forward to longer walks and to our local exemption dog show on 10th September, when he will at least be able to make a “guest appearance”. Ironically, I have just had a phone call from the organiser to say that the shield we are sponsoring for Best Rescue has just arrived and looks stunning – it is also the biggest which seems fitting as the show raises funds for Rottweiler Rescue. Hopefully the Afghan badge you have found will fit in the centre – the other shields will have Rottweilers on them, which Annie has got from the Rottweiler Rescue, but as this is very much “Zeus’s Shield” it is appropriate to have an Afghan on it.

Update 09-01-07

Finally a follow-up on Zeus’s progress: he is doing really well and very much back to fitness and normality! Sorry for the delay in writing this update but the last few months have left little spare time for anything as we have progressed through a strict exercise regime to rebuild his fitness since the external fixator came off in mid August.

Starting with short, slow walks for the first couple of weeks, these were already lengthening in early September and he was starting to walk out well, although not totally sound on his left leg by the time of the Staunton Companion Dog Show. This proved to be a wonderful afternoon out for all of us, blessed by wonderful early autumn sunshine. We drove Zeus down in the vehicle as the 1 mile walk each way + walking around at the show would have been too much for him at that stage but he spent the whole afternoon at the show and thoroughly enjoyed himself – very much centre of attention and loving it! The “Best Rescue” shield, which we sponsored, looked really great with the Afghan head you kindly provided mounted in the centre (I will send photo with this email) and the show organisers were over the moon with this and Zeus’s “guest appearance” at the show.

We had pre-arranged to take Zeus into the ring to present the shield and I have to say it was just as well it was a sunny day and I was wearing sunglasses as I was in tears – not only being able to walk Zeus into the ring but also as the class was won by our friend Sheila’s rescue German Shepherd. It really was the best result we could have wished for as Sheila had been so involved throughout Zeus’s recuperation, ferrying us to and from vets’ appointments and calling in to see him and take him out on days when we were both working. I’m sure Zeus was equally pleased and proud to be in the ring presenting the shield to such good and well deserving friends!

Our initial concerns that it would be a problem encouraging Zeus to walk out of the gates were soon allayed. To begin with he would not even approach the gates and we had to load him in a vehicle and take him walks away from the road but within a week the situation was improving. The real break through came when Sheila and I returned from lunch (accompanied by Zeus) and I got her to drop us off in the entrance to the gateway and, as she drove off, instead of taking him in through the gate, walked him off down the road without any resistance. In fact he was so intent on inspecting and piddling on all his favoured piddle points, he hardly even noticed the passing traffic.

This was followed with much perseverance walking him around the garden and then the drive towards the gates and within a couple more weeks he was happy to be walked through the gates without any resistance at all. Very soon he was positively demanding his “walkies” and equally soon, these were developing from more gentle walks to “power walks”. We did consider some form of water therapy but this was not possible until the wounds from the fixator had healed and by the time it was feasible, he was muscling up well from walking.

On 18th October, Zeus had his final check up with our vet and received a big “thumbs up”. The vet was really pleased with his progress and confirmed muscles were building up nicely but to continue to err on the side of caution in so far as keeping him to walking on the lead for a couple more months. Fortunately, with our patio area fenced off from the rest of the garden (and the upper level still fenced with Sheila’s sheep hurdles to prevent him jumping down off the wall), he was at least able to go out unrestrained in this area. Anyway we were so pleased and then …… disaster stuck! Only 2 days after the appointment, Zeus’s right front leg (the better of the two), became swollen and he was limping.

We rushed him back to the vet on the Saturday morning and he was given painkillers. It was hoped this would alleviate the problem if it was a simple case of a strain / sprain and should respond over the weekend - but it didn’t! In fact it got worse and, on the Sunday morning, I managed to put my back out quite badly (having only just had a treatment with the chiropractor on the Friday for a minor strain!) supporting him as he started to collapse awkwardly on his left front leg as he was trying to have a pee! All in all, it was the worse possible scenario for him to be hopping round with his left front leg taking the weight, as that was obviously the weakest at the time. Equally we were concerned that the supports, which had been left in his right leg, may have loosened, which would mean yet another operation to remove them!

Monday saw Zeus back in the vets again for the day for x-rays – all of us holding our breath! Something we hadn’t even considered was also the prospect that he could have a cancer on the bone – apparently, although only in a small number of cases, this can result following a break. Thankfully, the x-rays showed nothing untoward in terms of any growths and the supports appeared to be in place – later also confirmed by the specialist in Bristol, when he received copies of them. He was put onto strong antibiotics and – what seemed like a miracle - within a couple of days the swelling and pain had reduced considerably and by the end of the week he was back to normal! I just can’t even start to describe our relief!

