zephyr's page!
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Zephyr Bio
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About Zephyr
Zephyr is a sweet, affectionate dog who loves giving licks in exchange for chest rubs. As he’s gotten older, he’s become a bit hesitant with some strangers. He enjoys slow, thoughtful walks with plenty of pauses to reflect, so patience is key. Rushing him increases the chance of him losing his balance, and he sometimes falls hard. Zephyr prefers several short walks each day rather than long ones, perfect for someone who enjoys slow, meditative strolls. There’s a beautiful rock garden and waterfall just around the bend from our unit to enjoy on your walks together.
We often use a HelpEmUp halter to assist him during walks and when getting up in the apartment. He has trouble standing on his own, especially when lying on hard surfaces. If you're unfamiliar with the halter, we’re happy to show you how it works.
Around the house, Zephyr is pretty mellow as long as he’s comfortable and not in pain.
For Overnight CareZephyr may wake you up with panting or squeaking if he needs assistance. We know that caring for him overnight isn't for everyone, but he's worth it for the right person!
Here’s what he might need help with overnight:
Medications & Special Care
Walking Zephyr
Apartment & Mom's House Notes
Additional Info
Zephyr is a sweet, affectionate dog who loves giving licks in exchange for chest rubs. As he’s gotten older, he’s become a bit hesitant with some strangers. He enjoys slow, thoughtful walks with plenty of pauses to reflect, so patience is key. Rushing him increases the chance of him losing his balance, and he sometimes falls hard. Zephyr prefers several short walks each day rather than long ones, perfect for someone who enjoys slow, meditative strolls. There’s a beautiful rock garden and waterfall just around the bend from our unit to enjoy on your walks together.
We often use a HelpEmUp halter to assist him during walks and when getting up in the apartment. He has trouble standing on his own, especially when lying on hard surfaces. If you're unfamiliar with the halter, we’re happy to show you how it works.
Around the house, Zephyr is pretty mellow as long as he’s comfortable and not in pain.
For Overnight CareZephyr may wake you up with panting or squeaking if he needs assistance. We know that caring for him overnight isn't for everyone, but he's worth it for the right person!
Here’s what he might need help with overnight:
- Standing up: His back legs sometimes fail him, especially at night.
- Getting water: He might have difficulty reaching his water if his legs fail.
- Going outside: Zephyr usually needs to go outside around 4:45 AM. Fortunately, we live in a corner unit close to the exit, so this is manageable.
Medications & Special Care
- Gabapentin: Taken in the morning and before bed for arthritis, with an optional dose in the afternoon if he’s anxious.
- Denamarin: Given once daily on an empty stomach (for overnight care). Administer at least 2 hours after food and 1 hour before. Zephyr takes pills easily when wrapped in something tasty.
- Brain Treats: He gets 4-5 of these daily due to signs of early doggy dementia, and we believe they help.
- Water: Zephyr needs access to plenty of water due to signs of Cushing’s disease. His vet has advised never to restrict his water intake, even at night.
Walking Zephyr
- Morning Walks: Anytime between 6:30-10:00 AM, flexible based on the heat.
- Afternoon/Evening Walks: Between 3:00-8:00 PM. In the summer, only walk when the ground isn’t too hot.
- Walk Tips: Zephyr may circle around grass if he needs to go #2. He can also get stubborn and refuse to move, which may mean he’s tired or wants to pause for some meditative thinking. Use treats to distract him if you encounter other dogs or kids.
Apartment & Mom's House Notes
- Our Apartment: We’ll provide a fob, or you can arrange for the front office to loan one. Feed him 30-60 minutes before a walk. Food is in the living room, and his water bowls are in the living room and bedroom. Treats, treat bags, and poo bags are near the front door.
- Mom’s House (East Durham): Zephyr is sometimes at my mom’s place. She may feed him, but if he seems extra hungry, feel free to give him a scoop of food. Make sure his water is full.
Additional Info
- Other dogs and kids: Zephyr doesn’t get along well with dogs he doesn’t know and isn’t great with children either. He has arthritis, which makes walking difficult, especially on hills or curbs. He’s still potty-trained and will pant or squeak to let you know when he needs to go outside.
- Leaving Z alone: Zephyr can be left alone for 1-4 hours, but since he can’t stand on his own and might get sore, he needs someone around more frequently.