Yesterday i wrote a post about human care and the comparison between Private and Government care. I thought today I would speak about the experience I have had with my Rottweiler- Newton. He is thus named because he is a very bright boy (he says dead sarcastically). There are at least three brain cells floating around up there. 1. Food - which includes his favourite, any material and the rubbish bins. He just bullies them over and then eats, well anything. 2. Entry. If there is a door or gate open he is in, there is no waiting for approval, he just goes. If you make him, he will sit before being allowed through, but you need to be there first. 3. A walkies. Just go near the leash and he is game - and then its play 'catch the slippery fish' to attach the leash.
Otherwise he is a really good lad, he doesn't freak out over strangers, he's really normal around other dogs - ooh kids, not so good. Typical Rottie - sits on his fellow dogs, runs through bushes and people. Really good temperament and the big fur baby in the house.
About a month ago we noticed he was being physically sick at the most inappropriate times and in the most inappropriate places. We also started noticing he was losing weight. We found a lump in his throat.
Off to the family vet we go. Basically a little complex with parking at the edge of the neighbourhood. X-rays were what was needed which were duly handed to us with a written diagnosis of thyroid cancer. There was no further consultation with a vet, no advise or medicine, how about a plan, how about some pain medication. Is the dog in pain? Hello, anybody home. Some help here! R4000 ($244) later, and quite frankly just a devastating horrible experience.
So what is Plan B? Someone reminded us about the PDSA. The WHO'SA.
(PDSA) - The Peoples Dispensary for Sick Animals. In the heart of Soweto in Johannesburg. Turns out my wife used to go to the PDSA many many years ago. So off we head, it's about 20 minutes outside of Johannesburg.
On arrival, we realised that there is going to be a little wait as there are a multitude of folks here with alls sorts of dogs. What did surprise me though, was the amount of pit bulls. From puppies to fully grown. I should also say is that everybody was extremely well behaved, there was no drama waltzing in there with a big Rottweiler. Newton was also very well behaved. When we sat down he sat down. Everybody was really friendly wanting to know a little bit about each other and their problems. Even a good giggle when the a horse and cart pulled up to the front gate.
Our number came up and off we went past all the big dogs, little pups and even some kittens. There were veterinary students and interns everywhere, you could tell by the young bright eyed looks on their faces, Three of them came into the consultation room with us and proceeded to ask loads of questions. Newton was examined up and down and only then - it seemed like they went to confer with the vet. Dr Ash came in and did his own exam, asked different questions, listened to our sob story and explained that he wanted to spend a few weeks trying to get the swelling down, help with eating better and any pain that he might be experiencing.
We were dumbfounded. Here was a man who spent time with us - told us about his dogs. Told us that surgery wasn't an option as the Thyroid is right in a nervous tissue area with a voice box. A very specialised surgery and very expensive if you can find someone. He put us at ease, gave us a ten and twenty day plan. He gave us medicine and patiently explained the dispensing of the meds. Wished us well and sent us to the till to pay R200 ($12). His time plus meds. Bless you Dr Ash. Extraordinary experience.
We are not in denial about the future of Newton, but hopeful and relieved that he will be with us for a while, happy, pain-free and back to rugby tackling the rubbish bins.
A personal note about my multitude of experiences with provincial or governmental assistance as apposed to so-called private care.
There is a local saying that comes to mind. "Africa Time" - refers to how things take a long time to happen in Africa. There is no doubt that there is so much that is broken and in-efficient in South Africa, but if you are able to put the 'wait' in and have the right mindset - there are absolute miracles going on all around us and even in spite of us.
So I keep the unsung heroes in my prayers. Thank you to you.
