When I first saw Socrates, my heart broke. He had spent nine years living in terrible conditions – surrounded by disease, dirt, and chains. His body was emaciated, covered in scabs, and he was severely dehydrated. His wounds were gaping and his frame was nothing but skin and bones. I knew that I couldn’t let him suffer any longer, even though I had other responsibilities.
The following day, I visited Socrates and noticed that his slender physique was vulnerable to illnesses. He didn’t look healthy as his face was puffed up and his eyes were sunken. Even if I shouted at the top of my lungs, he wouldn’t be able to hear me due to his hearing impairment. However, I was pleased to see that Socrates still had an appetite which gave me hope that he could recover fully.
All set to take Socrates to the vet, I felt overwhelmed with the responsibility of handling his case. This was my first experience dealing with an animal like him and I hoped for a positive outcome. Unfortunately, the test results revealed bone cancer, which came as a shock to me. Socrates’ back ankle was in bad shape, and the only solution was to amputate his back leg. All in all, it was a difficult situation to handle emotionally.
I was optimistic that the cancer could be cured without spreading. To strengthen Socrates’ weight and immune system, he needed to undergo therapy and stay at the vet’s clinic. I had informed him about the challenging times ahead. Socrates has developed a thicker build and gained weight, which necessitated more grooming. Despite this, he remained hopeful about his future. His fur had grown significantly, showing signs of recovery.
I became buddies with Socrates and visited him twice daily at the hospital, morning and night, to provide him with food. I went above and beyond by cooking his meals to perfection, not like how one would typically cook for a dog. Socrates was taken outside to relish in the scenery and inhale the crisp, clean air. I’m confident he appreciated it. Unfortunately, the fight against his ailments seemed never-ending as he kept experiencing recurring symptoms such as a fever and diarrhea for two days.
I was worried that my loved one had contracted another type of viral infection, but thankfully, he was moved to Los Angeles for faster and more efficient treatment for his bone cancer. It’s a relief knowing that he will have a loving family to support him for the rest of his life.
The medical experts decided against removing Socrates’ hind leg due to his advanced age. It was the unanimous desire of all involved parties that Socrates should live his life without risking further harm to his body. Despite the challenges he faced, Socrates still found pleasure in walking.
