time to start over

[ozzysmom]

I haven't posted much because I can not get ozzy to cooperate with home testing. I backed off trying for a bit because we had house guests for a couple of weeks and ozzy is skittish with new ppl. Now that the house is back to normal we are trying again. I've gotten it so ozzy will allow the warming bottle (I use a small pill bottle with warm water in it). I hold him between my knees and give treats, and pet and speak calmly. I've gotten some pokes in but he goes crazy after one try. Part of the issue is my hands go numb from a neck injury so I'm not very quick.
is it smart to back off a bit or should I keep trying? How often should I try? He is generally very calm and can be easily handled but he does not like his ears messed with.
otherwise he is doing great! He's gained some weight, his coat is beautiful and its sheer joy watching him play and be mischievous again! I'll post his numbers from the vet in the spreadsheet ( which I'm still trying to figure out) right now he is on 1 unit lantus 2x a day.
thanks!

 

[Squalliesmom]

Hi Ozzy's Mom. Have you tried using a paw pad instead of an ear? Lots of folks have had success testing a pad. Seems like most use the large center pad on a hind foot , and I do know you need a larger lancet if you use the pad. Also, regardless of where you are testing, try not to let Ozzy see you are nervous or frustrated. Be firm with him, but loving..."Okay, Ozzy, we are going to get this done because it is what helps keep you safe and, while you may not like it, it doesn't hurt you and you will just have to get used to it!" followed by kisses and cuddles!

Isn't it wonderful to see them play and act like silly kitties again?!? My Squallie is 17 and he acts like a kitten again, always playing and having so much fun! Makes it all worthwhile, doesn't it?!

Good luck with the tetsting, and don't give up; every time you try, even if it isn't successful, you are that much closer to your end goal!

Lucy

 

[ozzysmom]

Thank you Lucy for the encouraging words. Your right...I have to take deep breaths ozzy didn't like the shots much and would turn and bite me after but now that we have developed a routine and a special treat he is fine (and me too) so I'm going to keep on trying.

 

[Squalliesmom]

Thank you Lucy for the encouraging words. Your right...I have to take deep breaths ozzy didn't like the shots much and would turn and bite me after but now that we have developed a routine and a special treat he is fine (and me too) so I'm going to keep on trying.

Just don't let it discourage you. I know it's extra-hard when you have a physical impediment, like the numbness in your hands. I have severe breathing problems and the meds I take make my hands shake terribly, and my eyesight is horrible, even with my bifocals. Half the time I get blood from Squallie's ear I can't see it! But in the end, it is do-able, so keep up the good work. You've got this!

Lucy

 

[Andy & Pimp]

You can try messing with his ears for a second and then giving a treat, whenever you have the chance. Don't necessarily test.

If you can get him to associate having his ears touched with a special treat, you're golden.

 

[ozzysmom]

Thanks Andy. That is exactly what we are working on. I finally found a freeze dried treat that he loves and it has worked beautifully with the shots!