Written by Olivia Baker
Fur-children provide a love like no other, but they can unfortunately come at a cost particularly when a health issue arises.
Our darling Evie was a German Shepherd, also known as an Alsatian. Evie was a rescue dog and was approximately 6-12 months of age upon being welcomed into our family.
Evie was beautiful, and no expense was spared for her diet, her grooming regime, bedding, and health. Her diet entailed a balanced home cooked meal plan of pumpkin or sweet potato puree, beef mince or chicken breast with the occasional side of steamed greens mixed through.
In addition to this high protein and high fibre diet, she enjoyed her pet friendly probiotic yoghurt, and a good quality kibble was also added to her meals to support her bone health and to ensure she was not lacking in any nutrition.
Her grooming regime involved a plant-based shampoo and conditioner, also including a pet friendly version of dry shampoo to aid in winter, while keeping her coat clean and glossy.
No expense was spared with her bedding, as she had a day bed situated in the cooler section of our backyard, her enclosed evening bed and a comfortable extra-large cushioned mattress for sporadic day-time naps. In her younger years, Evie would enjoy walks daily.
Her overall lifestyle was very active, she loved to run and would have the aptitude to play all day. This was a great way to bond with one-another, noting a special water bottle was taken on our trips to ensure she was always hydrated during on our outings.
Despite the above, her health experienced two significant and costly challenges in her later years of life which were very unexpected involving a hysterectomy in August 2022, and arthritis issues in her rear hip joints which became more prominent in 2023.
Unfortunately, on 7 January 2024, Evie’s health severely declined with vet x-rays identifying lesions located within her lungs and she was subsequently put to sleep in our arms while she made her way to heaven.
Following her departure, her ashes and an imprint of her paw were ordered, to pay tribute to the legacy she has left in our hearts. The love and everlasting memories Evie provided to our family for ten years were priceless, and there is nothing that she never went without as the cost of her being in our lives was never questioned.
In summary, yes having a puppy is an expensive and long-term commitment, but I wouldn’t have life any other way as Evie was and will always remain part of our family.
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative
