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Timeline of a Goodbye
In memory of Flash: Part Two
January 2, 2018
Flash has a vet appointment. He’s been really itchy. He’s had chronic skin issues since he was about 2 years old, so this is not new. But we’re also worried because he’s been coughing more often. Since he was diagnosed with a mitral valve prolapse in late August, any increase in coughing immediately sets me on edge. This time I’m also worried it sounds different. Maybe deeper. I don’t know. But my mom radar is up. His eating hasn’t been great, either, but he still has plenty of appetite for treats so we think it’s a bout of food boredom. He’s prone to these periodically.
Still, we go into the vet fairly optimistic. He’s had increased coughing without fluid buildup a few times. We’re concerned, but not terrified.
That doesn’t last long.
Our vet listens and tells us Flashy’s abdomen has filled with fluid. His lungs are clear, but he’s concerned the pressure is affecting his liver. Flash is so mellow, so easygoing that x-rays are easy to do on him, so they take him back.
I’m starting to panic and fighting tears. But panic is possibly my best skill. I try to tell myself I’m overreacting. I know, somehow, I’m not. I always know.
When the vet comes back, I see it on his face immediately. It’s bad. His heart is…
