Bucket list for Merlin (GSD/BC cross)

[Sway]

Here's Merlin. The goodest of good boys. He's 11.



Suffering a bit from arthritis in his front legs, metacam is doing the job for now. However, what was a fatty lump on his front shoulder has turned into a 'locally aggressive tumour' that's growing really rather quickly.

Discussions with vet means we've ruled out surgical intervention as being unfair to him.

So - whilst it's not going to kill him, it's likely this will be the thing that reduces his quality of life enough we will 'make the call'. Could be weeks, could be months, could be longer.

If it carries on growing at the rate it is, I think it'll be a few months. Dream would be that he's still vibrant and happy in August for my long overdue wedding.

So. Operation Merlin Dreams is in effect. We want to do everything we can to make sure he loves the remaining time, and fills it with awesome doggo experiences.

Ideas?

Loves water. Not fussed by other dogs (as in, he pretty much just ignores them!). Obvs loves his walks, but have to be a bit careful overdoing it due to the arthritis. Not hugely food orientated.

Live near Chichester. We'll be taking him to Arundel Lake, and he can get as soggy and muddy as he wants while we paddle around in a rowing boat. Walks will be focussed on new places, with new sniffs.

Any other ideas?

[lancslad58]

Here's a few to choose from, different lengths etc.

https://discoversussex.org/walks/

[QBee]

Our 31 kg border collie was on similar meds for his last 4 years.
He too had a large tumour that developed in his shoulder in the last 18 months of his life, but it didn't seem to bother him, he just looked lopsided.
Eventually he succumbed to a stroke just short of his 13th birthday, but after a day of three walks and barking balistically at my horse as usual.

I can only wish you well and make the best of your time with him while you still have him.
Does he like the beach at all? Are there any nice sandy ones near you where dogs are permitted?

Make memories with him and video them.

[Sway]

Thanks for sharing your experience. Can only hope we've another 18 months with him!

Beaches are close and frequently visited - the idea of loads of pics and videos is a great one.

[moorx]

I'm not in your area, so can't suggest any bucket list items, but just wanted to wish you and Merlin the very best. He is a very handsome boy

[Enut]

He's a lovely looking boy.
We have two GSDs both about 8 years old, I'm not looking forward to them getting older.
I can't really offer any advice on things to do and, to be honest, I doubt if he's that fussed as long as he's doing those things with you. The more time you spend with him the more he'll enjoy it, even if it's just sitting next to him on the floor and stroking him while watching telly in the evening.