The incident was put down to a sudden infection triggered by some sort of poisonous scratch. Our vet actually said that he had never seen such a violent reaction except from an adder bite, which would be unusual at that time of year and anyway was clearly not the case, as Zeus had only been walked on the lead. We will never know for sure what caused it but the most likely explanation is a black thorn puncture / scratch - Zeus, in common with most afghans I have know, insists of virtually going right into hedges for pees and poos!

Since that time, his recuperation has continued problem-free and he “power-walks” so well now, that we have to jog to keep pace! And he can keep going at this speed for a lot longer than us! He is still stepping out with gusto while we are lagging and puffing!

By mid November he was once again negotiating the stairs without problem and delighted to be able to “invade” our bedroom again. He loves to be able to curl up on one of the rugs in the bedroom for the night and would look at us dolefully when we had to put the stair gate at the bottom of the stairs while he was recuperating! By late November we started to allow him occasional runs in the garden, albeit under strict supervision and now he delights again in running around the lawn and checking for possible trespassers in the form of squirrels, rabbits and cats! Unfortunately I have yet to capture him running on camera – the best I have managed is a good one of him lying down on the lawn but ready to take off again in play (another photo I will include)!

Even if we were to consider him fit enough to run in one of the secure fields at the farm, he will have to wait for a while. This is less to do with his fitness than the state of the fields, which are more like lakes and swamps at the moment with all the rain! Still – he is certainly a very happy pooch being able to have freedom again in his own home and garden and plenty of walks and outings – plus I can take him out with me again in the car as he can now get in and out with ease.

Meanwhile, his coat is gradually growing and he looks far less “shorn” than he did in late summer, although the cream hair on his front legs is growing much more slowly that the black for some reason! He had his first bath since his accident in early September immediately prior to his “guest appearance” at the dog show – albeit at that stage a very quick affair so as not to put him under duress. Ironically he appeared to really enjoy both the bath and the grooming (as opposed to the usual “I will tolerate!”) – so he must have felt better for it. He has just had another (for Christmas!). As his coat is still comparatively short, it doesn’t take long to get him dried and groomed out! Christmas day lunch and afternoon were spent at the farm, where we keep the horses, with Zeus very much part of the family and enjoying plenty of attention (and sausages – see photo!).

Zeus has just come in looking thoroughly pleased with himself after enjoying one of his favourite pastimes – barking at unsuspecting passers-by at the front gate, many of whom then stop to talk to him. He really has found a place in so many peoples’ hearts and is so popular in the village and further afield – even as far afield as Australia and New Zealand! As you will have seen, we dedicated our Christmas card to “all those who gave their support in so many ways throughout the year to make Zeus’s amazing recovery possible and most especially to Mark Owen and his team at Rowe Veterinary Hospital”. We are so grateful to so many people, including all those who have written in to you in response to Zeus’s story. Such support has meant so much to us throughout Zeus’s long ordeal and helped to give us the strength to bring him through.

But at the end of the day, it has been Zeus’s own fortitude and sheer will to live, which has brought him through. I still remember the phone-call from Philip, a local farmer, on the night of his accident telling me not to worry too much because “a dog that screams that loud is not about to give up and die”! And he was so right – Zeus has made it back to health and fitness despite all the odds being stacked against him! Another friend, not long after we first had Zeus, commented that his expression on the photo taken on his first day with us (the one you have on the website) said it all “I must have died and gone to heaven!” as he surveyed the expanse of green fields, having been brought out of a shed in a “postage stamp garden” on a housing estate earlier that same day! And perhaps this too played a part in his sheer determination to fight back and survive – he was not about to give this up. Whatever the answer – he has certainly lived up to his nickname of “Super Pooch”!

One final point that you may find amusing: Since the accident and frequent stays at vets over the ensuing months, Zeus is considerably friendlier with other dogs now and positively delights in the company of certain special friends (lady ones of course!)! We have put this down to all the hours confined with strange dogs and cats in the recuperation area – with a picture in our minds of them all exchanging operation stories and the like, as patients tend to do in hospital, and wishing each other good luck as they are taken off for treatment!

Love and best wishes, Carole, Jasper & Zeus (Super Pooch)

Carole, here is a reply about Comfry from our Sylvia who is very knowing about these things, I hope it helps

The herb Comfrey is said to be excellent to assist in the unification of fractures hence the old name "knit bone", in medieval times the comfrey root was grated into a sludge like paste and packed around fractures,it would set hard like POP! It can be administered orally as Carole has done with Zeus (viz ala the Juliette De Baraicai-Levy's book method)

The safer way is possibly the homoeopathic tablet form (purchased as symphytum) given over a limited period, however comfrey is reported to cause liver damage if taken in large amounts over a long period of time.

