Toffee The Akita Dog's Retirement: A Life in Pictures

In late October 2019 we were out for a walk and something went in my back. I could barely walk and Daddy had to help me to get home and call the vet. The vet came to see me and wanted to put me to sleep right there. Daddy wasn't going to let this happen and made sure I got the pain medication I needed whilst he got in touch with the lovely vet Sarah who explained that what had happened was probably a mild herniated disc and told us what medications were needed for my condition. This information was passed on to my vet and we got the prescriptions I needed to keep me going. I also got heat pads to help my joints and Daddy made sure that every meal was a treat. All my medication also came wrapped in delicious pate. I knew exactly what time of day I was due to take each one I can tell you.

I was incredibly sleepy for the first couple of days, but I was soon up and moving again. I was incredibly lucky and I got to have a few months of retirement when I could enjoy the garden and many lovely meals and lots of love. I also had a lot of my friends come to visit which was very nice indeed. My back legs were very stiff and I didn't find it easy to get up and down any more but aside from missing my walks I had a lovely retirement.

Although my legs were very stiff, I still liked to play with my toys.

When I wasn't sleeping I was up and about and I loved having people around me.

I still loved my food and slavered just at the thought of it.

Although I missed my walks I loved to be outdoors. I even had my last bonfire night. Most dogs don't like fireworks but I've always liked to watch the pretty colours in the sky and the noises never bothered me. On bonfire night the back door was open and I went out and sat watching the fireworks. I'd only just started getting better at this point but I wasn't going to miss this.