Zappa's laser treatment

Walking so much better with laser treatment.

 One of my favorite days of the week is Zappa's laser treatment day.  It has become such a bonding time for the three of us, as well as the vet staff, whom have fallen in love with Zappa.  

The day starts 3 hours before his appointment, when he gets his sedative, along with his daily supplements and if he's in the mood, breakfast.  I am not really a fan of giving the medicine, but there are some benefits.  For one, it makes him drop his guard and soften his aloof demeanor.  He changes from shrug-a-shoulder-don't-bother-me-dog to please-stay-close-to-me dog.  This is only exemplified when we get in the van.  Zappa can't sit or lay down in the van and so he stands in between our front seats, all the more bringing that physical closeness that we don't get on a normal day.  So these rides have become pretty special.  Sneaking kisses that I've missed out on, petting, hugs (for those sharp corners) and treats make it the perfect together time.  And if that wasn't enough, Zappa will ask for eye massages or pets by rubbing his head against my forearm.  Yes, these rides are a treat indeed! 

Standing on his own back legs.

The sedative doesn't knock him out.  He is very aware of what is going on and where we are going.  I only give him half of recommended dose otherwise it takes too long for him to recover from it. So, he still is nervous going to the vet.  The vet techs are so good with him and work well with Zappa, which makes for a good visit.  

We let Zappa go by himself in the back room to get his laser treatment.  It is a 45 minute procedure and this is where the second half of the fun comes in...meeting all the dogs and dog owners that come in while we are waiting.  They share their stories, we share ours and it is like a meeting of the dog minds.  I love this part of our trip.  There are so many different dog breeds and we have seen some really unique ones, every week is different.  

Even having a little playtime with no pain.

The ride home is much more relaxed.  Zappa is usually a little calmer and feeling less pain and now it is just a matter of getting home so he can rest.  It will take him about 24 hours to recover from the sedative and the trip itself.  A nap, a meal and more napping until bedtime.  Half way through the following day of his treatment, he will start waking up from the medicine and the results from the laser treatment are quite noticeable after that first day.  

And then we get to do it all over again the next week.  :)