Although this is questioned in some circles, it might be prudent to err on the side of caution here & now that the unification has taken place I would not have thought it would be necessary for ZEUS to continue to have any more of the leaves added to his dinners, it is a truly wonderful story of determination & the very best of interest & care of a companion animal. Sylvia.

(Note to Carole and your family from all the Affie Lovers member. Well done for the care and dedication you have shown to your lovely boy Zeus, we all wish him a full recovery, below are some of the messages left about Zeus, we thought you would like to read them for yourself)

This is a true act of love and dedication to a canine friend, I wish Zeus a speedy recovery and his owners many more loving years together, A moving fascinating story...it brought tears to my eyes...just lovely Shirley. Liz Gray

Bless him Shirley - although he has had a very traumatic experience what a lucky boy he is to have found a home like that. I hope his recovery continues, all the best to him and his family, love Shona x

I will pass your good wishes on. I must admit to shedding a few tears when I read it. Carole is going to give us another update a bit later on. Love, Shirley. xxx

Oh Shirley what a lovely story, dogs never cease to amaze me, they give us so much and ask so little.

Will be watching for his progress with interest and keeping fingers crossed for a complete recovery. Having had a dog with external fixators on I too am amazed by their resilience and ability to cope with the pain without 'taking it out' on those around them, there's some people who could learn from that!. Nikki

Shirley I have only skimmed through the story (VERY tired & STILL recovering fro KELSO weekend) but what a tale of DEVOTION & true LOVE for a dog, I wonder how many would be prepared to go down this route given such a serious injury...I would not even begin to think about the FINANCIAL costs (assume he is insured?) let alone the EMOTIONAL roller coaster costs and its effect on this dogs caring owners...lucky boy indeed. Interesting that she mentions the herb Comfrey otherwise known as KNIT BONE. This remedy can be obtained in tablet form (homoeopathic) from Ainsworths & indeed any Homoeopathic pharmacy and is A MUST for any broken bones...CARE however should be exercised when giving it the way described in this article. I have used it successfully on a puppy who had a broken leg & also on MYSELF when i fell & broke my leg in 1990. THANKS Shirley for posting this story. SYLVIA
What amazing people, and what an amazing story. Both Zeus and his owners can be so proud of themselves.

Could we not do an auction to help raise some money to go towards his treatment? I know we have just had a mini one, but I'm sure everyone would be happy to have another one. Seems its the least we could do to help Zeus's family. Let me know if I can do anything, but don't ask me to get 'computerey' as I'm useless. Lots of love Mo x

Hi Shirley, lovely story ,bless him ;i hope he is soon fully recovered it must make you feel like your job is worthwhile seeing what a caring situation he is in now. love sue xx

We have just been reading Zeus's story, he certainly is a very lucky boy to have such a wonderful home, love Jackie & Alan

Shirley has sent us the latest update on Zeus and a photo of him in his 'Fixator' taken after his last operations. Zeus is doing very well and thank you to his owner for letting us follow his progress after such serious injuries. Hazel

What an inspiring story Hazel. How wonderful that these people have shown such dedication to getting Zeus well again. I do hope this story will have a really happy ending - they all deserve it, most of all Zeus. Lesley x

All dogs should feel the love of a family so dedicated.....What a truly inspiring story . I wish the very best to Zeus and his wonderful family.......Dottie

Oh that's wonderful Hazel, what a touching story and such wonderful owners, lots of special Hugs to Zeus , such a brave boy. Jo xxx

What a heart wrenching story; so pleased that Zeus is recovering well. Stories like this restore ones faith in human beings! Love, Marcelle

What a wonderful story, that's a lucky boy, if only everyone had the dedication this family have. Well done to them all and of course Zeus for coping, having had a dog with the fixators I know how hard it is. Nikki. (Thought you would find Nikki's answers encouraging Carole so have added them to your page)

Does the hair grow again where the fixators were inserted Nikki? When they are taken out does it heal very quickly?. I agree Zeus seems to be coping amazingly well. Hopefully Carole will give us more updates on him as he mends. Hazel

Hair grew back just fine Haz, but then he was a baby when it happened so the coat was in it's growing stage anyway, although still clipped him off to the skin as it was summer time and easier for him for his swimming, ahhh now that REALLY helped him, the hydrotherapy made a big difference as his front legs and shoulder muscles were wasted but a course of that, plus very very gentle exercise and he came back good as gold. Nikki

Carol, all of the members from Affie Lovers wish you and Zeus a long and happy time together with no more trauma's. Well done on doing a great job bringing Zeus back to good health again.

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Updated 09-01-07