Today was the big 8 week post-op checkup at 9 weeks.

It was a mad co-ordination of an orthopedic vet and his travelling surgical team…Dr. Calm and Calm Veterinary… and Bear and me.

We all survived.

At 11:15 a.m. I headed for Kila, MT (Calm Veterinary) with computer, Kindle Fire HD, smartphone and SNACKS including dog treats.

At 1:04 p.m. we received word that the travelling surgical team were on their way with a 30 minute ETA. It was Dr. Calm’s day off but she had agreed to be at the clinic for a joint session.

Bear’s medical team assembled about 1:30. Bear was whisked away for x-rays. Then I was whisked away to assist in the x-ray procedure.

One look at Bear and a comment that they had muzzled him at one point and I called a halt and took him out of there for a calm-down break.

After some quiet time and hands on checking of knees, hips and back – we tried again with Dr. Calm and myself at his head and feet AND “gowned” in protective gear that weighs a TON. We “flipped” Bear, spoke quietly, held and the xray was taken in short order.

The x-ray along with the manual exam showed Bear’s surgery leg was fully healed – YEA! The manual exam of the non surgery leg was good as were his hips but the x-ray showed some fluid on the knee of the non-surgery leg. So…the instruction was to go to normal activity, and see how things go. Bear also had a chiropractic adjustment on advice of both Drs and we go back in two weeks for another.

The hope is that there is no tear on the non-surgery leg and that it is just muscle catching up. If there is a tear, it will probably be evident as things progress. I am relieved that there was no immediate suggestion for the 2nd surgery.

We came home via the grocery where I procurred cheddar goldfish crackers and a bottle of wine…fell OFF the color detox wagon!

The sun was shining.

It had been a beautiful day to drive to Kila and back and I thought maybe Bear would want to spend a bit of time on Beardog Point.

No…he just wanted to go in the house.

He stood by the treat cupboard so I gave him a Greenie.

Nom, nom, nom!

Nom, nom…

more Nom.

And that’s all she wrote.

Lights out.

Day is done.

I am so glad I have wine and goldfish crackers.

Tomorrow is another day.