Happy New Year!

So, happy new year everyone, and I hope everyone had a great holiday season. I can't believe 2008 is official here!

So, a little update: Jack is well!

Since this is a new blog, allow me to give you the background. Jack has been sick with bladder infection second time in his life. (Or, the new theory is that he had problems since birth, but just now detected.) He underwent surgery just before the holidays.

First, he was scheduled for a simple surgery to remove the crystals that were discovered during a recent x-ray. Despite diet changes (which had potentials to dissolve the crystals), he did not seem to be better. So, I opted for surgery.

In the middle of the surgery, the vet called to ask for my authorization for a more comprehensive surgery, since there were crystals along the way that he couldn't get to. So, my poor Jack went through a perineal urethrostomy. This is basically a kitty sex change.

Several thoughts went through my mind. I was scheduled to leave town for the holidays. Jack's recovery time would be prolonged. So, first thing was would the vet be willing to board him while I am gone. He agreed, so I agreed to the additional surgery.

He had to wear a elizabeth collar (a cone-shaped hoodie) afterwards to make sure he doesn't lick his wounds. He also needed to use Yesterday's News litters to avoid litters getting stuck to his wounds. (A problem with that is that Yesterday's News doesn't come in small packages. So, I ended up with a huge bag. I also believe the rabbit variety could have worked too, and that did come in a smaller packaging. Oh well, I guess I could always use litters.)

I was worried that Jack would not be in tip top shape for any kind of wrestling. So, I separated him from Summer for the duration of the recovery. When he came back, Summer hissed and growled at him for two full days. I had to keep a good eye on them for a while. Now, Jack is healthy, and he and Summer play like buds again.

Jack was really ready for some loving when he got back home. But all told, he recovered beautifully. Surprisingly, this was also the first time that Summer has been left to her own devices (since I left for the holidays and Jack was at the vet). She was also very much ready for some loving when I returned. She was by my side at all time. That was cute.

All told, the surgery costed me over $1K, but it's a small price for Jack's comfort.

So, for the new year, I wish you all good health. To you and your four legged friends!